Automation Controls Tech I - PLC Startups & Maintenance

SunOpta; Allentown (Lehigh County); On-site; USD 45,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid Family leave

Paid maternity leave

401(k) with Match

Voluntary Life, Accident, Critical Ill

Hospital indemnity

Paid Holidays

Tuition assistance

Short-term and Long-term Disability

Job summary

SunOpta Plant in Allentown, PA is hiring an Automation Controls Technician I to support installation, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of PLC-based control systems and industrial equipment.

This entry-level role works under close supervision to ensure manufacturing and facility automation systems operate safely, efficiently and reliably, with opportunities to learn from senior technicians and engineers.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associate degree or technical certificate in Automation, Electronics, Mechatronics, or related field preferred.
• 0-2 years of experience in industrial maintenance, automation, or controls (internship or apprenticeship acceptable).
• Basic understanding of PLCs, industrial controls, and electrical systems.

Responsibilities

• Assist with installation, startup, and maintenance of PLC-based control systems.
• Troubleshoot basic electrical, mechanical, and control system issues.
• Support preventive and corrective maintenance on automated equipment.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals.
• Perform basic PLC monitoring, I/O checks, and parameter adjustments.
• Assist with sensor, actuator, VFD, HMI, and motor troubleshooting.
• Document maintenance activities, repairs, and system changes.
• Follow safety procedures, lockout/tagout (LOTO), and company standards.
• Work collaboratively with maintenance, engineering, and operations teams.
• Escalate complex issues to senior technicians or engineers as needed.

Skills

PLC basics

Electrical systems

Troubleshooting

Reading schematics

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate degree or technical certificate in Automation/Electronics/Mechatronics

Tools

Allen-Bradley PLC

Siemens PLC

HMIs

VFDs

Job description

SunOpta Plant in Allentown, PA is hiring an Automation Controls Technician I to support installation, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of PLC-based control systems and industrial equipment.

This entry-level role works under close supervision to ensure manufacturing and facility automation systems operate safely, efficiently and reliably, with opportunities to learn from senior technicians and engineers.