Automation Technician

Job Summary

The Automation Technician supports the design, maintenance, and troubleshooting of control systems for automated machinery and equipment in a battery manufacturing environment. This role focuses on fault recovery, pneumatic systems, robotics, and Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)-based controls to ensure optimal equipment performance and uptime. The Automation Technician collaborates with engineering, maintenance, and production teams to implement improvements and support new product introductions.

Responsibilities

• Rapidly diagnose and recover from equipment faults to minimize downtime.
• Troubleshoot and repair Allen Bradley PLCs, Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), sensors, and control hardware.
• Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for recurring issues.
• Maintain and troubleshoot electrical system components, sensors, drives, motors, contactors, safely utilizing proper tools and equipment.
• Interpret electrical schematics and support system upgrades safely.
• Interact with Information Technology (IT) department as needed to maintain production uptime.
• Maintain and troubleshoot pneumatic components including valves, actuators, and air handling systems.
• Interpret pneumatic schematics and support system upgrades.
• The ability to connect and troubleshoot Keyence and Cognex vision applications.
• Operate and maintain Fanuc robots, including fault recovery and basic programming.
• Support robot manipulation and teach pendant operations.
• Program Allen Bradley PLCs and other control devices under engineering guidance.
• Monitor and troubleshoot HMI settings to support production needs.
• Support barcode system troubleshooting and maintenance for both Keyence and Cognex systems.
• Participate in equipment installations, capability studies, and validation of new or modified processes.
• Identify and implement improvement projects focused on cost reduction and efficiency.
• Ensure equipment meets applicable electrical and safety standards.
• Participate in work instruction reviews.
• Provide technical support to production operators and maintenance teams.
• Support off-shift work when required.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Maintenance Manager.
• Predictable and reliable attendance.

Position Qualifications

• Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Controls Engineering, or related field; equivalent experience in controls, automation, and/or Fanuc robots.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in controls or automation within a manufacturing environment.
• Proficient in Allen Bradley PLCs (RSLogix 5000/Studio 5000), Fanuc robots, and pneumatic systems.
• Working knowledge of HMI interfaces, Keyence sensors/cameras, SQL databases, and MES platforms.
• Ability to troubleshoot and maintain basic automation networking systems.
• Basic skills in maintaining and troubleshooting lineside printers.
• Fundamental understanding of Three-Dimensional (3D) modeling and implementation.
• Willingness to learn and apply MES concepts and SQL Server database implementation and maintenance.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical and pneumatic schematics.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Experience with Technical Specification (TS) 16949 and International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 14001 standards is preferred.
• Competent in Microsoft Office applications.

Key Competencies

• Focus on Quality: Drives work results with a quality focus in actions and results.
• Decision Making & Analysis: Makes sound decisions based upon a mixture of data-driven analysis, expertise, experience, and judgment; collects relevant information, seeks input from others, and identifies connections and/or root causes of problems.
• Continual Improvement: Displays a consistent orientation toward producing the highest quality products or services, while keeping a focus on sustainability.
• Takes Initiative: Exhibits strong drive for results and success; conveys a sense of urgency and drives issues to closure; persists despite obstacles and opposition.
• Teamwork: Works cooperatively with others to accomplish team goals and organizational objectives.
• Communications: Exchanges thoughts, feelings and information effectively.

Physical Requirements / Working Conditions

• Frequent movement in industrial environments; ability to lift up to 30 pounds (lbs.).
• Visual acuity for inspecting equipment and reading schematics.
• Exposure to high-voltage equipment and moderately loud environments.
• Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including safety glasses and safety shoes is mandatory.
• Ability to bend, lift, stretch, stoop, push, pull, and carry as needed.
• May require travel to vendor or integrator sites.