Automation Tech/Panel shop

The Contractor Consultants; Holdrege (NE); On-site; Full time

Job summary

A family-owned electrical contractor seeks an Automation Technician / Panel Shop Specialist to design and troubleshoot industrial automation systems. Candidates should excel in independent problem-solving and have experience with motor controls, PLCs, and panel fabrication. The role offers competitive pay, full-time hours, and a supportive, family-oriented work environment.

Benefits

Medical & Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off

Tool Account & Personal Tool Replacement Program

Training & Certifications

Company Vehicle / Mileage Reimbursement

Uniforms & Safety Gear Provided

Qualifications

• Prior experience in industrial automation or panel building required.
• Strong understanding of VFDs, PLCs, and HMIs essential.
• Detail-oriented with strong documentation habits.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot industrial motor control circuits.
• Design and build UL 508A control panels.
• Program and troubleshoot PLCs and HMIs.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Attention to detail

Organization

Self-motivation

Tools

CAD software

PLC programming software

Job description

️ Power Up Industrial Innovation - Join Red Fern Electric as an Automation Tech / Panel Shop Specialist!

Position Title: Automation Technician / Panel Shop
Company Name:Red Fern Electric
Pay Range:$26-$28/hr
Industry: Electrical contractor (Commercial, Industrial, Government or Federal)
Location:Callaway, NE

Job Overview
Red Fern Electric is seeking a talented and driven Automation Technician / Panel Shop Specialist to join our growing team. This role focuses on the design, assembly, and troubleshooting of industrial automation systems. You'll work with motor control circuits, PLCs, HMI software, VFDs, and security systems-solving complex technical challenges across a wide array of project types. The ideal candidate brings a combination of technical ability, logical reasoning, and a strong independent work ethic. If you're excited about controls, automation, and precision panel building, we want to hear from you.

Who We AreRed Fern Electric is a family-owned electrical contractor, and a listed Panel Shop based in Callaway, NE. Our projects span everything from small farms to large corporations, municipalities, and government facilities-offering a level of variety and learning unmatched in the region. We believe in supporting our employees like family, offering flexibility for life events while maintaining a high-performance, accountable culture. Join a company where your work is valued and your career can thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and analyze industrial motor control circuits and power systems
• Diagnose and repair variable speed drive (VFD) issues and perform related adjustments
• Design and build UL 508A industrial control panels with attention to documentation and compliance
• Use CAD software for panel layouts and wiring diagrams
• Program and troubleshoot PLCs and HMIs using relevant software
• Set up and support industrial security camera systems and touch screen interfaces
• Perform panel fabrication duties, including layout, wiring, labeling, and testing
• Maintain detailed documentation and clean shop conditions for UL 508A compliance
• Complete assigned tasks independently and without supervision
• Travel occasionally for field installation or support (expenses covered)
• Work overtime and occasional weekends as needed

Qualifications

• Prior experience in an industrial automation or panel-building role required
• Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to work through problems independently
• Familiarity with VFDs, PLCs, HMIs, and CAD software
• Ability to work with little supervision and manage personal task lists efficiently
• Not listed on the sex offender registry (due to school and municipal project work)
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and documentation habits
• Excellent work ethic, self-motivation, and sense of accountability
• Strong understanding of UL 508A standards is a plus
• No specific licenses required, but Journeyman A is preferred.
• Weekly Pay Cycle
• Medical & Vision Insurance (Employee Premiums Covered)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation after 1 year, Sick Days, Holidays)
• Training & Certifications (OSHA, Manufacturer Training, Fall Protection, etc.)
• Tool Account & Personal Tool Replacement Program
• Tech Package (Smartphone or Tablet Provided)
• Company Events (BBQs, Holiday Parties, Fishing Trips, Concerts, etc.)
• Company Vehicle / Mileage Reimbursement (where applicable)
• Uniforms & Safety Gear Provided

Schedule

• Full-Time
• Monday to Friday (Occasional travel, weekends, or overtime as needed)

Work Location

• Occasional travel to job sites as required

Equal Opportunity Statement

Red Fern Electric is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, or any other protected status. We foster a respectful, inclusive, and team-focused environment where employees are treated as valued individuals.

Want to put your automation and controls skills to the test? Apply today to join Red Fern Electric and be part of something dynamic and rewarding.