Thompson First Group is seeking an Industrial Automation & Controls Technician for a direct hire opportunity with a local manufacturing client.
Candidates with experience troubleshooting PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, instrumentation, control systems, and industrial automation equipment are encouraged to apply. This is a hands-on maintenance position supporting critical manufacturing operations in a heavy industrial environment.
Responsibilities:
- Accident prevention – actively identify, correct, and/or report safety hazards to prevent accidents.
- Troubleshoot and repair automation and control system components including PLCs, HMIs, sensors, transmitters, control valves, and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs).
- Diagnose and resolve faults within control panels, I/O systems, instrumentation loops, and industrial communication networks.
- Perform routine inspections, testing, and preventive maintenance on automation and instrumentation equipment.
- Calibrate process instrumentation including pressure, temperature, flow, and level devices.
- Conduct loop checks, signal tracing, and input/output verification to ensure proper system operation.
- Support electrical and mechanical maintenance teams during equipment breakdowns involving automation and control systems.
- Maintain accurate documentation including wiring diagrams, control system drawings, logic documentation, and instrumentation records.
- Assist with installation, commissioning, and startup of new control equipment and field instrumentation.
- Participate in root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives to improve equipment reliability and plant performance.
- Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, P&IDs, and technical documentation.
- Communicate equipment status, repairs, and corrective actions with maintenance personnel, operators, engineers, and supervisors.
- Maintain a safe and clean work environment by complying with company policies, procedures, and regulations.
- Complete maintenance records, calibration reports, and work orders accurately.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Must be able to fulfill essential job functions in a consistent state of alertness and in a safe manner.
Requirements:
- High School Diploma or equivalent required.
- Technical Certificate or Associate Degree in Industrial Automation, Instrumentation, Electrical Technology, or a related field preferred.
- Previous experience maintaining industrial automation, instrumentation, and control systems.
- Working knowledge of Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar PLC and HMI platforms.
- Experience with instrumentation calibration and troubleshooting.
- Familiarity with analog and digital control circuits, motor controls, and industrial communication networks.
- Experience troubleshooting VFDs and process control equipment.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and P&IDs.
- Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work safely in an industrial manufacturing environment that includes exposure to moving equipment, high temperatures, noise, and confined spaces.
**Thompson First Group is an equal opportunity employer and participates in E-Verify. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity