Factory Automation Technician

Factory Automation Technician – Night Shift
Fuquay-Varina, NC – Onsite | 4x10s (Mon–Thu Nights)

We’re seeking a senior‑level Factory Automation Technician to support night‑shift operations for an industrial manufacturing client in Fuquay‑Varina, NC. This role is critical to keeping multiple assembly lines running and replaces the current night‑shift automation/controls technician.

If you’re an experienced Allen‑Bradley / Rockwell PLC technician who enjoys solving complex problems independently on nights in a high‑volume manufacturing environment, this is for you.

As the go‑to automation technician on night shift, you will:

• Support and troubleshoot Allen‑Bradley / Rockwell PLCs (Studio 5000/Logix family) and HMIs on multiple assembly lines.
• Perform advanced troubleshooting and minor code modifications: log into PLCs, pull tags, interpret ladder logic/structured text, and make safe online edits.
• Maintain and repair mistake‑proofing systems and devices, including:
  • PLCs and HMIs
  • Machine vision / camera systems
  • Light curtains, sensors, pick‑to‑light systems, smart torque tools
• Support production uptime by quickly diagnosing and resolving controls‑related issues affecting product flow.
• Collaborate with operations and manufacturing engineering to implement and maintain mistake‑proofing solutions.
• Assist with documentation (as needed): update logic/parameter notes, device lists, and other maintenance records to support shift handoffs.
• Respond to breakdowns and production‑stopping issues on nights with minimal supervision.

You’re comfortable being the person everyone calls when a line stops on night shift. You:

• Can independently log into Rockwell PLCs and HMIs, pull tags, read the code, and identify where problems likely live.
• Think beyond simple I/O swaps and approach problems logically from both hardware and software angles.
• Have real‑world experience with automation hardware and safety devices: light curtains, sensors, machine vision, torque tools, etc.
• Communicate clearly with production, maintenance, and day‑shift engineering so problems don’t repeat.

• 5+ years of hands‑on experience as an Automation/Controls/Maintenance Technician in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong, practical experience with Allen‑Bradley / Rockwell PLCs, including:
  • Studio 5000 / Logix 5000 (or similar)
  • Ability to read and troubleshoot ladder logic/structured text
  • Comfort making minor online edits and tag changes safely
• Proven success supporting night shift or off‑shift operations, working independently with limited onsite engineering support.
• Ability to diagnose both hardware and software issues across PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and safety devices.
• Strong troubleshooting mindset, attention to detail, and clear communication skills (verbal and written).

These are not strict requirements but will set you apart:

• Experience working with a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) or similar production IT systems integrated with PLCs.
• Experience with SQL/database tools for basic queries and data checks.
• Experience with machine vision (e.g., Presence Plus or similar camera systems).
• Familiarity with smart torque tools, pick‑to‑light, and other mistake‑proofing technologies.
• Knowledge of electrical systems from 480
  
  VAC down to 24
  
  VDC and electrical safety practices.
• Prior exposure to PFMEA, mistake‑proof planning, or continuous improvement initiatives.

• Shift: Night shift, Monday–Thursday, 10‑hour shifts
  • Typical hours: approximately 6:30 pm – 5:00 am
  • Fridays as needed, based on production/maintenance demands (generally less weekend work than many similar roles).
• Location:
  
  Onsite in Fuquay‑Varina, NC (commutable from Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, Garner, Fayetteville, and surrounding areas).
• Work Environment:
  High‑volume industrial manufacturing, assembly‑line production, hands‑on work on the plant floor.

Compensation: $70,000-$80,000 per year