Automation Controls Technician- 3rd shift

About the role

Perdue Foods aims to become the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and retail and foodservice customers globally while changing the way animals are raised for food. As part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned business, we foster a culture built on teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters. The Automation Controls Technician plays a critical role in designing, programming, maintaining, and optimizing automated and robotic systems to keep operations running efficiently and reliably. This hands-on role partners with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot, improve control processes, support new technology implementations, and enhance existing equipment capabilities.

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 a food manufacturing environment.
• 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 Pallet Tool/Pick Tool and Programming (Fanuc Robotics).
• Experience with Line Tracking Setup (Non-Vision) (Fanuc Robotics).
• Experience with KAREL Programming (Fanuc Robotics).

Preferred Qualifications

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

Schedule

Night Shift: 2-2-3 schedule, 6:00 PM – 6:30 AM.

Physical Requirements & Environmental Factors

• Sitting, standing, walking, climbing, kneeling, reaching overhead and/or at shoulder level, lifting (up to 50 lbs.), and/or repetitive tasks throughout the day.
• Occasional movement to other offices or buildings.
• Day travel to nearby locations may be required.
• May need to access files, supplies, and equipment.
• Exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors, including metal and plastic grating surfaces.
• May be exposed to temperatures of 28°F to 100°F with both ambient and 100% humidity.
• May handle products from 25°F to 50°F.
• May be exposed to noise ranges of 50 dB to 110 dB.
• May be exposed to all chemicals used in poultry, food, and processing plants.