Automation Specialist - Flex Shift

Ventura-Coastal; Tipton (IA); On-site; USD 120,347,136 - 128,943,360; Full time

Job summary

Ventura Coastal is seeking an Automation Technician to support two manufacturing plants, providing instrumentation and PLC programming expertise. You will perform diagnostics, calibration checks, and component repairs to ensure SQF/HACCP compliance.

The role involves after-hours service calls and collaboration with the automation team to drive process improvements. You’ll be part of a small automation engineering group, writing PLC code, documenting procedures, and supporting plant maintenance

Qualifications

• Practical experience implementing systems and developing PLC code.
• Experience troubleshooting automation systems in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong organizational and planning skills with problem solving.

Responsibilities

• Understand, troubleshoot, document & maintain control networks under supervision.
• Perform routine diagnostics and calibration checks on automated systems.
• Repair components such as sensors and wiring as needed.
• Provide daily support to plant operators, supervisors and QA/PM teams.
• Assist with upgrades and implementation of new automation systems.
• Maintain change control and accurate operating documentation.

Skills

PLC programming

Instrumentation

Diagnostics

Documentation

Teamwork

Microsoft Office

Education

High school diploma with electronics/automation training

Tools

Aveva InTouch

RSLogix 5000

Job description

Location: 531 West Poplar Avenue| Tipton | CA | 93272Hourly Rate: $42.00 - $45.00 (Overtime and weekends may be required)We are hiring for a Flex Shift position which will cover all three shifts where needed.Job SummaryThe objective of this position is to support the senior OT Solution Architect on instrumentation and troubleshooting in the two manufacturing plants to reduce human intervention and maximize efficiency. The technician will perform routine diagnostic checks, and regular calibration checks on all automated systems within the two manufacturing plants.As a member of a small automation engineering team, it is essential that this person has instrumentation skills and an intermediate level of PLC skills. The ability to work as a member of a team is essential. The technician will be tasked with writing small PLC programs and coordinating with plant maintenance management personnel to improve and drive process improvements in the plant.The position is essential for timely calibration on equipment to ensure compliance with SQF and HACCP standards.The technician must be self-motivated and keep up to date with the necessary business and technical skills to be a valuable and contributing member of the automations team.The technician may be assigned to either plant as needed but will have Tipton as their primary location. The Automation Technician can expect to receive service calls after hours as needed.The technician will report to the Senior OT Solution Architect for day-to-day focus and for overall direction.Primary ResponsibilitiesFood Safety is the responsibility of all Ventura Coastal manufacturing employees. All Ventura Coastal manufacturing employees must be aware of CCPs in their area and how to document them appropriately. All staff must report food safety and quality problems to their immediate supervisor in charge during their shift.Understand, troubleshoot, document & maintain control networks under the direction of the Senior OT Solution Architect.Perform routine diagnostic checks on all automated systems.Perform calibration checks as required in accordance with OEM recommendations and FDA standards.Repair and/or replace any necessary components such as sensors or electrical wiring.Understand the juice, oil and peel process flow such that the technician can assist the automation team and/or maintenance technicians with necessary repairs.Provide daily support for the Plant Operators, Supervisors, and Quality Control & Project Managers as needed to move forward projects and address production issues.Working with the automation engineering team performs minor PLC and electrical adjustments as required.Continually assess production processes and their technical implementations. Document areas of opportunity for potential process improvement and how to better leverage the process or application functionality so respective processes have a defined, articulated roadmap to optimization.Provide technical support to all functional areas to optimize and streamline the technology and processes supporting plant automation.Adhere to existing change control and change management processes.Maintain clear documentation for both system and business operating procedures.Assist with upgrades and implementation of new systems.Must grow skills and stay current with new technology related to plant automations.Promotes safety in the department and ensures all personnel adhere to all safety regulations, including the use of all essential personal protective equipment.Demonstrates reliable attendance, consistent punctuality and a conscientious attitude always.Performs other duties and assignments as directed.Qualifications and Education RequirementsPleasant and professional demeanor to work with end users in a dynamic environment.Practical experience implementing systems and developing PLC code.Developing & troubleshooting Aveva InTouch & RSLogix 5000 Systems.Exceptional organizational and planning skills, analytical abilities, problem solving, and follow-through.Able to work under pressure and with minimal supervision keeping management informed with timely project status reports.Ability to quickly assess and resolve conflicts and complaints and provide appropriate follow-up.Commitment to excellence in service, performance and execution.Strong process discipline and experience with use cases and accurate analysis.Troubleshoot reporting and data discrepancy issues quickly and accurately.Ability to thoroughly test changes and validate tag data.An advanced PC user and proficient in Microsoft Office products.Strong verbal and written communication as well as presentations skills.It must be timely, articulate and well organized.High School diploma with some post-secondary school training in electronics and automation.2-5 years’ experience with food processing systems and equipment.Process Manufacturing for Food & Beverage Industry support experience a plus.Perform other duties as assigned and required.Physical RequirementsThe ability to meet flexible and changing priorities and the ability to work under pressure is a must. Sitting, standing, and walking. Minimal climbing, lifting and bending. Some travel is required. Could be on call 24/7 to handle process issues.This job description is intended to provide guidelines for job expectations and the employee's ability to perform in the position described. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate. This document does not represent a contract of employment, and the Company reserves the right to change this job description and/or assign tasks for the employee to perform, as the Company may deem appropriate.