Technician- Automation I USA (B Crew/PM Shift)

About the role

This is an entry-level Automation Technician controls position supporting manufacturing operations. The successful candidate will assist with equipment implementation and startup, PLC/HMI programming, and troubleshooting/optimization of manufacturing process control systems. The role directly supports a manufacturing site and is assigned to a manufacturing schedule on either AM or PM crew/shift.

Schedule

• AM shift: 6:00 AM – 6:10 PM
• PM shift: 6:00 PM – 6:10 AM
• Rotating 36/48 hour work week, includes working every other Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

Education & Experience

• Minimum 2 years of manufacturing equipment electrical/electronic/controls experience
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Robotics, Industrial Controls, or Electronic Engineering (preferred)
• No degree: must have 5+ years verifiable experience in a related field (e.g., Semiconductors, Automotive)

Required Skills & Competencies

• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and set priorities
• Ability to interpret data and draw reasonable conclusions for troubleshooting
• Good understanding of reading electrical/mechanical drawings and suggesting modifications
• Good understanding of manufacturing processes and safety requirements
• Demonstrated proficiency troubleshooting electrical/electronic control systems in a manufacturing environment
• Competent in Autodesk AutoCAD for electrical schematics and panel layouts
• Good understanding of programming/troubleshooting Rockwell Automation Logix platform PLCs
• Good understanding of programming/troubleshooting Rockwell Automation HMIs using FactoryTalk View ME; Proface HMI experience a plus
• Good understanding troubleshooting at least two control networks (ControlNet, DeviceNet, Profibus, and/or Ethernet)
• Basic understanding of robotic systems including troubleshooting, programming, and safety
• Good understanding of computer hardware/applications and Microsoft Office suite
• Basic understanding of corporate Ethernet architectures and systems
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills
• Basic understanding of SQL database tables/queries
• Basic understanding of data collection processes and OPC protocols

Essential Responsibilities

• Support manufacturing facilities, including remote support of worldwide manufacturing facilities
• Troubleshoot, repair, problem-solve, and maintain all electrical control systems for manufacturing equipment
• Assist with coordination of new equipment installation and implementation, including MES integration events
• Maintain and update manufacturing process tool electrical drawings; ensure equipment changes are documented and drawings kept current
• Implement new software changes/upgrades specified by the Controls Engineering Department
• Identify, research, document, and present solutions to control problems and continuous improvement projects
• Interface with multiple departments within the organization
• Maintain effective communications and foster team building
• Ensure adherence to all safety procedures and good housekeeping standards

Key Competencies

• Takes responsibility for understanding client requirements, collecting data, delivering analysis and problem resolution; identifies, evaluates, and recommends options, implementing if required
• Collaborates with and facilitates stakeholder groups as part of formal or informal consultancy agreements
• Seeks to fully address client needs, enhancing capabilities and effectiveness of client personnel
• Maintains awareness of opportunities provided by new technology; works to further organizational goals using emerging technologies and products
• Contributes to briefings and presentations about relevance and potential value of new technologies
• Assists with collection of safety assurance evidence; undertakes work per agreed safety, technical, and quality standards
• Documents results of hazard and risk analysis activities
• Investigates and recommends components and subsystems meeting sustainability criteria
• Performs, analyzes, and documents evaluations according to a plan
• Configures software and equipment; tests platform-specific versions; reports outcomes and identifies improvements
• Uses system management software/tools to collect performance statistics; carries out agreed system software maintenance
• Identifies and resolves application issues following agreed procedures; uses application management tools
• Carries out agreed operational procedures of a routine nature; contributes to maintenance, installation, and problem resolution
• Identifies and resolves network problems following agreed procedures; uses network management tools
• Initiates and monitors actions to investigate and resolve problems in systems and services; assists with implementation of remedies and preventative measures
• Receives and handles support requests following agreed procedures; responds with information to enable incident resolution; maintains records and advises relevant persons

Reporting Relationships

This position will not have direct reports.

Travel

No travel is required. If hired during plant start-up, you will be expected to travel to other First Solar locations for training.

Pay

Estimated salary range: $26.97 – $38.46 per hour (US).

Physical Requirements

• Sit, stand, or walk short distances for up to 12 hours per day
• Climb stairs or steps on a frequent basis
• Lift up to 58 pounds occasionally, up to 37 pounds frequently
• Push or pull up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, up to 37 pounds frequently
• Use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry, or feel objects frequently
• 20/40 vision in both eyes (with or without correction); ability to distinguish red, yellow, and green
• Reach above shoulder heights and below waist frequently
• Stoop, kneel, or bend occasionally
• Must comply with all safety standards and procedures
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment required (steel-toed shoes, cut-resistant gloves, jackets, aprons/arm guards, safety glasses/goggles, hearing protection, respirators); may require little or no facial hair