Automation Technician Lead - C Shift; (4:00pm to 4:30am, every other weekend required

Summary

The Automation Technician Lead provides on-shift technical leadership for facility automation systems and serves as the primary escalation point during automation-related production issues. As a working lead, this role performs advanced hands-on automation work while guiding and supporting technicians during complex troubleshooting events.

This position requires strong expertise in PLCs, HMIs, robotics, vision systems, and industrial networks to resolve issues impacting safety, quality, and uptime. The Automation Technician Lead partners with Automation leadership, Operations, and Maintenance to ensure reliable system performance and compliance with safety, food quality, and regulatory standards.

Responsibilities

• Maintain working knowledge of Automation Technician I-III responsibilities and provide coverage or hands-on support as needed
• Act as the primary on-shift escalation point for automation-related issues impacting production, quality, safety, or equipment reliability
• Lead and coordinate real-time troubleshooting efforts for complex PLC, HMI, robot, vision, and automation network issues
• Provide hands-on technical support for automation systems, including PLC logic, HMI configuration, motion control, robotics, and vision systems
• Direct and support automation technicians during major downtime events to ensure efficient issue resolution and minimal production impact
• Analyze recurring automation failures and recommend corrective actions to prevent future downtime or waste
• Support automation-related change management activities, including testing, validation, and documentation updates
• Develop, maintain, and redline automation documentation, including PLC programs, HMI applications, electrical drawings, sequences of operation, and troubleshooting guides
• Ensure automation work is performed in compliance with electrical codes, safety requirements, GMPs, and company automation standards
• Provide technical guidance, coaching, and mentorship to automation technicians to support skill development and consistent troubleshooting practices
• Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, and Quality teams to support equipment performance and continuous improvement initiatives
• Assist with commissioning, startup, and validation of new or modified automation systems
• Coordinate vendor and contractor support during automation troubleshooting or system upgrades when required
• Champion best practices in automation reliability, standardization, and system integration
• Follow all Chobani safety procedures, food safety requirements, and Good Manufacturing Practices

Requirements

• Maintain working knowledge of Automation Technician I-III responsibilities and provide coverage or hands-on support as needed
• 8+ years of electrical, controls, and automation experience in an industrial or manufacturing environment, or a BA/BS in a technical field
• Technical competency average score of 3.5 or greater
  Proven ability to lead automation troubleshooting efforts during high-impact production events
• Advanced knowledge of PLC troubleshooting and programming, preferably Allen Bradley (RSLogix
  500, RSLogix
  5000, Studio
  5000)
• Strong knowledge of HMI systems, preferably Rockwell Factory Talk View ME/SE And Ignition Vision or Perspective
• Working knowledge of robotics, vision systems, motion control, and industrial automation networks
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex automation issues and implement effective corrective actions
• Proven history of mentoring and supporting junior automation technicians
• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, production-driven environment
• High-performance evaluation history
• Other Skills or Training Requested
  • RSLogix
    500
  • RSLogix
    5000 / Studio
    5000
  • Factory Talk View ME/SE
  • Ignition Vision/Perspective
  • Industrial networking and SCADA experience a plus
  • Vision systems and robotics experience preferred
  • Ability to serve as technical lead during off-shift or limited-support hours

Chobani is a food maker with a mission of making high-quality and nutritious food accessible to more people, while elevating our communities and making the world a healthier place. In short: making good food for all. In support of this mission, Chobani is a purpose-driven, people-first, food-and-wellness-focused company, and has been since its founding in 2005 by Hamdi Ulukaya, an immigrant to the U.S. The Company manufactures yogurt, oat milk, and creamers - Chobani yogurt is America's No.1 yogurt brand, made with natural ingredients without artificial preservatives.

Following the 2023 acquisition of La Colombe, a leading coffee roaster with a shared commitment to quality, craftmanship and impact, the Company began selling cold-pressed espresso and lattes on tap at cafes nationwide, as well as Ready to Drink (RTD) coffee beverages  2025, Chobani acquired Daily Harvest, a modern brand offering consumers nutritious, delicious and convenient ready-to-make meals.

Chobani uses food as a force for good…