Automation Technician

Sofidel SpA; Duluth (MN); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Compensation

Health Insurance

PTO

401(k) Safe Harbor 3%; Match up to 15%

Safe Work Environment

Employee Assistance

Job summary

The Sofidel Group in Duluth, MN is seeking an Automation/Electrical Technician to install, maintain, and upgrade automation systems across the production line. You will troubleshoot servo motors, sensors, and control components, document maintenance activities, and report on automation capabilities and opportunities to leadership.

This specialist role requires hands-on engineering experience in robotics and production automation, with opportunities to collaborate with vendors and internal teams

Qualifications

• Three years of strong industrial automation background in a manufacturing environment.
• Technical degree preferred; hands-on automation experience.
• Knowledge of AB/Rockwell PLCs and DC drives; reading electrical drawings and ladder logic.

Responsibilities

• Install, maintain, and replace automation systems at key points in the production process.
• Troubleshoot servos, sensors, and control components.
• Log equipment usage, parts replacement, and scheduled maintenance.
• Periodically report to leadership regarding automation capabilities and status.
• Work with internal and external resources to resolve issues quickly.
• Interpret blueprints, specifications, diagrams, and schematics to troubleshoot control systems.
• Allen Bradley & Siemens PLC/DCS programming, troubleshooting, and repair.
• Collect PLC input and output data to monitor equipment efficiency for maintenance planning.
• Complete documentation to ensure control documentation is correct and up-to-date.
• Update drawings to reflect process improvements and field changes.
• Assist management/engineering on projects as needed.
• Adhere to safe work practices and maintain product quality.
• Manage contractors and vendors to monitor and improve efficiency.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Industrial automation

Electrical systems

Robotics

PLC/DCS programming

Diagnostics & troubleshooting

Education

Technical degree in Electrical/Electronics/Automation

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Rockwell DC Drives

AB PLCs

Siemens PLC

Control Logic

Job description

Job Category: Manufacturing & Engineering

Location: Duluth, MN, US, 55807

Date: Aug 22, 2026

The Sofidel Group

Sofidel, headquartered in Porcari (Lucca), is a global leader in tissue paper production. With a presence in 12 European countries and 11 U.S. states, we employ over 9,000 people dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity. Our products, including toilet paper, paper towels, and napkins, are available in more than 50 countries.

We proudly own well-known brands such as Regina, Nicky, Sopalin, Le Trèfle, Hakle, Softis, Nalys, Cosynel, and KittenSoft, while also producing for private-label retailers. With the Papernet brand, we also cater to the "Away-from-Home" sector, ensuring quality solutions for businesses and public spaces.

Wherever you are, Sofidel is there, bringing comfort, quality, and sustainability to everyday life!

Position Overview

Sofidel America of Duluth, MN is looking for an Automation/Electrical Technician to join our dynamic team. As part of our team, you will install, maintain, and replace automation systems throughout the production process. You will troubleshoot component parts, including motion sensors, control components, photosensors, and other vital technology. In addition to maintaining smooth operation, you will operate as a subject matter expert (SME) for leadership and key decision-makers, delivering reports on current automation capabilities and future opportunities. This is a specialized position, and our ideal applicant has considerable experience and education in engineering, robotics, and production automation.

Job Responsibilities

Automation Technician Duties and Responsibilities

• Install, maintain, and replace automation systems at key points in the production process
• Troubleshoot non-functioning components including servos, sensors, and control components
• Log equipment usage, parts replacement, and scheduled maintenance to ensure maximum functionality
• Periodically report to leadership regarding automation capabilities and status
• Work with internal and external resources to resolve issues as quickly and effectively as possible.
• Interpret blueprints, specifications, diagrams, and schematics to troubleshoot and maintain process control systems.
• Allen Bradley & Siemen’s PLC/DCS programming, troubleshooting, and repair.
• Collect PLC input and output data to monitor the efficiency of equipment to assist in the development & planning of maintenance & operations.
• Complete the necessary documentation to ensure control documentation is correct and follow all necessary control procedures.
• Update drawings to reflect process improvements and field changes.
• Assist and consult with the management/engineering on projects as needed.
• Adhere to safe work practices, maintain sanitary conditions and ensure that product quality is maintained.
• Manage and work with contractors and vendors to monitor and improve efficiency and output.
• Other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

• Technical Degree in Electrical, Electronics Technology, Electro-Mechanical or Automation/Engineering preferred
• Experience in a production environment, particularly as it relates to automation technology
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
• Three years of strong industrial automation background in a manufacturing environment.
• High school diploma or general education degree (GED) is required
• Strong automation controls background is preferred - AB/Rockwell DC Drive; AB/Rockwell PLC’s, Control Logic; Reading Electrical Drawings and Ladder Logic.
• Experience with variable frequency drives and smart field instruments (i.e. pressure, flow, temperature, level and analytical transmitters, valve positioners, valve actuators and PID controllers) is necessary.
• Understanding of the working components of PLC/DCS systems.

Company Benefits

• Competitive Compensation
• Paid and Unpaid Breaks
• Health Insurance
• PTO
• 401(k): Safe Harbor: 3%; Match: (35% match up to 15% employee contribution)
• Positive and Safe Work Environment
• Professional Employee Assistance
• Health and Financial Wellness Programs

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when in the plant and warehouse areas. PPE will include safety shoes, eye and ear protection, reflective vests and hairnets or hats along with any other necessary protection. Temperatures in the plant/warehouse can range a great deal from season to season. The employee will be exposed to paper dust and employees will also be exposed to noise levels that will require hearing protection.

• This role requires frequent physical activity related to- handling/finger use, reaching outward or above shoulders, carrying, pushing or pulling weight in 10 to 20 lbs. This role will also require standing, walking, sitting squatting or kneeling, and bending to reach or see work areas.

Other Physical Requirements

• Vision (Near, Distance, Color, Peripheral, Depth Perception)
• Sense of Sound (within normal range) and touch

WHAT WE OFFER

• The chance to work in an international Group and a concrete opportunity for professional growth
• A dynamic environment based on teamwork
• Sofidel Language Learning Programme through innovative digital platform for you and one additional user, such as family member or friend.