Automation Control Technician - 3rd Shift

Perdue Foods, part of Perdue Farms—a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business—aims to become the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for global consumers, retail, and foodservice customers while transforming animal-raising practices. The company fosters a culture of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice contributes to shared goals, and associates are valued, supported, and inspired to make an impact.

About the role

Bring automation to life on the manufacturing floor. The Automation Controls Technician designs, programs, maintains, and optimizes automated and robotic systems to ensure efficient, reliable operations. This hands-on role partners with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot control processes, implement new technologies, and enhance equipment capabilities, driving innovation, uptime, and continuous improvement. Position is located onsite at the Harvest facility in Perry, Georgia.

Schedule: 3rd Shift: Rotating, 6:00pm-6:00am

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and implement automated control systems.
• Troubleshoot and repair electrical and mechanical issues in automated/robotic equipment.
• Troubleshoot and perform repairs on AC/DC/Servo Motor Control Systems and Instrumentation Control Systems.
• Conduct regular maintenance and inspections of control systems and equipment.
• Document maintenance activities, repairs, and system changes.
• Respond to emergency breakdowns and troubleshoot control system issues promptly.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to design and integrate automation/robotic solutions.
• Test and calibrate instrumentation and control devices.
• Contribute to the development of preventive maintenance schedules for automation equipment.
• Monitor and optimize control system performance.
• Install and configure/program industrial robots and robotic systems.
• Program PLCs and HMIs.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards, including robotic equipment safety.
• Provide training and support to operators on control system usage.
• Mentor and train other Maintenance Technicians.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED.
• 8+ years of experience in industrial automation, controls systems, PLC programming, and troubleshooting, preferably in food manufacturing.
• Strong understanding and practical application of PLCs, HMI systems, robotics, and industrial control systems.
• Industry certifications such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP) or Certified Control Systems Technician are advantageous.
• In-depth knowledge of electrical systems, control devices, instrumentation, and process control.
• Maintain Perdue Farms QEW Certification.
• Commitment to continuous learning to achieve increasing levels of expertise.
• Fanuc Certified Service Engineer (CSE) or Master Certified preferred.
• Experience with Fanuc Robotics: Pallet Tool/Pick Tool and Programming, Line Tracking Setup (Non-Vision), and KAREL Programming.

Preferred Qualifications

• 2-year Technical Degree in Mechatronics/Robotics or equivalent combination of experience and education.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors

• Sitting, standing, walking, climbing, kneeling, reaching overhead and/or at shoulder level, lifting (50 lbs.), and/or repetitive tasks throughout the day.
• Occasional movement to other offices or buildings; day travel to nearby locations may be required.
• Access to files, supplies, and equipment as needed.

When in a plant environment:

• Exposure to wet and moist floors, including metal and plastic grating surfaces.
• Temperatures ranging from 28°F to 100°F with ambient and 100% humidity.
• Handling products from 25°F to 50°F.
• Noise levels from 50 dB to 110 dB.
• Exposure to chemicals used in poultry, food, and processing plants.