Controls Specialist

About the role

Join our team at our Marietta, GA, plant, home to the production of quality tea products. We are seeking a Controls Specialist to provide hands-on technical expertise supporting plant control systems, automation, and production process equipment. In this critical role, you will support the maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of control systems and automated equipment across the facility, while partnering closely with Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient plant performance. You will also play a key role in supporting capital project installations, equipment startups, and controls and automation training initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLC-based control systems, including Siemens, Allen-Bradley platforms.
• Diagnose and resolve electrical, automation, and controls-related issues affecting production equipment and plant systems.
• Troubleshoot and support tea packaging machines, tea delivery systems, dust collection equipment, blending systems, robotics, and other auxiliary equipment.
• Support capital projects by participating in equipment installation, commissioning, and startup activities.
• Absorb and execute established startup protocols, including Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), and Commissioning, Qualification, and Verification (CQV) activities.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams to improve equipment reliability and production efficiency.
• Provide technical guidance and training related to automation and control systems.

Requirements

• Associate degree or higher in Electrical/Electronic Technology, Automation, Robotics, Mechatronics, or related technical field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably involving high-speed consumer goods packaging and pneumatic conveying systems for powdered products.
• Strong knowledge of PLC programming, troubleshooting, and system integration.
• Experience with Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), servo systems, and industrial communication networks/protocols.
• Ability to read, interpret, and troubleshoot electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, Project, and internet-based tools.
• Experience with mechanical systems associated with high-speed packaging equipment.
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD.
• Project management experience or exposure to capital project execution.
• Experience supporting robotics and automated material handling systems.

Qualifications

• Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional overtime.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Skills

• PLC programming and troubleshooting.
• Electrical and automation systems.
• Tea packaging machines and conveying systems.
• Capital project execution.
• Robotics and automated material handling systems.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and benefits program with no waiting period – you’re eligible from your first day!
• 401(k) program with 5% employer match and 100% vesting as soon as you enroll.
• Comprehensive paid time off opportunities, including immediate access to four weeks of vacation, five sick days, parental leave and 11 company holidays (including two floating holidays).
• DevelopU – a robust educational platform with more than 10,000 free courses to support your career development.
• Inclusive working environment with opportunities to build meaningful work relationships with a diverse group of professionals.
• Access to wellness and employee assistance programs.

Pay

Competitive compensation and benefits program with no waiting period – you’re eligible from your first day!

Schedule

This is a full-time, on-site role on First Shift. Occasional flexibility is required to support alternate shifts.