MES Programmer I

Position Summary

Responsible for supporting and troubleshooting manufacturing software systems used in production operations, including testing, packing, and shipping processes. This role provides Level 1 support and develops and maintains MES-related applications, working closely with production and engineering teams to ensure system performance and operational efficiency. A large part of this role is creating SOPs and troubleshooting manuals.

Key Responsibilities

• System Integration: Connect MES software directly with factory hardware, PLCs, and backend enterprise systems.
• Process Tracking: Build workflows to trace products from raw materials to finished goods.
• Change Documentation: Changes to be documented, approved, and tested prior to deployment to production; ensure documentation of programs - both existing and developed.
• Support and Troubleshooting: Provide real-time, Level 2 software support to operators and engineering teams; triage IO problems.

Job Duties

• Maintain the plant's Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) including maintenance, troubleshooting, modifications, and expansions as related to the PLC and Scada and its interfaces to the MES system.
• Maintain plant PLC, server, and network systems including maintenance, troubleshooting, modifications, and expansions.
• Perform backups and disaster recovery tasks.
• Design MMI (Wonderware software) screens to match equipment identification provided by the Electrical Engineering Manager as user interfaces to the equipment controllers.
• Provide training to operators and technicians on changes to MMI which would affect day-to-day plant operations.
• Provide electrical expertise to assist mechanical troubleshooting of plant equipment.
• Provide assistance to the Instrument Technicians as required.
• Perform programming and maintain PLC, VFD, MMI documentation, including but not limited to Wonder Ware, and Allen-Bradley Software.
• Create and document tickets for corrective actions as issues with programming or new changes and updates are requested.
• Comply with all safety rules and plant policies, as well as FDA defined Good Manufacturing Policies (GMPs).
• Communicate with plant production, maintenance, and engineering personnel.
• Make periodic preventative maintenance inspections of all metering control instruments, diagnosing existing or potential trouble; clean, lubricate, calibrate, and adjust as conditions indicate.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum of two years’ experience with MES systems or manufacturing software support.
• Knowledge of software troubleshooting, including IO and ladder logic required.
• Exceptional problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and organizational abilities.
• Able to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with manufacturing operations and production support required.
• Must have hands-on experience working in a manufacturing environment, CPG strongly preferred.
• Experience with Allen Bradley ControlLogix Processors and RSLogix 5000, HMI interface programming, CAD drawing in schematic generation, industrial controls, and familiarity with NEC codes required.
• Excellent communication skills required.
• Must be self-motivated with a high level of initiative and a proactive approach.
• Able to read and interpret blueprints and schematics.
• Strong background in electronics/electrical, pneumatic/hydraulic equipment, PLC’s MMP’s, PC’s programming, NEC, NFPA-70E, and ISA standards.
• Experience working with up to 480V, PLC’s, PC’s, MMI, control systems, instrumentation, and VFD’s.
• Experience with Specific Technologies: Languages: LadderLogic and basic SQL for database query and MES scripts. Platforms: Ignition by Inductive Automation, Siemens Opcenter, or Rockwell Plex. Allen Bradley and Wonderware Concepts: Lean manufacturing, SCADA/HMI interfaces, and track/trace logic. Programming: DES, PLC, MMI, and MES, including Allen Bradley PLCs, from SLC500, PLC5, to ControlLogix systems; DeviceNet and ControlNet systems; Square D and Omron PLC systems; Wonderware Software (InTouch and InTrack); AutoCAD Electrical; SQL and Access.
• Food Safety Requirements and Responsibilities: must comply with all Federal, State, Corporate, Warehouse, and Food Safety standards, policies, and guidelines (i.e. HACCP, GMP, SQF, FDA, etc.).
• Physical Demands: manual dexterity required for operating machinery and computers. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds required. Ability to climb vertical ladders.
• Must be willing and able to work in a non-climate-controlled environment.