Automation - Automation Technician (B Shift, 7am - 7pm)

Polytainers Inc.; Lee's Summit (MO); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Polytainers Inc. in Lee's Summit, MO is seeking an Automation Technician to troubleshoot and repair various robotic systems and associated equipment. Responsibilities include setting up equipment, diagnosing faults, and performing preventative maintenance to ensure operational efficiency.

The ideal candidate will have at least 3-5 years of experience in a technical role within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. A high school diploma is required; post-secondary education in Automation is preferred. The position demands a strong mechanical ability and commitment to safety.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3-5 years of technical experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Experience in injection molded plastics and/or food packaging preferred.
• Strong mechanical ability and proven ability to identify corrective actions.

Responsibilities

• Set up and maintain various parts handling equipment for plastic containers.
• Load HMI programs and modify to improve efficiency.
• Perform robotic preventative maintenance including cleaning and greasing.

Skills

Troubleshooting robots

Preventative maintenance

Interpersonal communication

Mechanical ability

Education

High School Diploma

Post-secondary education in Automation

Tools

Microsoft Office

Vision Inspection Systems

Job description

Lee's Summit, MO, USA

Job Description

Posted Thursday, July 2, 2026 at 5:00 AM

Position Summary

Reporting to the Molding Maintenance Manager, the Automation Technician is responsible for trouble shooting and repairing various IML Robots, Take-out robots, lid stacking equipment, and Vision Inspection system. The primary job function is to troubleshoot and set up robots and auxiliary equipment, also to respond to machines that require repair (blow by adjustments) or require improved performance. This person will also perform Preventative Maintenance or work on projects when time permits, as directed by the Maintenance Manager.

Position Responsibilities

• Set-up and maintain various parts handling equipment for plastic containers and lids including take-out robots, IML robots, vision inspection systems and associated equipment
• Load HMI programs and modify as necessary to reduce defects, improve cycle time and increase overall efficiency
• Read and interpret robot HMI messages/errors to accurately diagnose robot status and faults
• Install, diagnose, adjust, and replace various discrete sensors, photo sensors, proximity sensors, reed switches, etc.
• Install, diagnose, adjust, and replace various servo motors, servo drives, encoders, and cables
• Configure vision inspection system after label change and material change
• Preform start up and mid run vision system inspection including red rabbit testing, defect threshold testing, barcode/QR code testing and reject system testing
• Perform robotic preventative maintenance including cleaning, greasing, replacing, and rebuilding robot components as well as cleaning and maintaining associated equipment, platforms and, conveyors
• Install, diagnose, adjust, and replace various pneumatic cylinders, fittings, flow controls and valves
• Accurately complete all required documentation and record issues as instructed
• Ensure complete communication of all information to next shift and appropriate supervisor/manager to ensure continuation of information
• Identify any quality or production concerns that could affect finished product and elevate to Shift Supervisor and/or appropriate management
• Participate and contribute to continuous improvement projects
• Always comply with plant safety and HACCP, using appropriate PPE while performing various duties
• Monitor and Ensure Health & Safety / HACCP & SQF / 5S Compliance, including proactively identify and suggesting ways to eliminate hazards and participating in safety Investigations when required.
• Must follow food safety and cGMP processes and procedures – training is provided

Note: Work is performed in a production environment with high levels of noise. Heavy lifting and prolonged standing is required. Walking, climbing, reaching, bending, kneeling, pushing and pulling and some repetitive arm, wrist and shoulder movements are required in this position.

Skills/Experience Required

Educational Requirements: High School Diploma

Preferred Educational Requirements: Post-secondary education, preferably in Automation

Minimum Experience/Field: Minimum 3 - 5 years of technical experience in a fast paced, high volume lean manufacturing environment. Experience in injection molded plastics and/or food packaging industry preferred

Computer Skills: Good PC skills including working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications

Communication Skills: Proven track record working with people and problem resolution and strong interpersonal, collaboration skills

Additional Education/Experience/Skills: Strong mechanical ability and proven ability to root cause and determine permanent corrective actions. Experience with cameras and/or vision inspection systems. General knowledge of In Mold Labeling (IML) and injection molding operations is highly desirable. A bias for action and proven ability to deliver results

Core Competencies for this Position

• Mechanically inclined with a positive can-do attitude
• Reliable and trustworthy with a strong work ethic, which is demonstrated in your past behaviors
• Flexible and able to adapt to and work effectively within a variety of situations & with various individuals and groups.
• Consistently uses good judgement while decision making, analyzes problems from different angles to seek alternatives before determining best solutions
• Demonstrates a strong sense of urgency, assuming responsibility without being asked in order to achieve results
• Maintain an effective relationship with internal and external partners by meeting expectations, gaining trust and respect and
• upholding a customer focused culture

Polytainers is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Polytainers is committed to diversity and inclusivity in employment and welcomes applications from qualified individuals of diverse backgrounds. Polytainers is also committed to providing accommodations for people with disabilities. If you require an accommodation, we will work with you to meet your needs.