Automation and PLC Instructor

Southern California Institute of Technology; Anaheim (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern California Institute of Technology invites applications for an Automation and PLC Instructor responsible for teaching in Industrial Automation Technology and AS programs. The role covers Allen-Bradley PLCs, Studio 5000, networking, HMIs, VFDs, motor controls, I/O, and hydraulic/pneumatic systems, with classroom and laboratory instruction including online delivery.

Candidates should bring hands-on automation experience and clear teaching ability; supervision of labs, safety compliance,

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years hands-on experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, PLC programming, commissioning, or troubleshooting.

Responsibilities

• Instruct students in industrial automation topics, including: Allen-Bradley PLC programming using Studio 5000 Logix Designer, PLC troubleshooting and diagnostics.
• Develop lesson plans, laboratory exercises, and assessments that support established course learning outcomes.
• Employ effective instructional strategies that promote student engagement, critical thinking, and hands-on learning.
• Supervise students during laboratory activities while ensuring compliance with established safety procedures.
• Evaluate student performance and provide timely feedback on assignments, laboratory exercises, and examinations.
• Proctor examinations and maintain accurate attendance and grade records.
• Participate in faculty meetings and curriculum discussions to support continuous improvement of academic programs.
• Contribute to the development and periodic review of curriculum, laboratory exercises, instructional materials, and academic policies as requested.

Skills

Industrial automation

PLC programming

Studio 5000

HMI development

EtherNet/IP networking

Diagnostics and testing

Safety procedures

Teaching experience

Tools

RSLogix 5000

FactoryTalk View ME/SE

TIA Portal

Job description

Position Summary

The Automation and PLC Instructor is responsible for instructing students enrolled in the Industrial Automation Technology and AS Industrial Automation and Robotics Technology programs on topics related to industrial automation and control systems. Primary areas of instruction include Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs using Studio 5000 Logix Designer (RSLogix 5000) , industrial networking, Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), variable frequency drives (VFDs), motor controls, analog and digital I/O, and common hydraulic and pneumatic systems used in modern industrial environments.

This position includes classroom instruction, supervision of laboratory exercises, and may also include instruction in a synchronous online environment.

Responsibilities

• Instruct students in industrial automation topics, including:
  • Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLC programming using Studio 5000 Logix Designer (RSLogix 5000)
  • PLC troubleshooting and diagnostics
  • Ladder Logic development and structured PLC programming
  • Human-Machine Interface (HMI) development and integration (FactoryTalk View preferred)
  • Industrial Ethernet and EtherNet/IP networking
  • PLC communications and networked control systems
  • Integration of PLCs with Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), motor starters, and other industrial devices
  • Digital and analog input/output systems, including scaling and process instrumentation
  • Industrial sensors, actuators, and control devices
  • Motor control circuits
  • Pneumatic and hydraulic control systems
• Develop lesson plans, laboratory exercises, and assessments that support established course learning outcomes.
• Employ effective instructional strategies that promote student engagement, critical thinking, and hands-on learning.
• Supervise students during laboratory activities while ensuring compliance with established safety procedures.
• Evaluate student performance and provide timely feedback on assignments, laboratory exercises, and examinations.
• Proctor examinations and maintain accurate attendance and grade records.
• Participate in faculty meetings and curriculum discussions to support continuous improvement of academic programs.
• Contribute to the development and periodic review of curriculum, laboratory exercises, instructional materials, and academic policies as requested.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five (5) years of hands-on experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, PLC programming, commissioning, or troubleshooting. Ten (10) or more years preferred.
• Demonstrated experience programming and troubleshooting Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs using Studio 5000 Logix Designer (RSLogix 5000).
• Practical experience with several of the following is strongly preferred:
  • FactoryTalk View ME/SE or comparable HMI software
  • EtherNet/IP industrial networking
  • Variable Frequency Drives (PowerFlex or similar)
  • PLC-to-drive integration
  • Analog process instrumentation (4–20 mA, 0–10 V, RTDs, thermocouples, transmitters, etc.)
  • Distributed I/O and industrial communications
  • Industrial troubleshooting and system commissioning
• Experience with Siemens TIA Portal and S7 PLCs is desirable but not required.
• Teaching, technical training, or mentoring experience is preferred but not required.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent presentation, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to effectively demonstrate and supervise hands‑on laboratory exercises while maintaining a safe learning environment.