Automation and Controls Technician

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

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with Company Match

Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA options,

Life Insurance

PTO & Paid Holidays

Tuition Reimbursement

Performance bonuses up to 6% of wages

Job summary

LeoForce in Lathrop, CA seeks an Automation and Controls Technician to troubleshoot and maintain PLC-controlled manufacturing equipment, program Allen-Bradley PLCs, and keep HMIs, VFDs, and robotics running smoothly.

You'll work with production and maintenance teams, support automation upgrades, assist with commissioning, and ensure safety and regulatory compliance while documenting maintenance activities.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certifications preferred.
• Minimum 2 years in industrial automation, controls, or electrical systems.
• Experience troubleshooting and programming PLC systems, preferably Allen-Bradley.
• Strong background with HMIs, VFDs, instrumentation, sensors, and electrical controls.
• Experience reading electrical schematics and supporting upgrades/commissioning.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot in a fast-paced production environment.
• Commitment to safety and regulatory compliance; collaborative teamwork.
• Beckhoff controls, Fanuc robotics, or vision systems are a plus.

Responsibilities

• 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 electrical schematics and technical documentation.
• Support automation upgrades and capital improvement initiatives.
• Assist with equipment commissioning and startup activities.
• Drive continuous improvement for equipment reliability.
• Ensure accurate maintenance documentation.
• Maintain compliance with safety standards and FDA requirements.
• Collaborate with production and maintenance teams during troubleshooting.

Skills

PLC programming

Allen-Bradley

HMI operation

Electrical troubleshooting

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical training or certifications preferred

Tools

Beckhoff controls

Fanuc robotics

Vision systems

Job description

Automation and Controls Technician

Experience: Mid Level

Salary: $32 - $40 per hour

Lathrop, CA, US

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