Automation Technician 3rd shift

Jack Link's Protein Snacks; Underwood (IA); On-site; USD 32,263 - 40,336; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental and vision benefits

401k with company match

Paid holidays and PTO

Job summary

Jack Link's Protein Snacks in Underwood, IA is seeking a Maintenance – Automation Technician to keep automated packaging lines running. You will troubleshoot hydraulics, pneumatics, PLCs, perform start‑up checks, and lead maintenance to minimize downtime while following HACCP and SOPs.

The role requires electronics tech training or college coursework, plus hands‑on experience in a distribution/production environment, with strong math, communication, and leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent in a technology field.
• Some college-level Electronics Technology training or related program.
• ASRS experience is a plus.
• Strong math, accounting, and meticulous record keeping.

Responsibilities

• Load products and set up lines for startup.
• Operate and monitor automated equipment including robots.
• Perform preventive maintenance on plant machinery.
• Troubleshoot hydraulics, pneumatics, electrical and PLC systems.
• Document codes, labels, and process changes clearly and accurately.
• Lead start‑up checks and ensure equipment is in good operating condition.
• Follow HACCP, SOPs, and produce quality documentation.

Skills

Attention to detail

Math and accounting

Professional communication

Problem solving

Verbal and written communication

Leadership and motivation

Proficiency with MS Office

Education

Associate degree in related technology

Some electronics technology training

Tools

ASRS experience

Job description

Job Description

Hours: Friday-Sunday, 5:30 am - 6 pm

The role of the Maintenance – Automation Technician is responsible for ensuring all automated machines are operating effectively. The technician stops production when machines are not running effectively, troubleshoots the problem, and finds solutions quickly. Extensive knowledge on hydraulics, pneumatics, systems, and a working knowledge of PLCs is required. This position is carried out in accordance with all company policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Load product into machines as needed to get ready for startup.
• Set up lines correctly.
• Operate auto-palletizing robot.
• Ensure cartoner, case erector, and robotic palletizer are operating effectively.
• Follow good manufacturing practices and HACCP training, along with company SOPs.
• Manage start-up to make sure equipment is in proper operating condition.
• Perform necessary checks at start of shift and at each new product change over; document on paperwork, code date, correct label, upper/lower film, etc.
• Move and install plant machinery and equipment as needed.
• Perform preventative maintenance on all plant machinery and equipment as scheduled.
• Provide detailed descriptions related to troubleshooting and repair of equipment on a PC based system.
• Have extensive experience with pneumatics, hydraulics, electrical, and electronic equipment.
• Ensure product conforms to specifications.
• Ensure products are correctly labeled and identified for proper disposition.
• Prevent/minimize rework and/or inedible product.
• Monitor workflow to maximize machine output efficiencies.
• Keep accurate records of products produced and materials used.
• Suggest improvements; continuously improve the quality of all support activities.
• Tasks will vary as situations and demands change; the lead/foreman/supervisor will assign tasks as necessary.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as necessary.

Required Education & Experience

Some college level training in Electronics Technology or a similar technical field. Combination of experience and skilled trade programs or military training is acceptable.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree in a related technology field
• One year of experience in a distribution center
• One year of training experience or a combination of education and experience
• ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval System) experience

Required Skills, Knowledge and Abilities

• Proven attention to detail demonstrated in a fast-paced environment.
• Good math and accounting skills.
• Proficient in Internet navigation, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Ability to communicate professionally with people at all levels.
• Problem solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Must demonstrate effective leadership, problem solving, facilitation, presentation, and employee motivational skills.

Additional Information

The starting rate for this role is $23.42‑$29.28 hourly. Actual salaries will vary based on several factors, including but not limited to external market data, internal equity, location, and candidate skill set and experience. Base pay is just one component of Jack Link’s Total Rewards package for Team Members. Other rewards may include annual incentive and program‑specific awards. Jack Link’s provides a variety of benefits to eligible Team Members, including medical, dental and vision benefits, life and disability insurance, 401k participation, paid holidays, and paid time off.

Physical Demands

The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, bend, squat, and reach. Frequently lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds. Exposure to the odor and possible contact of beef jerky, spices, and sauces. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Environment

The work environment is a plant/office setting with varying degrees of temperatures and noise levels. Exposure to manufacturing equipment movement and wet/slippery floors. Part of the job is conducted in a climate‑controlled building but also includes work on the roof and maintaining the grounds during inclement weather. Travel to other facilities may be required.

EEO Statement

Jack Link’s provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic that is protected by federal, state or local law.

Jack Link’s is a participant in the federal E‑Verify program to confirm the identity and employment authorization of all newly hired employees. For information about the E‑Verify program, please visit http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify/employees.

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to generally describe the nature and level of work to be performed by employees in this position. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and skills required of employees performing this role.