Controls Technician I
About The Role
U.S. Person Required
Travel Percentage: 0%
Relocation Available: No
What You’ll Do
The Controls Technician designs, installs, programs, troubleshoots, and maintains automation controls systems, PLCs, HMIs, and industrial control networks across Hitchiner's manufacturing operations. This role provides specialized expertise in industrial controls that enables reliable automated production and supports continuous improvement of automation capability.
Job Duties & Responsibilities
Troubleshoot and repair PLC programs, HMI systems, servo drives, variable frequency drives, and industrial control system faults to restore automated production equipment. (35%)
Program, modify, and optimize PLC and HMI software for production equipment improvements, new machine installations, and process enhancement projects. (25%)
Maintain controls documentation including PLC program backups, wiring diagrams, instrument loop diagrams, and controls system records. (15%)
Install and commission control system hardware including panels, sensors, actuators, networks, and associated wiring for new and modified equipment. (15%)
Support maintenance and operations teams on controls-related issues and provide training on HMI operation and basic controls troubleshooting. (10%)
Required Qualifications
Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or vocational certification in electrical/controls technology preferred.
Experience: Basic PLC knowledge and electrical background required for Level 1; level advancement based on demonstrated controls proficiency.
Certifications: None required; Rockwell, Siemens, or equivalent PLC certifications beneficial; NFPA 70E compliance required.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Proficiency with Rockwell, Siemens, or equivalent PLC platforms for programming and troubleshooting.
Knowledge of industrial control networks including EtherNet/IP, Profibus, DeviceNet, and Modbus.
Skill in HMI development and troubleshooting using FactoryTalk, WinCC, or equivalent platforms.
Knowledge of servo drives, VFDs, and motion control systems for industrial manufacturing equipment.
Electrical safety knowledge including NFPA 70E arc flash requirements and lockout/tagout procedures.
Ability to read and develop electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control system documentation.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Environment: Control panels, machine environments, and office-based programming; full manufacturing floor access.
Physical demands: Panel work including wiring and component installation; machine access for troubleshooting and lifting up to 50 lbs.
Vision: 20/20 or correctable.
PPE: Safety glasses, safety-toed boots, arc flash PPE (as required by NFPA 70E), fall protection, and applicable production area PPE.
About Hitchiner
Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Milford, New Hampshire, Hitchiner Manufacturing is the premier supplier of high-volume, complex thin-wall investment castings and fully finished casting-based components to the automotive, aerospace and defense markets.
Employee Benefits
Full time employees may elect to participate in a number of benefit programs, including Hitchiner’s Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans, flexible spending accounts, and 401(k) Employee Retirement Contribution Plan.
The Company provides employees with basic company-paid short-term, long-term, and basic life/AD&D insurance.
Employees also have access to education and tuition reimbursement, wellness rewards, Employee Assistance Program, and our free onsite fitness center.
Additional Information
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.
Hitchiner Manufacturing is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status.
Who is considered a U.S. Person?
A U.S. Person can be one of the following: U.S. Citizen, a U.S. lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder), a refugee or asylee admitted under the U.S. law, or certain protected individuals under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).