Controls Technician

Job Title:

Controls Technician - Automated Manufacturing Systems

Job Description

This role plays a key part in the electrical design, development, and startup of custom automated manufacturing systems, including robotic welding cells, advanced tooling and fixtures, and integrated automation equipment used by manufacturers around the world. You will support experienced controls engineers, take ownership of control system tasks, and help implement solutions on the shop floor to ensure projects are delivered safely, reliably, on time, and within budget.

The position offers extensive hands-on experience with cutting-edge industrial automation, exposure to diverse and highly engineered systems, and the opportunity to see your work directly impact the final equipment delivered to customers.

Responsibilities

+ Take ownership of assigned control system tasks to support successful project execution on time and within budget.

+ Design, debug, and validate safe, reliable PLC and HMI control programs that meet internal standards and customer requirements.

+ Collaborate closely with robotic programmers, HMI developers, and mechanical engineering teams to ensure full system functionality and seamless integration.

+ Debug electrical and mechanical systems during machine build, startup, and commissioning activities.

+ Ensure equipment meets internal run-off requirements, safety inspections, and quality standards prior to shipment.

+ Maintain high equipment quality and support continuous improvement initiatives across projects and processes.

+ Communicate clearly and proactively with project managers and supervisors regarding technical issues, risks, and recommended solutions.

+ Support on-site startup activities, system installation, commissioning, servicing, and customer acceptance as required.

+ Travel to customer sites as needed to support project execution, with travel up to approximately 50% (typically 25%-30% in practice).

+ Assist in implementing designs and instructions from more experienced engineers on the shop floor, helping to translate engineering concepts into practical, working systems.

+ Contribute to troubleshooting and improving complex automation equipment in a hands-on, field-based environment.

+ Work collaboratively within a team of programmers and technicians to deliver robust, high-performing automation solutions.

Essential Skills

+ Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electro-Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field, OR an Associate's degree with relevant hands-on experience.

+ Exposure to an industrial or automation environment through work experience, internships, or academic projects.

+ Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and drawings accurately.

+

Experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs or Fanuc controls, including school projects or entry-level hands-on experience.

+ Fundamental PLC troubleshooting skills in an industrial or automation context.

+ Basic wiring knowledge and ability to work safely with electrical systems.

+ Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to debug electrical and mechanical systems.

+ Effective communication skills to clearly convey technical information to project managers, supervisors, and team members.

+ Willingness and ability to travel up to approximately 50% of the time to support installations, commissioning, and service activities.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+ Hands-on experience supporting custom-engineered automation or robotic systems, even at an entry level, is highly beneficial.

+ Exposure to robotic welding cells, advanced tooling, fixtures, or integrated automation equipment is a plus.

+ Experience participating in academic or professional "science project"-style initiatives that required creative problem-solving and experimentation.

+ Comfort working in a fast-paced environment where no two projects are the same and requirements can evolve.

+ Interest in working on advanced automation, robotic welding, and cutting systems that are engineered from the ground up.

+ Desire to grow under the guidance of experienced controls engineers and automation specialists, taking direction and turning it into…