Automation Technician

Job Summary

The Automation Technician supports the design, maintenance, and troubleshooting of control systems for automated machinery and equipment in a battery manufacturing environment. This role focuses on fault recovery, pneumatic systems, robotics, and Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)-based controls to ensure optimal equipment performance and uptime. The Automation Technician collaborates with engineering, maintenance, and production teams to implement improvements and support new product introductions.

• Rapidly diagnose and recover from equipment faults to minimize downtime.
• Troubleshoot and repair Allen Bradley PLCs, Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), sensors, and control hardware.
• Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for recurring issues.
• Maintain and troubleshoot electrical system components, sensors, drives, motors, contractors while safely utilizing proper tools and equipment.
• Interpret electrical schematics and support system upgrades safely.
• Interact with Information Technology (IT) department as needed to maintain production uptime.
• Maintain and troubleshoot pneumatic components including valves, actuators, and air handling systems.
• Interpret pneumatic schematics and support system upgrades.
• Connect and troubleshoot Keyence and Cognex vision applications.
• Operate and maintain Fanuc robots, including fault recovery and basic programming.
• Support robot manipulation and teach pendant operations.
• Program Allen Bradley PLCs and other control devices under engineering guidance.
• Monitor and troubleshoot HMI settings to support production needs.
• Support barcode system troubleshooting and maintenance for both Keyence and Cognex systems.
• Participate in equipment installations, capability studies, and validation of new or modified processes.
• Identify and implement improvement projects focused on cost reduction and efficiency.
• Ensure equipment meets applicable electrical and safety standards.
• Participate in work instruction reviews.
• Provide technical support to production operators and maintenance teams.
• Support off‑shift work when required.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Maintenance Manager.
• Adhere to federal and state regulations.
• Adhere to all company policies, processes, and procedures.
• Perform other duties as requested, directed, or assigned.
• Maintain predictable and reliable attendance.

• Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Controls Engineering, or related field; equivalent experience in controls, automation, and/or Fanuc robots.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in controls or automation within a manufacturing environment.
• Proficient in Allen Bradley PLCs (RSLogix 5000/Studio 5000), Fanuc robots, and pneumatic systems.
• Working knowledge of HMI interfaces, Keyence sensors/cameras, SQL databases, and MES platforms.
• Ability to troubleshoot and maintain basic automation networking systems.
• Basic skills in maintaining and troubleshooting lineside printers.
• Fundamental understanding of Three‑Dimensional (3D) modeling and implementation.
• Willingness to learn and apply MES concepts and SQL Server database implementation and maintenance. Ability to read and interpret electrical and pneumatic schematics.
• Familiarity with AutoCAD Electrical and machine control cabinet layouts.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Experience with Technical Specification (TS) 16949 and International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 14001 standards is preferred.
• Competent in Microsoft Office applications.

• Focus on Quality:
  Drives work results with a quality focus in actions and results.
• Decision Making & Analysis:
  Makes sound decisions based upon a mixture of data‑driven analysis, expertise, experience, and judgment; collects relevant information, seeking input from others, and identifies connections and/or root causes of problems.
• Continual Improvement:
  Displays a consistent orientation toward producing the highest quality products or services, while keeping a focus on sustainability. Constantly looking for incremental improvements in work processes and results.
• Takes Initiative:
  Exhibits strong drive for…