Technician, Automation Controls(B) OR (D)

Location: St. Albans, VT | Reports to: Maintenance Supervisor

About the role

This position is responsible for troubleshooting and leading the effort to identify if the problem is mechanical, electrical or from the computer systems controlling the process; all aspects related to the factory maintenance strategy and will execute activities according to factory and corporate standards, specifications, local codes, and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Observe all safety, sanitation, GMP and HACCP requirements
• Perform routine diagnostic checks on automated systems, monitor automated systems, isolate problems and perform repairs
• Configure, test, troubleshoot and commission AB, ABB and Siemens VFDs
• Configure, troubleshoot, and commission PLC and HMI based control systems with the ability to make minor programming changes
• Direct and oversee the maintenance of programs for PLCs and PCs coordinating with Process Engineers, Project Engineers, Information Technology staff, and Production and Maintenance personnel
• Support the development and design of future system installations
• Educate and guide mechanics with their ability to troubleshoot automated and electrical systems to prevent unnecessary downtime
• Enforce PLC/HMI policy/procedures
• Document system modifications in order to maintain an accurate registry of modifications

Qualifications

• Associates degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related technical degree (preferred)
• At least 3 years of related automation experience with HMI, SCADA, PLCs, and general control system design
• Experience in food industry (a plus)
• In-depth knowledge of industrial automation systems, including HMI and SCADA systems, Allen-Bradley controls/controllers, Siemens and PLCs
• Experience with Allen-Bradley (PLC5, SLC500, MicroLogix, ControlLogix, CompactLogix) PLCs, PanelView/PanelViewPlus HMIs, Industrial Communication Networks (Ethernet, EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, DH+, etc.) — required
• Experience with FactoryTalk Suite, Wonderware Suite, and VisualBasic/C#/Java (a plus)
• Strong skill set with AB programmable logic controllers (PLC5, SLC500, MicroLogix, ControlLogix, CompactLogix), Siemens S7 (a plus), and Human Interface (HMIs) such as AB PanelView, FactoryTalk View ME and SE
• Understanding of industrial power circuits, installation practices, and general OSHA safety practices
• Understand the plant electrical criteria, standards and company guidelines
• Ability to install, maintain, troubleshoot, and calibrate instrumentation such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, level switches, valve actuators and positioners and weighing systems
• Ability to lead a team and accomplish project goals effectively as needed
• Ability to multi-task while maintaining attention to detail and deadlines
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Team-oriented and collaborative
• Physical requirements: ability to stand on concrete floor for long periods; bend, squat, stretch and reach frequently; climb stairs often; lift a minimum of 50 lbs often; comfortable working at heights; able to work in a variety of weather conditions and temperatures in the facility; noise level can exceed 85 decibels

Schedule

• Option 1: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday 7:00 pm – 7:15 am and Wednesday 7:00 pm – 1:15 am
• Option 2: Thursday 1:00 am – 7:15 am and Thursday, Friday, Saturday 7:00 pm – 7:15 am

Pay

• Shift differential: 10% hourly rate for Option 1 schedule
• Shift differential: 20% hourly rate for Option 2 schedule

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
• 12 paid holidays, generous PTO, plus your birthday off
• Environment that welcomes workplace flexibility
• Atmosphere where diversity is embraced and inclusivity is second nature (#OneBC)
• Ability to grow personally and professionally within an organization that values development and internal career growth
• Be part of the mission in making sustainability the norm through Forever Chocolate (prospering farmers, zero child labor, carbon and forest positive, 100% sustainable ingredients)