Automation Controls Technician – Food Processing

Actalent; Winchester (VA); On-site; USD 93,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Actalent seeks a Controls Technician to support high-speed manufacturing operations in our Winchester, VA facility. You will troubleshoot and resolve automation and control issues, lead updates and commissioning of modifications, and design control solutions for new and existing lines.

The role requires strong hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs, PLC-5, VFDs, HMIs, and SCADA systems, plus the ability to train and mentor maintenance staff.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, Mechatronics, or related field.
• Minimum 5+ years in industrial automation within manufacturing, preferably food/high-speed packaging.
• Strong knowledge of control panels, troubleshooting, and safety practices.
• Proficient with Allen-Bradley PLCs, PLC-5, VFDs, and HMIs.
• Experience with SCADA systems and documentation tools.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and resolve automation and control issues affecting production, quality, and safety.
• Lead engineering updates, testing, and commissioning of automation modifications.
• Design, implement, and recommend automation solutions for existing and new lines.
• Perform preventive maintenance to reduce failures and extend equipment life.
• Document work in CMMS with detailed maintenance orders.
• Coach operators and peers on automation systems and procedures.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to standardize practices.

Skills

Industrial automation

PLC programming

Allen-Bradley PLCs

SCADA systems

Electrical schematics

Diagnostics

Technical leadership

Training others

Packaging equipment

VFDs & HMIs

Education

Associate degree in Electrical/Automation

Tools

RSLogix

FactoryTalk

Ignition

PLC-5

Allen-Bradley software

Job description

Actalent seeks a Controls Technician to support high-speed manufacturing operations in our Winchester, VA facility. You will troubleshoot and resolve automation and control issues, lead updates and commissioning of modifications, and design control solutions for new and existing lines.

The role requires strong hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs, PLC-5, VFDs, HMIs, and SCADA systems, plus the ability to train and mentor maintenance staff.