Automation Technician

ITW Automotive; Frankfort (IL); On-site; USD 45,460 - 57,859; Full time

Job summary

ITW Automotive in Frankfort is seeking an Automation Technician II responsible for mechanical assembly of complex automated machinery. Candidates must have a minimum of 4 years of experience in manufacturing technologies, excellent problem-solving skills, and proficiency with PLCs and robotic systems.

This role includes responsibilities such as assembling and optimizing automated machinery, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and maintaining a clean work environment. ITW offers competitive compensation ranging from $33.00 to $42.00 per hour.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of equipment and/or automation maintenance experience.
• 2 years of troubleshooting PLC based control systems.
• Ability to read blueprints and follow diagrams.

Responsibilities

• Assemble, wire, and install automated machinery.
• Diagnose and repair electro-mechanical issues.
• Perform preventative maintenance and document procedures.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Mechanical troubleshooting

Teamwork

Automation principles understanding

3D Experience (SolidWorks)

Education

High school diploma

Technical courses

Tools

PLC programming

Hand tools

Power tools

Cognex camera setup

Job description

Position Summary

Automation Technician II is responsible for the mechanical assembly of complex, custom automated machinery systems in compliance with required specifications. This role requires a strong understanding of automation principles, excellent problem‑solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with engineering and production teams. Candidate must have 4+ years of practical experience in manufacturing technologies as an Assembly Automation Technician, or similar role in a manufacturing environment, with solid mechanical troubleshooting skills, including knowledge of motors, drives, sensors, and control circuits. Must have minimum 2+ years of practical experience with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and robotic systems and safety protocols. The Automation Technician will support our Frankfort facility and will range from simple hand test fixtures to complex robotic insert molding systems.

Primary Responsibilities

• Assembly & Installation: Assemble, wire, and install high‑speed automated machinery, including PLC panels, robotics, pneumatic systems, and conveyors.
• Automation Programming & Optimization: Program, calibrate, and update PLC (e.g., Ladder Logic) and robotic software to maximize production efficiency. Includes camera setup and adjustment (Cognex).
• Troubleshooting: Diagnose and repair electro‑mechanical, pneumatic, and software issues to minimize machine downtime.
• Maintenance: Perform in‑process maintenance, including wiring repairs and sensor adjustments, to ensure continuous, reliable operation. Dismantles machines or equipment to gain access to and remove defective parts, replaces defective parts and motors, and adjusts feed mechanisms. Performs these duties with the aid of such equipment as hoists, cranes, hand tools and power tools.
• Preventative Maintenance: Plan maintenance and repair procedures. Diagnose problems. Determine what repairs are required and what equipment, supplies, and skills are needed to complete the repairs. Perform preventative maintenance on equipment and document in PM system.
• Draft and submit material requisition or make components for assigned repairs.
• Assist with maintaining low scrap on assembly equipment related to machine performance.
• Operate machine tools as required to install and repair equipment including common tool room equipment such as lathe, mill, surface grinder, etc.
• Assist in training employees in basic machine operations, changeovers and Red Rabbit procedures required to fully run equipment unassisted.
• Recommend cost‑saving improvements, labor and ergonomic improvements.
• Ensure comprehensive and complete communication with oncoming shift of machine status.
• Maintain compliance with IATF 16949, ISO, and Safety Policies/Standards.
• Reads, understands and follows diagrams, sketches, operation manuals and manufacturer’s specifications to repair and maintain machinery and mechanical equipment such as, but not limited to: engines, motors, pneumatic tools, conveyor systems and production machines and equipment using hand tools, power tools and precision measuring and testing instruments.
• Document all work in a neat and legible manner. Ensure that all documents are kept in accordance with department procedures.
• Performs additional tasks as assigned by management or as the situation requires.
• Maintain a clean and safe work area for all employees.
• 3D Experience – prefer SolidWorks knowledge.
• Laser & ultrasonic welding equipment and process knowledge is a plus.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; plus technical courses preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years of equipment and/or automation maintenance experience required.
• Minimum of 4 years of troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems experience required.
• Minimum of 2 years of troubleshooting electro‑mechanical control systems and PLC based control systems, knowledge of PLC’s, PLC troubleshooting.
• Experienced in general mechanical maintenance of production machinery to include reading blueprints, pneumatics, hydraulics, and ordering machine parts.
• Possess minimum knowledge of electrical wiring repairs and installation, AC/DC controls, blueprints, schematic diagrams, pneumatics.
• Ability to use a variety of small hand tools, power tools, hoists, and material handling equipment.
• Team‑player who demonstrates comfortability working in a team‑based environment, and will possess good written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interact with varying levels of employees with focus on customer service.
• Must demonstrate a positive attitude with a continuous improvement mindset and energy, passion, and enthusiasm.
• Self‑motivated with excellent organizational and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong PC skills, including proficiency with Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Compensation Information

$33.00 - $42.00

ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential.

As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.