Automation Engineering Technician

About the role

At Distribution International, you will be part of a diverse and inclusive team that reflects our values of integrity and innovation by delivering solutions that make a difference in the communities we serve. Here, you are part of a company that rewards your contributions and encourages you to take ownership of your career.

Responsibilities

• Ensure equipment design and installation complies with OSHA and internal safety standards.
• Promote a strong safety culture and lead by example.
• Ensure all installations “meet or exceed legislative requirements.”
• Aid in installing new equipment using circuit diagrams and engineering instructions.
• Build and wire control cabinets; set up motors, sensors, pneumatics, hydraulics, and mechanical systems.
• Calibrate and commission equipment; support operator training.
• Promote continuous improvement across products and processes.
• Make minor PLC adjustments and design simple control systems.
• Fabricate parts using tools such as 3D printers and welders.
• Identify equipment issues and propose upgrades.
• Prepare basic documentation (wiring diagrams, manuals, troubleshooting guides).
• Diagnose and repair electrical, mechanical, control, and computer system issues.
• Replace damaged components and perform preventive maintenance when possible.
• Document maintenance activities and educate operations staff on failure risks and safe responses.

Requirements

• Read and interpret technical drawings and schematics.
• Diagnose electrical and mechanical faults using testing equipment.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work under pressure.
• Hands-on fabrication skills (welding, wiring, cutting, sanding).
• Strong aptitude for automation, electronics, and mechanical systems.
• Knowledge of electrical principles, control systems, sensors, actuators, motors, controllers.
• Knowledge of mechanical systems and industrial fabrication processes.
• Knowledge of workplace safety standards, CSA/UL requirements.
• Basic computer proficiency (Windows, Office).

Qualifications

• Diploma in instrumentation or electronics, or journeyman electrician (preferred).
• Training in CSA/UL standards, PLC programming, and OHS is beneficial.
• 5+ years in industrial automation, electronics, or electrical work.
• Experience with industrial controls, machinery assembly, and working with engineers.
• Experience with industrial controls setup and wiring.
• Experience with building/assembling machinery and various automation systems.
• Experience working with engineers, machine designs, and maintenance plans.
• Experience working in industrial settings.

Skills

• Read and interpret technical drawings and schematics.
• Diagnose electrical and mechanical faults using testing equipment.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work under pressure.
• Hands-on fabrication skills (welding, wiring, cutting, sanding).
• Strong aptitude for automation, electronics, and mechanical systems.
• Knowledge of electrical principles, control systems, sensors, actuators, motors, controllers.
• Knowledge of mechanical systems and industrial fabrication processes.
• Knowledge of workplace safety standards, CSA/UL requirements.
• Basic computer proficiency (Windows, Office).

Benefits

Actual offers depend on factors such as location, experience, skills, and market data. This position may also offer variable compensation.

Pay

The annual salary range for this position is $20.00 - $40.00. Actual offers depend on factors such as location, experience, skills, and market data.

Schedule

Travel up to 40% of the time (schedule to be set according to business needs, but generally flexible around incumbents needs).

Qualifications

• Must be able to travel up to 40% of the time (schedule to be set according to business needs, but generally flexible around incumbents needs).
• Deliver high-quality work under tight timelines and machine-downtime pressures.
• Maintain professionalism with staff, suppliers, and customers.

Physical Requirements

• Split between work in the office and shop floor.
• Exposure to “noisy, dusty, and hot environments.”
• Requires physical ability to assemble and repair equipment in confined or difficult spaces.
• Tolerate extended periods of sitting during travel.

Relationship to Other Positions or Contacts

• Reporting Position: Engineering Manager
• Subordinate Staff: None

Equal Opportunity Employer

We value diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender or sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.