Automation Engineer - Robotics, PLCs & Vision in Mfg

Keystone Distinction Group; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive hourly or salaried compensation

Full-time position with benefits

Job summary

A leading custom plastic injection molding manufacturer near Chicago is seeking an experienced Automation Technician/Engineer. The role involves maintaining, programming, and optimizing automated systems. Candidates should have at least 3 years of relevant experience, strong knowledge of PLC programming and robotics integration, and a commitment to continuous improvement. This full-time position offers competitive compensation with benefits, and occasional overtime may be required during launches or upgrades.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience maintaining or programming automated equipment.
• Strong understanding of electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic systems.
• Ability to read electrical and mechanical schematics.

Responsibilities

• Install, program, and troubleshoot automation equipment.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on machinery.
• Collaborate with teams to improve process reliability and quality.
• Support new equipment commissioning and upgrades.

Skills

PLC programming

Robotics integration

Problem-solving skills

Effective communication

Education

Associate’s degree in Industrial Automation or related field

Tools

Allen-Bradley PLC

Fanuc Robotics

Job description

Automation Technician/Engineer
Our client, a leading custom plastic injection molding manufacturer serving diverse industries just outside of Chicago, IL, is seeking an experienced Automation Technician to support the installation, troubleshooting, and optimization of automated manufacturing systems.

Position Summary

The Automation Technician will be responsible for maintaining, programming, and improving automated production equipment to ensure efficient, reliable, and safe operation. This includes robotics, PLCs, vision systems, and auxiliary devices integrated into high-volume manufacturing environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, program, and troubleshoot automation equipment including robotics, PLC-controlled systems, sensors, and pneumatic components.

• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on automation and related machinery.

• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to improve process reliability, cycle time, and quality.

• Diagnose and resolve issues in electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.

• Support new equipment commissioning, upgrades, and line integrations.

• Assist in developing and maintaining documentation for programs, wiring schematics, and mechanical layouts.

• Train operators and maintenance staff in the safe operation and basic troubleshooting of automated systems.

• Identify opportunities to enhance system performance, reduce downtime, and increase production efficiency.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or technical certification in Industrial Automation, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering Technology, or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience).

• 3+ years of experience maintaining or programming automated equipment in a manufacturing environment.

• Working knowledge of PLC programming and troubleshooting (Allen-Bradley preferred).

• Experience with robotics integration (Fanuc, ABB, or similar).

• Strong understanding of electrical, pneumatic, and mechanical systems.

• Proven ability to read electrical and mechanical schematics and interpret technical documentation.

• Effective communication and problem-solving skills with a commitment to continuous improvement.

• An injection molding background is required for this position.

Compensation & Schedule

• Competitive hourly or salaried compensation based on experience.

• Full-time position with benefits; occasional overtime may be required during equipment launches or upgrades.