Senior Automation Technician

Overview

Underwood Ammunition is a leading manufacturer of premium ammunition, firearms, and accessories. We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Automation Technician who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on manufacturing environment. This role involves advanced technical leadership while engaging directly with production equipment and supporting day-to-day operations on the factory floor.

• Lead end-to-end implementation of automation and manufacturing upgrades, including system design, mechanical/electrical integration, and field installation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate production needs into practical automation solutions.
• Perform daily hands-on troubleshooting, calibration, and adjustments on automation equipment, conveyors, robotics, and precision manufacturing systems.
• Support machine setup, tool changes, and configuration for production batches.
• Respond to production line disruptions and ensure minimal downtime through quick intervention and root cause analysis.
• Work closely with operators and shift supervisors to monitor equipment performance, resolve issues on the floor, and maintain optimal production throughput.
• Proactively assist with mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical repairs as needed during daily manufacturing activities.
• Support the assembly, wiring, and testing of new control panels and machine components.
• Ensure that automation support, machine availability, and technical interventions align with the daily and weekly manufacturing priority schedule.
• Partner with production leadership to proactively adjust automation or equipment configurations in response to shifting priorities and order demands.
• Integrate and maintain smart manufacturing systems, including robotic arms, motion control, machine vision systems, and programmable logic systems.
• Apply Industry 4.0 techniques to enhance real-time monitoring, machine learning-driven diagnostics, and overall system intelligence.
• Execute and refine preventative maintenance plans in collaboration with the maintenance team.
• Utilize sensor data and diagnostic tools to identify potential failures and reduce unplanned downtime.
• Provide on-the-job training and shadowing opportunities for junior technicians and machine operators.
• Educate shop-floor teams on equipment operation, safety best practices, and troubleshooting procedures.
• Verify that automated systems are producing within tolerance and quality standards.
• Make mechanical or software adjustments to maintain precision and minimize scrap rates.
• Maintain maintenance logs, wiring diagrams, PLC logic records, and project documentation.
• Report recurring issues and work closely with engineering to implement design improvements.

• Education:
  
  Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Automation, Mechatronics, Manufacturing Technology, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience:
  
  5+ years of hands-on experience in a high-volume or precision manufacturing setting with exposure to industrial automation and equipment repair.
• Technical Proficiency:
  Deep experience with Allen-Bradley/Siemens PLCs, HMIs, robotics, pneumatics, sensors, motor controls, and troubleshooting production machinery.
• Manual Dexterity & Physical Endurance:
  Comfortable working with tools, lifting parts, climbing ladders, and spending significant time on the shop floor.
• Problem-Solving & Initiative:
  Strong ability to think critically and act swiftly under pressure to minimize downtime.
• Teamwork:
  Ability to work closely with operations, quality control, engineering, and maintenance teams in a collaborative, high-performance environment.

• This role is 75% hands-on with daily floor presence required in production areas.
• Occasional travel may be required for equipment vendor visits or training.
• Compensation and benefits will be discussed during the interview process.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $28.00 - $45.00 per hour

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Relocation assistance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Ability to Commute:

• Sparta, IL 62286 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Sparta, IL 62286 -- Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location:

In-person