Automation & PLC Technician

Position Summary

As the Automation & PLC Technician, you will support the design, installation, programming, maintenance, and continuous improvement of manufacturing equipment and industrial control systems. This role is responsible for troubleshooting and optimizing PLCs, robotics, electrical systems, and automated manufacturing equipment to improve productivity, quality, uptime, and safety. The Automation & PLC Technician plays a critical role in supporting manufacturing operations, new product launches, continuous improvement initiatives, and maintaining world-class manufacturing standards.

Why Work at Rittal & Eplan LLC

• Competitive salary + bonus
• Benefits begin: 1st of the month after hire
• 401(k) Match
• Health & Wellness Benefits: - Paid Volunteer Time
• Fitness Reimbursement
• Pet Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Opportunity to work with advanced automation, robotics, and manufacturing technologies in a growing global organization
• Design, build, install, troubleshoot, and improve industrial control and PLC systems
• Program, maintain, and troubleshoot Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and Mitsubishi PLC platforms
• Support robotic systems including Fanuc, Motoman, ABB, and KUKA controllers and programming languages
• Develop, evaluate, and improve manufacturing processes utilizing knowledge of product design, materials, fabrication, and assembly methods
• Support and manage automation and continuous improvement projects
• Research and implement new technologies and processes to improve productivity, quality, and operational efficiency
• Lead and support new product introductions and manufacturing launches
• Provide input and technical guidance for machine control systems used in fabrication, welding, assembly, and paint operations
• Work with single-phase and three-phase power distribution systems
• Ensure compliance with National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements and applicable OSHA regulations
• Maintain and update electrical schematics, documentation, and machine records
• Aid the Maintenance Department with troubleshooting and resolving equipment failures
• Create and support technical training materials for maintenance troubleshooting and repair
• Participate in benchmarking and continuous improvement activities supporting world-class manufacturing initiatives
• Support budget planning and capital equipment improvement projects
• Achieve departmental targets related to quality, productivity, uptime, on-time delivery, and cost
• Maintain personal action trackers and provide regular project status updates
• Participate in production, engineering, staff, and project meetings
• Foster a positive workplace culture through collaboration, teamwork, and open communication
• Continuously develop technical knowledge and professional competencies
• Support all company safety and environmental initiatives
• Perform other duties as assigned

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Industrial Automation, Mechatronics, or related technical field preferred
• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering or Engineering Technology preferred
• Hands-on experience with industrial automation and control systems required
• Experience programming and troubleshooting PLCs preferred
• Experience with robotic automation systems preferred
• Manufacturing experience in sheet metal fabrication, welding, powder coating, stamping, or related processes preferred
• Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis skills
• Knowledge of industrial electrical systems and controls
• Understanding of PLC programming, HMI systems, sensors, drives, and industrial networks
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and technical drawings
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications
• Experience with AutoCAD and/or ProE preferred
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to spend extended periods on the manufacturing floor and in an office environment
• Frequently stand, walk, bend, twist, reach, and move throughout the facility
• Occasionally lift 25–50 pounds to waist level and up to 25 pounds above shoulder height
• Work in both office and manufacturing plant environments
• Exposure to production equipment, machinery, noise, and varying temperatures common in manufacturing facilities
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including: - Safety-toed footwear
• Safety glasses with side shields
• Hearing protection
• Additional PPE as required by the work area