Automation Specialist

This position reports to the Supervisor, is located in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, and is classified as non-exempt, full-time regular employment.

About the Company

Generous Brands is dedicated to inspiring people to thrive through the power of vibrant nutrition with leading brands: Bolthouse Farms (chilled juice, smoothies, shakes, and protein drinks), Health-Ade (kombucha), Evolution Fresh (cold-pressed juice), and SAMBAZON (açaí beverages). The company operates North American facilities in Southern California and the Greater Chicago Area.

Responsibilities

• Assist with process improvements for production software and equipment with limited supervision.
• Maintain and troubleshoot plant automation systems; implement new automation projects.
• Perform periodic maintenance of automation control systems and hardware.
• Troubleshoot electrical and instrumentation issues for packaging, process equipment, transfer systems, ancillary facility equipment, and building automation systems.
• Demonstrate and uphold safety as a core value; reinforce and coach others on safety essentials.
• Follow established safety guidelines, including PPE and Lock Out Tag Out procedures.
• Support food safety, legality, and quality programs through adherence to good manufacturing practices, preventive controls, and product specifications.
• Monitor and document quality measures using analytical tools.
• Maintain regular and consistent attendance and punctuality.
• Contribute to continuous improvement projects and new equipment implementations.
• Assist Engineering with updates, changes, and testing of new modifications.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of business objectives and Evolution Fresh Mission & Values.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED; or equivalent combination of education and experience (e.g., relevant U.S. military service, technical education, minimum 2 years of automation experience).
• Proficiency with one or more SCADA/HMI development software suites.
• Understanding of test instruments, schematics, and technical drawings.
• Proficiency with industrial automation programming, including PLC ladder logic modification, troubleshooting, and Rockwell PLC programming languages.
• Knowledge of Rockwell Automation products (PLCs, VFDs, Servos, field instrumentation).
• Proficiency with process control instruments (motor drives, valves, relays, measurement transducers for pressure, temperature, flow, and other sensors).
• Knowledge of industrial networking theory and hardware (fiber, wired, wireless systems) using protocols such as Control Net, Device Net, Ethernet I/P, ASI, Modbus.
• Familiarity with physical and virtual server architecture.
• Ability to work in accordance with safety, quality, and sanitation standards.
• Ability to work variable shifts to support business needs.
• Strong communication skills (oral and written).
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and in a diverse team environment.
• Attention to detail and basic math skills.

Qualifications

• 3 years of relevant experience in a similar industry.
• 3 years of PLC programming specific to Rockwell Automation software suite.
• 3 years of electrical troubleshooting.
• 3 years of general industrial maintenance and electrical systems.
• 1 year of interpreting mechanical and electrical drawings, including original equipment manuals.
• 1 year of knowledge of applicable electrical codes (NEC 70, NFPA 70E).

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or direct relevant experience in Industrial Controls, Industrial Automation, Instrumentation, Computer Science, or Network Architecture.
• Technical leadership with ability to coach and mentor team members.
• Familiarity with food and beverage operations.
• Knowledge of AC/DC theory, Ohm’s Law, transformers, power supplies, and troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with ANSI/ISA S88 standards.
• Knowledge of networked manufacturing printers.
• Experience with SCADA systems (WonderWare In-Touch, Archestra, RS Logix, Ignition Suite).
• Knowledge of database applications (SQL Server).
• Basic troubleshooting of industrial robotics programming (e.g., ABB robotics).
• Experience with AutoCAD for electrical documentation (panel, equipment, PID drawings).
• Familiarity with food safety regulatory requirements (FDA Preventive Controls for Human Food, GFSI standards such as BRC or SQF).

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift and/or carry up to 50 lbs. occasionally.
• Ability to grasp with fingers and hand for extended periods in repetitive motion.
• Ability to use 3-points of contact when climbing or descending stairs.
• Ability to stoop, bend at knees, and/or crouch repetitively.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to work in environmental exposures including freezer conditions (34°F or below), noise, cold, wet, or humid conditions.
• Occasional exposure to fumes, airborne particles, toxic, or caustic chemicals.
• Occasional exposure to moving mechanical parts and equipment (e.g., forklifts, pallet jacks).

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Group life and AD&D insurance.
• Voluntary life and AD&D insurance.
• Group short-term and long-term disability.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Paid time off.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Employee assistance program.
• Gym membership discounts.

Pay

$34.50 - $41.25 per hour.

Schedule

3rd Shift – Monday through Friday, 10:00 PM to 6:30 AM. Weekends, overtime, holidays, and rotating shifts may be required based on business needs.