PLC Programmer

At Harvest Food Group (HFG), our mission is to create products that make a positive impact on the world. HFG is a private equity–backed company headquartered in Naperville, Illinois, with a brand-new, state-of-the-art production facility in East Chicago, Indiana.

The Maintenance Programmer supports facility operations by programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and related control systems
. This role requires strong technical expertise across both software and hardware aspects of industrial automation while ensuring compliance with OSHA, GMP, and HACCP food safety standards
. The Maintenance Programmer plays a critical role in minimizing downtime, improving system reliability, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

• Design, write, test, and implement PLC programs (e.g., Allen-Bradley Control Logix, Compact Logix)

• Develop and maintain HMI/SCADA applications (e.g., Wonderware) to support production requirements

• Diagnose and repair electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and control system issues to minimize production interruptions

• Perform preventive maintenance (PMs) and equipment inspections to identify and address potential failures

• Collaborate with Engineering and Production teams to install, commission, and start up new equipment and automation systems

• Support system upgrades and expansions, including field wiring and validation

• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, software changes, backups, and electrical schematics

• Ensure all work complies with OSHA regulations, GMPs, and HACCP requirements

• Monitor system performance and analyze KPIs to identify opportunities for automation enhancements

• Recommend and implement process improvements, upgrades, and optimization initiatives

• Provide technical training and ongoing support to operations and maintenance personnel

• Assist with knowledge transfer related to automated systems and new equipment

• 3–5 years of PLC Programming experience required

• High school diploma or equivalent required

• Technical diploma or certification in industrial maintenance, automation, or electrical systems preferred

• Ability to read and write in English

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred

• Proficiency in PLC programming, setup, and troubleshooting

• Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills

• Ability to read and interpret electrical diagrams, schematics, and blueprints

• Moderate knowledge of safety regulations and safe work practices

• Experienced knowledge of Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) systems

• Understanding of food processing and manufacturing equipment
  , including:

  • HTST systems

  • CIP systems

  • Conveyors and pumps

  • Packaging machinery

• Prior experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment required

• Food or beverage manufacturing experience strongly preferred

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify root causes and implement corrective and preventive actions

• Effective communication skills to collaborate with Production, Quality Assurance, Engineering, and Sanitation teams

• Demonstrated teamwork and reliability in a fast-paced production environment

• Direct Hire with full benefits, PTO and 401K Match

• Play a key role in the launch of a next-generation facility

• Work with a collaborative and innovation-driven team

• Help deliver high-quality, safe, and delicious food products to consumers

• Contribute to the future of food manufacturing through automation and sustainability