Automation Technician

Nissin Foods (USA) Co., Inc.; Spartanburg (SC); On-site; USD 35,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Nissin Foods (USA) Co., Inc. seeks an Automation Technician to support, troubleshoot, maintain, and improve automated production systems in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. The role emphasizes PLC/HMI programming, servo and VFD control, and Ignition SCADA familiarity.

Ideal candidates have 3+ years of industrial automation experience, the ability to read schematics, and a strong trouble-shooting mindset. Food safety compliance and teamwork are essential in this role.

Qualifications

• Requires 3+ years of industrial automation experience in manufacturing.
• Proficient in PLC programming and troubleshooting.
• Strong HMI development and support experience.
• Servo drive programming and motion control.
• VFD programming and configuration.
• Ability to read electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control drawings.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and repair automated manufacturing equipment to minimize downtime.
• Program, modify, and troubleshoot PLC-controlled systems.
• Develop and maintain HMI applications for production equipment.
• Configure, troubleshoot, and optimize servo motion control systems.
• Program and commission VFDs.
• Diagnose electrical, instrumentation, and control system issues.
• Support and maintain SCADA systems, including Ignition (preferred).
• Configure and troubleshoot industrial Ethernet networks and communication protocols.
• Perform preventive and predictive maintenance on automation systems.
• Assist with installation, startup, and commissioning of new equipment.
• Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, production, and quality teams to improve reliability and efficiency.
• Maintain electrical drawings, PLC backups, and equipment changes documentation.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, quality, OSHA standards.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Servo drive control

VFD programming

Industrial networking

Ignition SCADA (preferred)

Education

Associate degree or technical certification in Automation Technology / Electrical Engineering Technology / Mechatronics

Tools

Ignition SCADA

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a skilled Automation Technician to support, troubleshoot, maintain, and improve automated production systems in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will have experience programming and troubleshooting PLCs, HMIs, servo systems, and variable frequency drives (VFDs). Experience with Ignition SCADA and industrial networking is highly desirable. This role is critical to maximizing equipment uptime, improving production efficiency, and ensuring food safety and quality standards are maintained.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and repair automated manufacturing equipment to minimize downtime.
• Program, modify, and troubleshoot PLC-controlled systems.
• Develop and maintain HMI applications for production equipment.
• Configure, troubleshoot, and optimize servo motion control systems.
• Program and commission Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs).
• Diagnose electrical, instrumentation, and control system issues.
• Support and maintain SCADA systems, including Ignition (preferred).
• Configure and troubleshoot industrial Ethernet networks and communication protocols.
• Perform preventive and predictive maintenance on automation systems.
• Assist with installation, startup, and commissioning of new production equipment.
• Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, production, and quality teams to improve equipment reliability and process efficiency.
• Maintain accurate documentation including electrical drawings, PLC backups, and equipment changes.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety, quality, OSHA, and company safety standards.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree or technical certification in Automation Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3+ years of industrial automation experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong experience with:
  • PLC programming and troubleshooting
  • HMI development and support
  • Servo drive programming and motion control
  • Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) programming and configuration
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control drawings.
• Strong troubleshooting skills involving electrical, mechanical, and automation systems.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to work overtime, weekends.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Ignition SCADA.
• Experience with industrial networking including:
  • Ethernet/IP
  • Modbus TCP
  • And other industrial communication protocols
• Experience with vision systems, barcode scanners, or robotics.
• Previous experience in food, beverage, or consumer packaged goods manufacturing.
• Familiarity with FDA, GMP, HACCP, and SQF requirements.

Desired Skills

• Excellent analytical and troubleshooting abilities.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Continuous improvement mindset with experience supporting Lean Manufacturing initiatives.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and maintenance management software (CMMS).

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb ladders, and work in manufacturing environments for extended periods.
• Comfortable working in hot, cold and wet production areas.
• Ability to work around moving machinery while following all safety procedures.
• Other job duties or tasks as needed.

Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with a variation of temperatures.
• Ability to work near moving mechanical machinery/equipment.
• Exposed to fumes or airborne particles and vibration.
• Ability to work in high, precarious places.
• Other job duties or tasks as needed.

Pay Range

USD $34.66 - USD $41.80 /Yr.

About Us

OUR FOUNDER, MOMOFUKU ANDO There is only one company that can rightfully claim the Pinnacle of Noodledom. Only one company whose founder, faced with a Japanese food shortage after WWII, invented instant ramen and sparked a 3-minute global revolution. Only one whose spirit of innovation continues to provide simple, nourishing delight to billions of people. Only one that has been loved around the world for more than 60 years. There is only one Nissin Foods. NISSIN IN THE U.S. On a trip to the U.S. in 1966, Mr. Ando noticed Americans curiously eating forkfuls of noodles out of cups, instead of using bowls and chopsticks. With that simple observation, the worldwide Cup Noodles® phenomenon was born. Shortly after, Nissin officially put down its roots in the U.S. In 1972, our Gardena, CA, plant started production of Top Ramen®—the first instant ramen manufactured and sold in the U.S. And ever since, Nissin Foods USA has launched a continuous stream of new and innovative products for hungry, noodle-loving Americans.

NISSIN IN THE U.S. WHY NISSIN? Nissin Foods celebrates diversity and inclusion both in our brands and how we do business. Why? Innovation is best driven by diverse perspectives, which create unique results. Respect, steady professional growth, and quality work make our team stronger. We welcome quality folks to join Team Nissin and fulfill our mission to “make people happy by creating delicious, convenient and value-oriented Asian-inspired meal solutions.” If you celebrate innovation and love noodles, you belong here! Nissin Foods USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.