Automation Supervisor

About the role

Come join the Tillamook Team, one of the fastest-growing dairy brands in the US, where we Play to Win to create over 200 dairy products in 7 different categories: cheese, ice cream, yogurt, sour cream, butter, cream cheese and frozen meals. Our Uncompromising Quality has led us to become the #1 Cheddar, #2 Cream Cheese and #3 Family Size Ice Cream brand, but we’re not stopping there. We’re loading up for our best years to come and want you to join us. As a farmer-owned cooperative since 1909, we know that being Good Stewards for our stakeholders and doing a little extra always pays off. We’re looking for team members with a One Team and Genuine Care mindset who are inspired to share the delight of the Tillamook brand with each other and others every day.

Responsibilities

• The Automation Supervisor is the plant expert for industrial controls, automation and has an in-depth understanding of the physical operation of the process equipment, mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, and control systems.
• Works with the plant’s Controls Engineer to supervise and train the plant Automation and Controls Technicians and maintenance technicians.
• Provides technical support to manufacturing operations; improves machine and equipment control; troubleshoots operating problems; designs and implements capital improvements; oversees PLC, HMI and plant SCADA hardware and software systems; and trains production operators in new or modified process control operations.
• In cooperation with plant’s Controls Engineer, oversees, installs and programs all aspects of plant PLC / HMI and SCADA systems organization to maintain and improve machine and equipment control:
  • Maintain control system documentation.
  • Upgrade and maintain Software tools and applications.
  • Maintain hardware revision levels to accommodate software upgrades.
  • Implement long-term strategy and plan for control systems as defined by automation manager.
  • Implement standards and guidelines for plant control systems as defined by automation manager.
  • Oversee/maintain and modify programming for utilities, process and CIP systems.
  • Collaborate with Information Technology to integrate PLC, WonderWare, and other systems (Ignition).
  • Align information in enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, with actual process on work floor.
  • Oversee and maintain PLC and HMI network systems, and collaborate with IT to manage PLC and HMI communications across company Ethernet/fiber optic network.
  • Train select maintenance technicians in plant PLC systems to aid in troubleshooting and maintenance.
  • Designs and implements small capital improvements to PLC and HMI systems; Assist in planning and implementation of long-range facility/process expansions.
  • Oversee integration of new capital equipment purchases with existing plant control systems.
  • Manage selected capital projects, as directed by Automation Manager.
  • Guide/direct the work of outside PLC and controls contractors.
  • Oversee and or Setup and install instruments and control system components.
  • Oversees and completes process work orders in a timely fashion.
• Provides technical support to plant manufacturing operations:
  • Be the plant expert for troubleshooting existing plant process and control systems.
  • Solve problems in plant control system and plant operations, including upgrading and retrofitting equipment and facilities.
  • Assist in installation of new equipment by taking the lead in control system aspects of installation.
  • Trains engineering and production employees on existing and new processes.
  • Coordinate with automation manager to plan, deliver, and document training.
  • Assist in development of training materials.
  • Present training materials in one-on-one and group settings.

Requirements

• Associates degree in Engineering, Computer Science or related field.
• 5+ years’ experience in food or beverage manufacturing environment, including hands-on maintenance experience.
• Experience providing PLC & HMI programming, hardware installation, and software installation.
• Experience performing instrument and control loop tuning and calibration.
• Knowledge of Allen Bradley and Siemens PLC control systems and WonderWare & Ignition SCADA systems.
• Experience with ERP, WMS, CMMS, and calibration management systems strongly desired.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with employees, supervisors and the general public.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Must be computer literate with basic knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and SQL.
• Must be a team player and be able to interact with staff at all levels of the company.