Automation Technician

At West, we’re a dedicated team connected by a purpose to improve patient lives—a mission that has been at the center of our company for more than a century. Our story began when Herman O. West solved the problem of supplying penicillin in mass quantities to the U.S. Government during World War II. Today, we deliver thousands of life-saving and life-enhancing injectable medicines to millions of patients daily. There’s no better place to join an inclusive community of professionals with opportunities for lifelong learning, growth, and development. We empower the physical, mental, emotional, and financial health of our team members and their families through comprehensive benefit programs. We also believe in giving back to help those in need in the communities where we live and work, and we are committed to sustainability efforts that create a healthier environment and planet.

About the role

In this role, you will maintain operational efficiency of automated assembly lines by performing preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairing automation equipment. You will provide support to shift operations as requested by the shift leader or production manager and develop long-term predictive and preventative maintenance plans for all assembly equipment.

Responsibilities

• Provide emergency and unscheduled repairs of all automation equipment during production, as well as perform scheduled preventive maintenance.
• Assist with installation, setup, and validation of incoming automation equipment.
• Diagnose problems, replace or repair parts, test, and adjust equipment.
• Interface with PLC controls for troubleshooting and process optimization.
• Work with Control Engineers on special projects, process improvements, and updates.
• Assist maintenance technicians with repairs outside of the automation scope as needed.
• Maintain spare parts inventory with proper cataloging of parts.
• Provide timely notification to shift leads regarding maintenance issues and downtime.
• Review line history and documentation to enhance line efficiencies.
• Follow escalation plans to minimize downtime.
• Actively participate in and comply with all West Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) programs and regulations.
• Maintain a neat and orderly work environment in accordance with the West 5S program.
• Assist with training and development of personnel at all levels on new processes or systems introduced to the company.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED required; Trade or Vocational School preferred.
• One (1) year certificate from a technical school or college in automation, electrical, pneumatic, or mechanical fields; or a minimum of 3-5 years’ on-the-job experience related to plant automation; or a combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience related to plant automation; or a combination of education and experience.
• PLC troubleshooting experience required.
• Ability to comply with company safety and quality policies at all times.
• Support and contribute to Lean Sigma programs and activities.

Skills

• Awareness of relevant Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) as per company policy.
• Ability to work near moving mechanical parts and in high, precarious places.
• Exposure to fumes, airborne particles, risk of electrical shock, and vibration.
• Moderate to loud noise levels on the manufacturing floor; hearing protection required.
• Exposure to heat and cold.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with minimal direction or supervision.
• Strong mental skills, including communication, decision-making, data interpretation, reading, writing, organization, and problem-solving.

Physical Requirements

• Medium-exertion role requiring up to 50lb/22kg of force occasionally, up to 20lbs/9kg frequently, and up to 10lbs/4kg constantly to move objects.
• Frequent use of hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Specific vision abilities required: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Schedule

This position follows a 12-hour night shift schedule on a 2-2-3-2 rotation (5:45 AM – 6:00 PM).

Travel Requirements

Up to 10% travel, equivalent to approximately 26 business days per year.