Automation and Controls Technician

Leoforce; Lathrop (CA); On-site; USD 44,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) match

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

HSA option

PTO & holidays

Tuition reimbursement

Career growth

Referral bonuses

On-demand pay

Employee discount

Job summary

Leoforce is seeking an Automation and Controls Technician in Lathrop, CA to manage PLC-controlled manufacturing equipment and program Allen-Bradley PLCs. You will maintain HMIs, VFDs, and robotic systems while reading electrical schematics and supporting upgrades.

The role requires at least 2 years in industrial automation, a safety-focused mindset, and collaboration with cross-functional teams. On-site, full-time position with competitive compensation.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical training preferred.
• Minimum 2 years in industrial automation, controls, or electrical systems.
• Experience troubleshooting and programming PLCs, preferably Allen-Bradley.
• Strong background with HMIs, VFDs, and sensors/electrical controls.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot, diagnose, and maintain PLC-controlled manufacturing equipment.
• Program and troubleshoot Allen-Bradley PLC systems.
• Maintain HMIs, VFDs, and robotic equipment.
• Read electrical schematics and technical documentation.
• Support automation upgrades and commissioning activities.
• Ensure safety and FDA compliance; document maintenance activities.

Skills

Troubleshooting

PLC programming

Electrical schematics

Cross-functional teamwork

Safety compliance

Education

High school diploma

Technical training or certifications

Tools

Allen-Bradley PLCs

Beckhoff controls

Fanuc robotics

HMI

VFDs

Job description

Automation and Controls Technician

Location: Lathrop, CA, US

Experience: Mid Level

Salary: $32 - $40 per hour

Key Responsibilities and Duties

• Troubleshoot, diagnose, and maintain PLC-controlled manufacturing equipment.
• Program and troubleshoot Allen-Bradley PLC systems.
• Maintain and repair HMIs, VFDs, and robotic equipment.
• Diagnose and repair electrical systems, wiring, sensors, and instrumentation.
• Interpret and utilize electrical schematics and technical documentation.
• Support automation upgrades and capital improvement initiatives.
• Assist with equipment commissioning and startup activities.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives related to equipment reliability.
• Ensure accurate maintenance documentation.
• Maintain compliance with company safety standards and FDA requirements.
• Collaborate effectively with production and maintenance teams during troubleshooting efforts.

Qualifications Needed

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training, certifications, or related education preferred.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in industrial automation, controls, or electrical systems.
• Experience troubleshooting and programming PLC systems, preferably Allen-Bradley.
• Strong background working with HMIs, VFDs, instrumentation, sensors, and electrical controls.
• Experience reading and interpreting electrical schematics.
• Experience supporting automation upgrades and commissioning activities.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot manufacturing equipment in a fast-paced production environment.
• Strong commitment to safety procedures and regulatory compliance.
• Ability to work collaboratively within cross-functional teams.
• Preferred experience with Beckhoff controls, Fanuc robotics, and/or vision systems.

A bit about us

Founded nearly 130 years ago and based in Lathrop, California, with other operations supporting customers nationwide, we are a rapidly growing food and beverage manufacturer producing innovative shelf-stable products enjoyed across the country. We pride ourselves on a culture built around safety, quality, teamwork, communication, and employee development. As we continue to grow, we invest heavily in our people through training, advancement opportunities, and a collaborative environment where employees can build long-term careers.

Why join us?

• Competitive Compensation: Up to $45.00/hour base pay (DOE) plus shift differential
• Quarterly Bonuses: Team achievement bonuses of up to 6% of wages
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA options, and Life Insurance
• Generous PTO & Paid Holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Stable Employment: Full-time hours with no seasonal layoffs
• Career Growth: Advancement opportunities and ongoing skill development
• Employee-Centric Culture: Communication, wellness initiatives, employee activities, and community involvement
• Additional Perks: Referral bonuses, on-demand pay access, and employee discount programs