Maintenance Technician PLC

About the role

At Forte Opening Solutions, we create pathways to possibilities by empowering our employees to shape the future of our industry. Join a team where craftsmanship meets cutting-edge technology, and where your ideas can open new doors. Together, we build not just products, but a culture of excellence and collaboration.

The PLC Technician programs, troubleshoots, repairs, and installs electronic and programmable logic controllers, circuitry, and PC boards into plant manufacturing equipment and machinery. This role works closely with and trains maintenance electricians to perform daily tasks.

Responsibilities

• Perform electrical, mechanical, or communications/networking troubleshooting to determine problems and resolution.
• Proactively conduct preventive maintenance inspections and perform required preventive maintenance duties in accordance with recommended schedules.
• Provide support for all electronic format data, process parameters, hardware, and systems such as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), servo motion controllers, HMIs, drives, robotics, intelligent sensors and devices, PC-based systems, production data networks, and SCADA level systems.
• Perform setup, calibrations, and preventative maintenance on production equipment.
• Provide input and direct activities of operators and inspections related to plant procedures and processes.
• Work with equipment OEMs to resolve PLC-related equipment issues.
• Enforce process standard operating procedures and process disciplines.
• Create CAGs (corrective action guidelines).
• Use native software development programs, actively monitor, run histograms, troubleshoot, or make controlled edits to PC/PLC programs or machine configurations to troubleshoot or improve operations.
• Perform PC and PLC-based control systems configuration, start-up, and maintenance support.
• Develop and modify RS Logix PLC software, Beckhoff PC-based controls for manufacturing equipment.
• Maintain records of all program changes, assembly drawings, and product specifications.
• Mentor and train maintenance personnel on PLCs, HMIs, drives, and PC-based controls.
• Troubleshoot both hardware and software systems that control the process machinery, including high-power systems up to 480-volt 3 phase and control circuits of 24 volts and 200 volts, 4 to 20 milliamp, and 0 to 10 volts.
• Perform all necessary routine maintenance, including planning and tracking, utilizing maintenance management software.
• Instruct production operators on equipment use and proper operation.
• Perform preventative maintenance procedures on building mechanical equipment on a scheduled basis.
• Any other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Associate Degree in Electronics or Computer-related field.
• 2-3 years of experience in electrical/mechanical troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance in a high-speed automation environment.
• Strong experience in Rockwell Automation, Automation Direct, or similar type of Software PLCs and HMIs, PC-based software, Motion Control, and Robotics.
• 1-2 years’ experience in a high-volume lean manufacturing/continuous flow operations (a plus).
• Knowledge of Lock Out/Tag Out, confined space, and Arc Flash (LOTO, Arc Flash).
• Ability to use AutoCAD, as well as advanced knowledge of Microsoft Suite-based products.
• Strong ability to analyze and interpret data, including equipment manuals and schematics, and demonstrate excellent problem-solving skills such as CNC and PLC troubleshooting.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and controls aspects of factory automation systems and the integration of devices used.
• Formal training in PLC and PC controller programming is required. Rockwell Automation RSLogix, Motion Control, Beckhoff, Automation Direct, Ethernet communications, SCADA, or similar comparable platform.
• Experience with interfacing to relational databases, information management, and reporting applications used for MES/SCADA systems (preferred).
• Skilled electrician working in high-power up to 480 volts 3 phase and control circuits of 24 volts and 200 volts, 4 to 20 milliamp, and 0 to 10 volts.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to use hand tools and measuring devices properly.
• Works productively with others in a team environment, treating others with respect, tact, and diplomacy.
• Solid understanding of the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Physical Requirements

• Lift 1-30# frequently (up to 50% of the time).
• Lift 30-60# regularly (up to 30% of the time).
• Lift 60+# occasionally (up to 25% of the time).
• Push/Pull 100# with assistance seldom (up to 13% of the time).
• Kneel occasionally (up to 25% of the time).
• Squat occasionally (up to 25% of the time).
• Stoop occasionally (up to 25% of the time).
• Climb occasionally (up to 25% of the time).
• Manual dexterity to manipulate power tools and parts with precision occasionally (up to 25% of the time).
• Work with extended arms occasionally (up to 25% of the time).
• Stand in one spot for long periods.
• Able to navigate inside and outside of the facility.
• Able to drive maintenance cart, forklift, etc.
• Able to work long shifts.