Controls Technician

About the role

AEC is one of the most technically advanced designers and manufacturers of lightweight composite aerospace structures, subassemblies and components. For more than 50 years, AEC has innovated advanced composite solutions for defense and commercial industries in applications from large commercial transports to fighter jets and commercial and military rotorcraft. Our composite design and fabrication expertise can be found on many commercial platforms such as Boeing’s 7-series family, the Airbus A380 aircraft as well as Sikorsky S-76 helicopter. For defense programs, AEC provides a wide range of products including complete structural assemblies, flight critical components, primary and secondary structural elements for platforms such as the F-35 Lightning II, the CH-53K Heavy-lift Helicopter and the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM). AEC is committed to delivering high-quality, economical composite solutions to our customers.

Responsibilities

• Maintain, troubleshoot and install automated equipment which enables the manufacturing of unique composite products.
• Under the direction of the global engineering group, assist in modification and upgrades to equipment to ensure conformance with engineering design and performance specifications.
• Drive continuous improvements in the areas of safety, quality, delivery and cost.
• Ability to identify, maintain and troubleshoot AB RS LOGIX 5000’s and components.
• Ability to identify, maintain, and troubleshoot automation and mechanical components.
• Ability to identify, maintain, and troubleshoot power transmission systems including motor starters, Variable Frequency Drives, DC drives, and standard components.
• Hands-on experience and troubleshooting, including 480V 3-phase, 110 VAC, and 24VDC systems.
• Ability to interpret drawings both mechanical and electrical.
• Ability to identify, maintain, and utilize SCADA systems and KPI’s.
• Ability to train others with lesser skills.
• Ability to interpret and understand policies and procedures and relate them to others.
• Perform routine inspections, maintenance, and repairs on all production systems and equipment to minimize downtime and ensure uninterrupted production processes.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot electrical control issues, implementing effective solutions to minimize production disruptions and safety hazards.
• Lead and assist in the installation, modification, and commissioning of electrical systems and equipment, ensuring compliance with industry standards and safety protocols.
• Interpret and work from electrical schematics, blueprints, and technical manuals to understand system layouts and wiring diagrams.
• Detect failures/errors, analyze root causes and develop establish adequate solutions.
• Ability to analyze performance logs (logs, online tools)
• Controls Programming (Rockwell, Siemens, Labview, Yaskawa, GE Proficy)
• Familiarity with time based and relational database systems.
• Ability to program and troubleshoot electrical control systems.
• Adhere to all safety regulations and protocols, ensuring that automation systems are in compliance with industry and company safety standards.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to plan and execute automation system upgrades, ensuring optimal performance and operational efficiency.
• Maintain accurate records of all electrical work, including repairs, installations, and modifications, and update documentation as needed.
• Respond promptly to production emergencies and breakdowns, providing effective solutions to minimize production downtime.

Requirements

• AS Degree or Technical College
• 5-7 years of hands-on troubleshooting of PLC and automated controls maintenance
• Proficiency in reading electrical schematics and blueprints
• Strong knowledge of electrical codes, regulations, and safety standards
• Experience with aerospace manufacturing or a similar precision industry is a plus
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Strong communication and leadership abilities
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment

Skills

• Technical Understanding
• Technical Zeal
• Deals with Uncertainty
• Advanced Safety
• Power Tools
• Attention to Detail
• Flexibility in work schedule as job requires
• Little or no supervision required
• Job Knowledge
• Productivity and computer skills

Working Conditions

Indoor production environment, working outside minimally for oversight of the power distribution network, adequate lighting, comfortable temperatures, some work outside may be required. Occasional exposure to moderate noise and machinery moving parts. Ability to work 24/7 schedule/overtime as required.

Physical requirements

• Frequent repetitive hand movements, using hand tools and test equipment.
• Frequently remain in a stationary position up to 75% of the time
• Frequently move about the facility indoors as well as outdoors to make repairs, etc.
• Constantly positions self to repair/build equipment and/or facility.
• Frequently ascends/descends a ladder to service equipment and/or complete a building repair.
• Able to lift 50 lbs., work overhead, climb internal and external ladders, walk long distances, and stand for extended periods.
• Bending, stooping, and kneeling for extended periods is required.
• Must work in all climates as required for the business needs.

Experience/Education

• High School Diploma or recognized equivalent