Automation Controls Technician (PLC/HMI)

First Solar Inc.; South Carolina; On-site; USD 37,000 - 53,000; Full time

Job summary

First Solar Inc. is seeking an entry-level Automation Technician to support manufacturing operations and assist with equipment implementation and startup.

The role involves PLC/HMI programming and troubleshooting of control systems, with a rotating 36/48 hour weekly schedule on AM or PM shifts. The candidate will work on electrical/electronic controls within a manufacturing environment, reading drawings, and applying safety standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of manufacturing equipment electrical/electronic/controls experience.
• Associate/Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Robotics, Industrial Controls, or Electronic Engineering (preferred)
• No Degree - Must have 5+ years verifiable experience in a related field (e.g., Semiconductors, Automotive).

Responsibilities

• Support manufacturing facilities, including remote support of world-wide facilities.
• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain electrical control systems for manufacturing equipment.
• Coordinate installation and MES integration events.
• Maintain and update manufacturing process tool electrical drawings; track equipment changes.
• Implement software changes/upgrades specified by the Controls Engineering Department.
• Identify and present solutions for control problems and continuous improvement.

Skills

Read electrical drawings

PLC programming

AutoCAD

HMI (FactoryTalk View ME)

Control network knowledge (ControlNet/

Education

Associate/Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Robotics, Industrial Controls, or Electronic Engineering

No Degree - 5+ years related experience

Tools

AutoCAD

Rockwell Automation tools

FactoryTalk View ME

Proface HMI

Job description

First Solar Inc. is seeking an entry-level Automation Technician to support manufacturing operations and assist with equipment implementation and startup.

The role involves PLC/HMI programming and troubleshooting of control systems, with a rotating 36/48 hour weekly schedule on AM or PM shifts. The candidate will work on electrical/electronic controls within a manufacturing environment, reading drawings, and applying safety standards.