PLC/Automation Technician- First Shift

Charter Manufacturing is a fourth-generation family-owned business where our will to grow drives us to do it better.  Join the team and become part of our family!

POSITION PURPOSE/MISSION:

As the key escalation point for the Maintenance team to ensure Production runs efficiently, the PLC/Automation Technician is a critical role within the Maintenance Department. This role is responsible for installing, programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, sensors, and a wide variety of industrial control system inputs and devices to support automated equipment and processes.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associates Degree in Technical Field or combination of education and experience
• Three plus years’ relevant experience in maintenance or production
• Knowledge of PLC programming and communication protocols
• Knowledge in troubleshooting and installing control system hardware
• Ability to create, interpret and update wiring diagrams and schematics
• Working knowledge of Rockwell PLCs and software
• Motor drive (VFD) troubleshooting and configuration
• Working knowledge of industrial communication networks (primarily EtherNet/IP; familiarity with EtherCAT, Modbus TCP, IO-Link, or other fieldbus networks is a plus)
• Demonstrated strong safety record
• Working knowledge of NFPA 70E (Arc Flash) standards
• Working knowledge and application of Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures per OSHA 1910.147
• Continuous Improvement mindset
• Ability to work well with team members and clearly communicate, both verbally and written
• Ability and willingness to work on the floor in a production environment

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with other, site-specific technologies (Beckhoff, Siemens Step 7, and Click PLCs)
• Experience working with electrical and electronic equipment (encoders, proximity sensors, temperature and pressure sensors, LVDTs, etc.)
• Working knowledge of HMI and control system interfacing
• Root-cause identification and implementation of solutions
• Understanding of mechanical and electrical principles
• Experience using data acquisition software for trending and problem solving
• AutoCAD experience

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

The primary responsibilities of this role are to monitor, maintain, and improve the control systems that run automated equipment. These key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Troubleshoot and maintain PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, motors, and motor controls
• Diagnose and repair electrical wiring, sensors, instrumentation, and control inputs
• Review, edit, and troubleshoot PLC programs under the guidance of the Controls Engineer to increase efficiency and uptime
• Support system upgrades, commissioning, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Ensure documentation accuracy and compliance with safety and established standards
• Manage accurate documentation, backups, and version control of programs and system changes, including updating schematics using AutoCAD as needed

The troubleshooting responsibilities of this role include collaboration with Engineering and the Maintenance team to diagnose issues and implement corrective actions. This will require some mechanical maintenance and industrial electrical work as needed. Examples may include troubleshooting:

• HMI and pushbutton panels and enclosures
• Ethernet and other critical communication networks
• Various sensors, pneumatic and hydraulic valves, and ancillary equipment interface wiring
• Opportunities to elevate safety, reduce costs, increase efficiency, or improve quality
• Follow Environmental, Quality, and Safety Management System procedures and requirements
• Ability to meet the essential job requirements, with or without reasonable accommodation, as outlined in the job description

We offer comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits, along with a 401(k) plan that includes employer matching and profit sharing. Additionally, we offer company-paid life insurance, disability coverage, and paid time off (PTO).