Automation Specialist

Dart Container; Leola (PA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

401(k) with company matching

Paid vacation

Paid holidays

Short-term disability

Tuition assistance

Product discounts

Job summary

Dart Container is seeking an experienced Automation Specialist to install, maintain, troubleshoot, and improve automated production systems for a new Leola operation. The role involves supporting startup and commissioning of equipment, diagnosing complex electromechanical issues, and reading wiring diagrams and schematics.

You will lead process improvements, collaborate with engineering, maintenance, and production teams, and apply SPC, 8D, and DOE methodologies.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Automation or related field is preferred.
• Alternate: high school diploma with 5 years of automation experience.

Responsibilities

• Install, maintain, repair, test, and troubleshoot automated production equipment and computer-controlled systems.
• Support startup, commissioning, and optimization of new equipment and automation systems.
• Diagnose complex mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, controls, and instrumentation issues.
• Troubleshoot PLCs, including reading and modifying ladder logic.
• Read, interpret, create, and update schematics, wiring diagrams, and blueprints.
• Analyze equipment and test data to identify root causes and corrective actions.
• Lead and support process improvement initiatives and cross-functional projects.
• Partner with engineering, maintenance, production and other teams to improve reliability, efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Apply problem-solving and quality methodologies such as SPC, 5S, 8D, FMEA, RCA, Gage R&R, and DOE.

Job description

We’re looking for an experienced Automation Specialist to help install, maintain, troubleshoot, and improve the automated systems that will support this exciting new operation.

If you enjoy solving complex problems, working with advanced technology, and finding ways to make equipment run better, this is an opportunity to make a real impact from the start.

What You’ll Do:

• Install, maintain, repair, test, and troubleshoot automated production equipment and computer-controlled systems.
• Support the startup, commissioning, and optimization of new equipment and automation systems.
• Diagnose complex mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, controls, and instrumentation issues.
• Troubleshoot PLCs, including reading and modifying ladder logic.
• Read, interpret, create, and update mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic schematics, wiring diagrams, and blueprints.
• Analyze equipment and test data to identify root causes and develop corrective actions.
• Lead and support process improvement initiatives and cross-functional projects.
• Partner with engineering, maintenance, production, and other teams to improve equipment reliability, efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Apply problem-solving and quality methodologies such as SPC, 5S, 8D, FMEA, Root Cause Analysis, Gage R&R, and DOE.

What You’ll Need:

• Associate degree in Automation or a related field and 3 years of automated manufacturing equipment installation and maintenance experience, OR
• High school diploma or equivalent and 5 years of equipment installation and maintenance experience, preferably in automated manufacturing.
• Strong ability to read, interpret, and create mechanical and electrical diagrams, schematics, and blueprints.
• Thorough understanding of NFPA 70 Electrical Code.
• Advanced knowledge of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, industrial controls, and instrumentation systems.
• Advanced PLC troubleshooting skills, including the ability to modify ladder logic.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and communicate technical information clearly.

Building 12 will feature four new trim-in-place thermoforming lines with packaging automation, two dedicated PP clear cup lines with in-line printing, and two extruders capable of running PS and PP materials.

Installation and hiring are underway, with line commissioning and testing planned for Q1 2027 and full production targeted for Q2 2027. This is an opportunity to be involved as the new equipment comes online and help shape how the operation runs from the beginning.

Bring your automation expertise to a growing team and help turn new technology into a high-performing production operation at Leola.

Overview:

Dart makes everyday products that give people the freedom to enjoy the food & drinks they love, wherever they are. From to-go containers and dinnerware to tamper-evident food packaging and even the red SOLO cup, Dart products have been keeping people on the go and having fun for 65 years. We’re a family-owned, family-focused company of 12,000 employees united by a shared set of values and dedicated to providing exceptional customer service. Headquartered in Mason, MI, with 30 locations in three countries, we’re proud of our ability to innovate, manufacture and lead the way with each new generation of quality products.

Benefits:

Dart Container full-time employees enjoy great benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) with company matching contributions, paid vacation, paid holidays, short-term disability, tuition assistance, product discounts and more.

Dart Container is a drug-free workplace. Candidates are subject to a drug test (excluding THC*/marijuana/cannabis) and background check at the time of offer.

*THC testing ONLY when such testing is required by law.
Dart Container is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all candidates for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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