About this role
Job title: Automation Engineering Technician
About the Role The Automation Engineering Technician is responsible for the reliability, performance, troubleshooting, maintenance, and continuous improvement of automated manufacturing equipment. This role serves as the technical expert for assigned automation systems and works closely with Production, Maintenance, Engineering, and Quality to maximize equipment uptime, safety, quality, and productivity. The role is hands-on and requires the ability to independently troubleshoot complex automation systems and lead technical problem-solving efforts.
What You'll Do
- Provide automation support and troubleshooting for production automation, industrial robotics, and related interface equipment.
- Set up, adjust, troubleshoot, repair, and maintain automation equipment; diagnose electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, controls, robotics, and software issues.
- Support line startups, changeovers, and new product introductions; respond to downtime events and lead quick, safe recovery.
- Troubleshoot PLC-controlled systems (interpret ladder logic); troubleshoot HMIs, sensors, vision, servo systems, VFDs, safety circuits, and industrial networks.
- Maintain backups of robot programs, PLC programs, HMI applications, and equipment configuration files; coordinate with Maintenance and Production for timely support.
- Establish and perform preventative maintenance for automation and robotics equipment.
- Own performance, reliability, and continuous improvement of assigned automation systems; identify improvements to safety, quality, throughput, ergonomics, and reliability; monitor OEE and drive improvements.
- Modify, troubleshoot, optimize, and integrate existing automation systems, robotic cells, fixtures, tooling, and controls; create/modify robot programs for FANUC, ABB, or similar platforms.
- Assist in assembly, wiring, installation, integration, debugging, validation, commissioning of automation equipment; support new equipment development and capital projects.
- Fabricate and prototype fixtures, grippers, tooling, and components; use CAD to model and modify fixtures and components.
- Train operators, maintenance personnel, and technicians; supervise contractors and vendors during installations and repairs; maintain safe housekeeping.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
What We're Looking For
- Required: Associate degree, technical diploma, journeyman certification, military technical training, or equivalent automation experience.
- 3–5 years of experience troubleshooting industrial automation equipment.
- Experience with industrial robotics (FANUC, ABB, or similar).
- Experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment; ability to read electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
- Strong understanding of electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and automation systems.
- Experience using hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment; strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and teamwork; ability to prioritize workload and manage multiple assignments.
Nice to Have
- Experience programming or modifying robot applications.
- Experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs and Ethernet/IP networks.
- Experience with machine vision systems.
- Experience with servo motion systems and VFDs.
- Experience with CAD software (NX, SolidWorks, Inventor, or similar).
- Experience with machining, fabrication, welding, or 3D printing.
- Experience supporting multiple manufacturing sites.
Compensation & Benefits
- Legendary Company Culture; robust health, dental, and vision insurance; generous 401(k) savings plan; education assistance; on-site food and coffee service; and many more benefits.