Automation Controls Specialist

Automation Controls Specialist – Olympia, WA

Georgia-Pacific seeks an experienced Automation Controls Specialist to ensure the proper operation of all automation and control systems that support the production of corrugated products at our Olympia, WA facility.

1203 Fones Road SE, Olympia, WA 98501

• Starting wage: $48.53 per hour
• Shift: Monday‑Friday dayshift; flexible availability for projects and training as needed
• Benefits: 401(k) match, health insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, tuition reimbursement

• Ensure proper operation of all automation and control systems and understand process control loops, instrumentation, and electrical infrastructure.
• Take overall ownership of assigned control‑engineering projects.
• Perform PLC programming and setup of HMI, VFD, controllers, and related components.
• Design automation solutions and test/commission control systems.
• Train internal customers to use and maintain systems.
• Identify and correct issues to reduce downtime.
• Lead and mentor technicians in maintaining and troubleshooting instrumentation, PLCs, VFDs, HMIs, and related equipment for brands such as Rexroth, Siemens, Allen‑Bradley, Schneider, Eaton, ABB, MHI, and Lenze.
• Serve as the Plant PLC Programmer Subject‑Matter Expert (SME) and support preventative and predictive maintenance programs.
• Apply applicable codes, regulations, reliability strategies, and OEM standards.
• Improve productivity and quality by anticipating and eliminating potential delays through planning and coordination of labor, parts, and equipment.
• Assist in developing and implementing reliability‑centered maintenance strategies.
• Follow electrical safe‑work practices (NFPA 70E, IEEE, company guidelines).
• Execute controls upgrades, drive replacements, PLC revisions, motor installations, and interlock changes.
• Provide emergency troubleshooting and be on‑call 24/7 for electrical emergencies.
• Work any shift, holidays, weekends, overtime, and rotating shifts as required.
• Perform physically demanding tasks such as lifting, walking, climbing, stooping, standing, pushing, and pulling.
• Maintain strict adherence to safety rules and regulations, including wearing safety equipment.

• Associate degree or higher in Process Control or Automation Technology.
• Three or more years of experience with industrial instrumentation, PLC programming, and/or automation & controls in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting instrumentation, PLCs, VFDs, HMIs, and related equipment for brands such as Rexroth, Siemens, Allen‑Bradley, Schneider, Eaton, ABB, MHI, Lenze, and three‑phase motor control systems.
• Strong knowledge of electrical distribution and drives.
• Commitment to safety and compliance with applicable regulations.

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Flexible spending and health savings accounts.
• Life and disability insurance.
• Retirement plans.
• Paid vacation and time off.
• Educational assistance, including tuition reimbursement.
• Possible reproductive assistance, paid parental leave, and adoption assistance (subject to eligibility).

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. All offers of employment are conditioned upon successfully passing a drug test. This employer uses E‑Verify. For additional information, visit