Automation Controls Maintenance Specialist

ESPO; Waukegan (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an Automation Controls Maintenance Specialist to enhance their production line efficiency. This critical role involves maintaining and troubleshooting automation systems, ensuring optimal performance in food production processes. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in PLC programming and industrial automation, with a focus on safety and quality standards. Join a dynamic team dedicated to continuous improvement and innovation, where your expertise will directly impact production efficiency and safety. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and are passionate about automation, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

401k

Paid Leave

Tuition Reimbursement

Qualifications

• 3+ years in Automation and Controls role within manufacturing.
• Proven experience in PLC programming and industrial automation.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and troubleshoot automation systems for optimal production.
• Collaborate with teams to optimize processes and implement improvements.

Skills

PLC Programming

Industrial Automation

System Optimization

Preventive Maintenance

Troubleshooting

Problem-Solving

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Automation or Mechatronics Degree

Equivalent Experience

Tools

Allen-Bradley PLCs

HMIs

SCADA

VFDs

Job description

Automation Controls Maintenance Specialist

Location: Gurnee area

Job Type and Duration: Direct Hire

Pay range: $40 - $45/hr (plus OT) - bonus eligible

Hours: 6:30am - 3pm (flexible)

This key role will primarily be responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and enhancing our automation systems, control equipment, and instrumentation to ensure optimal production line performance. Your expertise in PLC programming, industrial automation, and system optimization will play a critical role in maximizing efficiency, reducing downtime, and maintaining high safety and quality standards in our food production processes. You will spend about 30% of your time on PLC work, with the remaining time on mechanical and electrical maintenance of machines.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Maintenance & Troubleshooting: Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of control systems, automation equipment, and instrumentation to ensure continuous and reliable operation of production lines. Work with the maintenance team to diagnose and resolve technical issues quickly, minimizing production disruptions.
2. System Optimization: Collaborate with engineering and production teams to identify opportunities for system improvements, process optimization, and automation enhancements. Implement changes to improve efficiency, consistency, and safety of food manufacturing processes.
3. PLC Programming & Configuration: Develop, program, and configure PLC systems to automate food processing and packaging operations. Ensure seamless PLC integration with existing equipment, HMIs, machinery, and systems for maximum production efficiency.
4. Preventive Maintenance: Execute and improve preventive maintenance programs for automation and control systems. Regularly inspect and calibrate systems to ensure peak performance and reduce unexpected failures.
5. Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, repairs, modifications, and upgrades. Provide detailed reports on system performance and areas for improvement.
6. Safety & Compliance: Adhere to safety protocols, industry standards, and food safety regulations. Identify potential hazards and implement corrective actions to ensure safety and product integrity.
7. Training & Support: Provide operators and staff with training and technical support on automation systems. Foster a culture of knowledge-sharing and continuous improvement.
8. Collaboration: Work closely with engineering, quality assurance, and production teams to meet automation needs and align with production goals.
9. Continuous Improvement: Stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies. Proactively suggest and implement system and process improvements.

Qualifications/Requirements:

• Automation, Mechatronics, or related field or equivalent experience.
• Proven experience in automation controls, PLC programming, and industrial automation, preferably in food production.
• Strong knowledge of control systems, instrumentation, and automation equipment (e.g., PLCs, HMIs, SCADA).
• Experience with preventive maintenance and troubleshooting in fast-paced manufacturing environments.
• Understanding of food safety standards and compliance.
• Ability to analyze production data and system performance for improvements.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks efficiently.

Experience Requirements:

• 3+ years in an Automation and Controls role within manufacturing.
• Experience with high-speed packaging lines and production equipment in food, chemical, or pharmaceutical industries.
• Expertise in PLC troubleshooting and maintenance, especially with Allen-Bradley PLCs.
• Strong understanding of automation systems, HMIs, VFDs, and motor control.
• Basic knowledge of electronics, electrical theory, and instrumentation.
• Skilled in reading electrical and instrumentation schematics and manuals.
• Attention to detail and commitment to safety and quality.

Our benefits program supports healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, 401k, paid leave, tuition reimbursement, and more.

ESPO Corporation
www.espocorp.com
Phone: [phone]
View all jobs: www.espocorp.com/jobs

Leaders in Technical Recruiting & Staffing since 1965. We value diversity and are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration regardless of race, color, religion, gender, or other protected characteristics.