Job Title: Controls Technician
Department: Engineering
Reports To: Engineering Manager
Job Summary
The Controls Technician is responsible for troubleshooting, maintaining, repairing, and improving electrical control systems and automated manufacturing equipment to support safe, efficient, and reliable production. This position works closely with maintenance, engineering, and production teams to minimize downtime, improve equipment performance, and maintain product quality.
Key Responsibilities
Troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair PLCs, electrical control systems, sensors, relays, motors, drives, and other automation components.
Maintain and troubleshoot injection molding machines, robotic systems, conveyors, automated assembly equipment, and auxiliary machinery.
Diagnose machine faults, electrical failures, communication issues, and automation-related production interruptions.
Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, control-panel drawings, and equipment manuals.
Troubleshoot and modify PLC programs and HMI interfaces as authorized and required.
Support industrial robots, vision inspection systems, safety circuits, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and servo systems.
Perform preventive maintenance and equipment inspections to reduce unplanned downtime.
Assist with installation, setup, commissioning, and startup of new or upgraded production equipment.
Work with maintenance, engineering, and production personnel to identify root causes and implement permanent corrective actions.
Maintain accurate records of repairs, machine faults, program changes, and preventive maintenance activities.
Follow electrical safety procedures, lockout/tagout (LOTO) requirements, and applicable workplace safety standards.
Support continuous improvement initiatives to improve equipment reliability, cycle times, product quality, and production efficiency.
Qualifications and Skills
Technical diploma, certificate, or equivalent experience in industrial automation, electrical technology, mechatronics, or a related field.
Experience troubleshooting industrial electrical and automated manufacturing systems.
Working knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, industrial controls, sensors, and electrical circuits.
Familiarity with Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation systems and industrial robotics is preferred.
Knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
Ability to interpret electrical schematics and technical documentation.
Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
Experience in plastics injection molding or automotive manufacturing is an asset.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced production environment.
Commitment to workplace safety, quality standards, and reliable equipment operation.
Performance Expectations
The Controls Technician is expected to help achieve the following objectives:
Minimize equipment downtime and production interruptions.
Maintain reliable operation of control systems and automated equipment.
Support consistent product quality and production targets.
Complete maintenance and troubleshooting tasks safely and efficiently.
Contribute to equipment improvements and preventive maintenance programs.
Work Environment
This position is based on the manufacturing floor and may involve exposure to operating injection molding machines, robotics, electrical control panels, and industrial equipment. The role may require shift coverage, overtime, and responding to urgent equipment breakdowns, depending on plant requirements.
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