Automation Controls Technician

Becton Dickinson; Sumter (SC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Becton Dickinson in Sumter, SC is seeking an Automation Control Technician to support, maintain, and optimize automated manufacturing systems. You will work hands-on with electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and mechanical systems, with foundational PLC programming and troubleshooting essential.

The role requires a Mechatronics-related education and strong automation knowledge to improve equipment performance and reduce downtime, in a fast-paced production environment.

Qualifications

• Hands-on lab and project experience with analyzing schematics and wiring diagrams.
• Foundational PLC programming and ladder logic interpretation.
• Strong understanding of Ohm’s Law and electrical/mechanical troubleshooting.

Responsibilities

• Assist with Setup and help maintain electrical, pneumatic, and mechanical systems on production equipment.
• Limited interaction with Hydraulic systems depending on the department.
• Perform preventive maintenance to ensure smooth operation and reduce downtime.
• Assist with installation, debugging, and start-up of new equipment in collaboration with Engineering.
• Maintain detailed equipment logs and document process changes.
• Support and adjust vision systems and other automated inspection tools.
• Provide support and collaborate with production teams to resolve equipment issues.

Skills

PLC programming

Ladder logic

Schematic analysis

Electrical troubleshooting

Mechanical troubleshooting

Ohm's Law

Education

Associate degree in Mechatronics or Industrial Electronics

Job description

We are the people who give possibilities purpose BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world. Advancing the world of health™ is our Purpose, and it’s no small feat. It takes the imagination and passion of all of us—from design and engineering to the manufacturing and marketing of our billions of MedTech products per year—to look at the impossible and find transformative solutions that turn dreams into possibilities.

Job Description

The Automation Control Technician is responsible for supporting, maintaining, and optimizing automated manufacturing systems. This role involves hands‑on work with electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and mechanical systems, as well as foundational programming and troubleshooting of PLCs. Ideal candidates will bring a comprehensive educational background in Mechatronics and a strong understanding of industrial automation principles.

Responsibilities

• Assist with Setup and help maintain electrical, pneumatic, and mechanical systems on production equipment.
• Limited interaction with Hydraulic systems depending on the department.
• Perform preventive maintenance to ensure smooth operation and reduce downtime.
• Assist with installation, debugging, and start‑up of new equipment in collaboration with Engineering.
• Maintain detailed equipment logs and document process changes.
• Support and adjust vision systems and other automated inspection tools.
• Provide support and collaborate with production teams to resolve equipment issues.

Equipment Setup & Maintenance

• Successfully help Setup and maintain electrical, pneumatic, and mechanical systems on production equipment by working with operators, line leads, and engineering.
• Ensure all systems are calibrated and function according to specifications. Help implement and maintain machine challenges and parts.
• Preventive Maintenance Execution: Complete scheduled preventive maintenance tasks as outlined in the PM program. Document maintenance activities and flag potential issues before they cause downtime.

Troubleshooting & Repairs

Diagnose and resolve equipment issues using foundational knowledge of: PLC systems Ohm’s Law Hydraulics (Tubes, Injection Molding, Rubber Molding) Use schematics and technical documentation to guide repairs.

Process Improvement Support

Collaborate with Engineering to identify and implement process improvements that enhance output and reduce waste. Provide feedback on equipment performance and suggest optimization opportunities.

Documentation & Reporting

Accurately complete and maintain quality‑related documentation in compliance with regulatory agencies and our customers. Maintain accurate equipment logs, including downtime, maintenance actions, and process changes. Report on performance metrics and issues to supervisors and engineering teams.

Safety & Compliance

Adhere to all safety protocols, environmental regulations, and Quality System Requirements (QSR). Ensure work areas and equipment meet compliance standards.

Team Collaboration

Support and guide production associates during equipment troubleshooting. Communicate effectively with supervisors and cross‑functional teams.

Minimum Requirement: Education

High School Diploma/GED + a minimum of 4 years of Electronic/Industrial/Manufacturing experience or equivalent experience + education Associate degree in Mechatronics, Industrial Electronics, or a related technical field, highly preferred. Minimum Experience: Associate degree in Mechatronics, Industrial Electronics, or a related technical field accepted in lieu of experience or equivalent industry experience in a manufacturing or technical environment, demonstrating proficiency in equipment setup, maintenance, PLC’s and troubleshooting.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, or Abilities (KSA’s)

Hands‑on lab and project experience with: Analyzing schematics and wiring diagrams Understanding and applying Ohm’s Law Troubleshooting electrical and mechanical systems Foundational PLC programming and ladder logic interpretation Communicate effectively with cross‑functional teams, including Engineering, Quality, and Production, to report issues, share updates, and support investigations. Demonstrate strong written communication skills to document troubleshooting steps, corrective actions, and preventive measures.

Why Join Us?

To find purpose in the possibilities, we need people who can see the bigger picture, who understand the human story that underpins everything we do. We welcome people with the imagination and drive to help us reinvent the future of healthcare. At BD, you’ll discover a culture in which you can learn, grow and thrive. We believe that when people connect in person, we learn faster, collaborate more deeply, and build a stronger culture. Join us and enjoy a culture where face‑to‑face collaboration supports your learning, your progress, and your success. To learn more about BD visit https://bd.com/careers.

Becton, Dickinson, and Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, disability, military eligibility or veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

Required Skills Optional Skills . Primary Work Location USA SC - Sumter Additional Locations Work Shift

Becton, Dickinson and Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, disability, military eligibility or veteran status, and other legally‑protected characteristics.