Automation Technician

BLUE BELL CREAMERIES INC.; Brenham (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

BLUE BELL CREAMERIES INC. in Brenham, TX seeks an Automation Technician to support electrical and automation systems in the plant.

You will maintain, troubleshoot, and improve hardware and software process control systems and instrumentation, while documenting changes for change control and ensuring reliable operation of automated manufacturing and material handling. You will coordinate maintenance and process-improvement projects, implement upgrades, and ensure changes follow change-control

Qualifications

• Associate's degree in power, control, electro-mechanical or related field is required.
• Bachelor's degree in Electronics Engineering Technology or related field is preferred.
• Experience with PLCs, HMIs, and industrial software platforms is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide primary technical support and troubleshooting for electrical and automation systems.
• Maintain and repair hardware and software process control systems and instrumentation.
• Implement corrective measures to maximize system reliability and uptime.
• Support upgrades, modifications, and new installations to improve plant efficiency.
• Maintain automation documentation per change control.
• Communicate effectively to support project development and implementation.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Industrial electricity

PLC online

Program development

Industrial networks

PLCs/HMIs/VFDs

Communication skills

Problem solving

MS Office

CAD/3D modeling

HACCP/GMPs/SOPs

Education

Associate's degree in power/control/electro-mechanical

Bachelor's degree in Electronics Engineering Technology

Tools

Rockwell RSLogix 5/500/5000

Siemens PLCs

Job description

The Automation Technician provides technical support for the electrical and automation systems of the plant. This role is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and improving hardware and software process control systems, including associated instrumentation. Responsibilities include administering upgrades, modifications, and new installations to improve operational efficiency, maintaining documentation in compliance with change control requirements, and supporting reliable operation of automated manufacturing and material handling systems.

Key Responsibilities

Project Coordination

• Conducts estimation, planning, and execution of maintenance and process improvement projects.
• Develops and implements project descriptions, timelines, resource requirements, costs, and other project details.
• Supports upgrades, modifications, and new installations to improve plant process efficiency and reliability.

Maintenance of Automation & Electrical Systems

• Provides primary technical support and troubleshooting for electrical and automation systems.
• Maintains and repairs hardware and software process control systems and associated instrumentation.
• Implements corrective measures to maximize system reliability and uptime.
• Maintains and supports automated equipment, including but not limited to:
  • Laser printers
  • Robotics systems
  • Cranes
  • Automated conveyors
  • Warehousing software
  • Assigned hardening systems

Change Control & Documentation

• Issues, maintains, and updates automation and electrical documentation in accordance with change control procedures.
• Ensures software and system changes follow established guidelines, including written management approval and clearly defined scope.
• Updates process descriptions, P&IDs, and other documentation following implementation of changes.
• Assists with maintenance project scope development and execution by sharing technical knowledge and recommendations.
• Facilitates task and project execution through clear, effective communication.
• Solicits feedback and input from plant associates to support project development and successful implementation.
• Performs other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong troubleshooting skills for industrial automation and process control systems.
• Working knowledge of industrial electricity, including 480 VAC (3-phase) control systems and MCCs.
• Ability to go online with PLCs and interpret logic and system functionality.
• Ability to develop or modify programs to add functionality to process and utility equipment.
• Knowledge of industrial networks such as Ethernet, Profibus, and related configuration and troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, instrumentation, electro-pneumatic devices, and safety circuits.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Effective problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with CAD or 3D modeling tools.
• Understanding of HACCP, GMPs, and SOPs.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in power, control, electro-mechanical, or related field
• 2 years of power, control, or electro-mechanical technical experience in an industrial environment

Preferred Experience

• Experience running small projects and troubleshooting industrial/process control systems.
• Experience with PLCs, HMIs, and industrial software platforms (e.g., Rockwell Software, RS Logix 5/500/5000).
• Familiarity with Siemens PLCs, safety circuits, and system interfacing.
• Knowledge of electronics, power and control voltages, instrumentation, and VFDs.

Physical Requirements

• Mobility: Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, climbing, and working in industrial environments.
• Manual Dexterity: Ability to use hands and arms to operate tools, interface with control panels, and handle wiring and components.
• Lifting and Carrying: Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds, with assistance for heavier items.
• Visual Acuity: Ability to see close details for programming, wiring, schematics, and instrumentation, and distance vision for monitoring equipment and processes.
• Hearing and Speaking: Ability to hear alarms and equipment sounds and communicate clearly in noisy environments.
• Work is performed primarily in manufacturing and industrial plant environments.
• Exposure to electrical systems, automation equipment, moving machinery, noise, vibration, dust, and varying temperatures.
• May work indoors, outdoors, at heights, or in confined spaces as required.
• Use of required personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory.
• Work environment subject to change based on duties performed.

*IND

Education

Bachelors or better in Electronics Engineering Technology or related field.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.