Automation Technician

Location: Taylor, MI
Company: Oakwood Group

Oakwood Group is seeking a hands‑on, solutions‑driven Automation Technician to support the integration, performance, and reliability of automated manufacturing systems across our operations.

This role plays a critical part in bridging controls, electrical systems, and production needs—working from initial equipment integration through launch and ongoing optimization. Success in this role will be measured by improvements in uptime, throughput, quality, and responsiveness to issues.

The Automation Technician will collaborate closely with internal teams, OEMs, and system integrators to deliver safe, scalable, and high‑performing automation solutions.

• Support automation and machine integration projects from concept through launch, including commissioning and production start‑up
• Perform hands‑on troubleshooting and optimization of automated production equipment
• Program and maintain PLCs, robotics, HMIs, sensors, drives, and industrial networks
• Diagnose and resolve electrical, controls, and system integration issues
• Partner with OEMs, integrators, and internal stakeholders to ensure successful system implementation
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts to enhance equipment reliability and performance
• Assist in developing and maintaining technical documentation, standards, and best practices
• Stay current on emerging automation technologies and industry trends

• Minimum 5 years of experience in an industrial automation or controls technician role OR completion of a 2‑year mechatronics/automation controls program
• Strong knowledge of electrical systems (24
  
  VDC, 120
  
  VAC, 208
  
  VAC, 480
  
  VAC)
• Experience working with robotics and automated systems in a manufacturing environment
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and ladder logic
• Experience with industrial sensors, pneumatics, and troubleshooting
• Strong problem‑solving and diagnostic skills
• Effective communication skills and ability to work cross‑functionally
• Willingness to work overtime as needed

• Experience with machine vision systems
• Experience with HMI/SCADA development
• Familiarity with OPC UA, MQTT, or other industrial data integration technologies

• Direct involvement in advanced automation and integration projects
• Exposure to cross‑functional engineering and manufacturing teams
• Opportunity to influence standardization and continuous improvement efforts
• Stable, growth‑oriented manufacturing environment

If you thrive in a hands‑on automation environment and enjoy solving complex technical challenges, we encourage you to apply and join the Oakwood team.