Automations Controls Technician II (Days)

Job Summary:The Automation Controls Technician II is responsible for independently troubleshooting, maintaining, and improving automation and control systems. This mid-level role supports production and facility operations by diagnosing complex electrical and controls issues, performing control system modifications, and assisting with automation projects. The Technician II serves as a technical resource for junior technicians and works closely with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams.Essential Functions of the Job:

Independently troubleshoot and repair PLC-based control systems and automated equipmentDiagnose electrical, controls, and instrumentation issues with minimal supervisionPerform systematic troubleshooting of automated systems from PLC logic and I/O through instrumentation, field devices, and controlled equipmentTroubleshoot and modify PLC logic, HMI applications, and control parameters in accordance with engineering standardsInstall, test, and commission control panels, field devices, and automation componentsPerform advanced troubleshooting of VFDs, servos, instrumentation, field devices, and industrial communication networksSupport continuous improvement initiatives and automation upgradesParticipate in root cause analysis of automation and controls-related failures and implement corrective actionsMentor and support Automation Controls Technician I staffMaintain accurate controls documentation, system backups, and change recordsEnsure compliance with safety standards, electrical codes, and LOTO proceduresProvide technical support during equipment startups, shutdowns, and downtime eventsAccountable to the SunOpta Manufacturing Food Safety and Quality Principles.All other duties, as assigned.

Assist in coaching and training employees as requested by the management team.

Completes and adheres to the Annual Alchemy Schedule.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None.

Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or GED requiredAssociate degree or technical certification in Automation, Electronics, Mechatronics, or related field preferred3-5 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation and controls, including independent troubleshooting of PLC-based control systemsStrong working knowledge of PLCs, industrial controls, and electrical systemsAbility to read and interpret electrical schematics and read, troubleshoot, and modify PLC ladder logicExperience independently troubleshooting control panels, instrumentations, field devices, and industrial automation networksDemonstrated understanding of digital and analog I/O, instrumentation, sensors, actuators, and industrial control circuitsProficient with electrical test equipment and diagnostic tools

Preferred Qualifications:

Hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley PLC platforms, including ControlLogix and CompactLogix, experience with other industrial PLC platforms is also valued.HMI development and troubleshooting experience, Rockwell FactoryTalk View experience preferredVFD, servo, and motion control experienceExperience with Ethernet/IP, industrial Ethernet, and other industrial communication networksStrong problem-solving and analytical skillsExperience supporting automated manufacturing processes in a high-speed production environmentAbility to mentor, train, and provide guidance to junior technicians

Additional Considerations:

Location: This role is at our SunOpta Plant at MN Street in Alexandria, MN.Shift: This is a day shift role, Monday through Friday, 7am to 3:30pm.Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb, and lift up to 50 lbs.Ability to work in industrial environments (noise, heat, moving equipment)Willingness to work shifts, weekends, overtime, or on-call as needed