Automation Technician (Controls)

Howmet Aerospace Inc.; La Porte (IN); On-site; USD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Howmet Aerospace Inc. in La Porte, IN is seeking an Area Leader to support PLC, HMI and Robotic control systems within a state-of-the-art investment casting facility. The role emphasizes reliability, productivity, and applying automation technologies to plant processes.

Responsibilities include maintaining records for robot/automation programs, aiding maintenance, improving safety and OEE, and collaborating with production teams to plan activities.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in a technical discipline or related field experience.
• US work authorization required; visa sponsorship not available.
• Must read/interpret Product Criteria (PC) and Activity Instructions (AI).
• Team player, able to work under general supervision.
• Export-controlled data access contingent on eligibility.
• Proficiency with Rockwell Automation or similar automation software is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Maintain records for all robot/automation programs and changes.
• Provide PLC, HMI and Robotic system support in plants.
• Assist maintenance techs with troubleshooting issues.
• Improve overall plant safety and equipment OEE.
• Collaborate with Production and other departments to plan activities.

Skills

Robotic experience

Electrical/controls aptitude

Multi-tasking

Prioritize work

Verbal/written communication

Education

Associate degree in a technical discipline

Tools

Rockwell Automation

MS Word/Excel/PowerPoint/Project/Outlook

Job description

• Locations 1110 East Lincoln Way, Laporte, IN, 46350-3954, US (On-site)
• Job Schedule Full time
• Export-Controlled Data This position entails access to export-controlled items and employment offers are conditioned upon an applicant's ability to lawfully obtain access to such items

Responsibilities

We’re a company of innovators and makers. Howmet Aerospace is transforming the aerospace and transportation industries.Join our team and help us engineer the next generation of sustainable travel.

Our state-of-the-art investment casting facility in La Porte, Indiana is seeking Area Leaders to join our team.Nestled halfway between South Bend and Chicago, along the shores of Lake Michigan - our facility in La Porte, Indiana supplies jet engine components to some of the most trusted names in the Aerospace industry.

This position is primarily responsible for providing support for PLC systems, HMI’s and robotic control systems.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Key emphasis on maintaining and improving reliability and productivity of robotic/automated systems.
• Providing specialized technical expertise in the application and use of material handling, control, and automation technology for plant facilities and processes.
• Must be able to read and interpret Product Criteria (PC) and Activity Instructions (AI).
• Must be able to function as a member of a team and be able to work under general supervision.
• Must be able to maintain expected quality levels.
• Comply with all site required policies and procedures including but not limited to: EHS, Quality, Code of Conduct and the LaPorte Employee Guidebook.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Job responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Maintain accurate records for all robot/automation programs and all changes to these systems.
• Provide support for PLC and HMI and Robotic systems in the plants.
• Provide support to the maintenance techs troubleshooting issues.
• Improving the overall safety of the plant’s equipment and processes.
• Work closely with Production, Planning and other departments (Purchasing, Maintenance, or outside vendors) to plan work activities.
• Continuing to learn the craft of mechanical, electrical, controls and automation.
• Monitor safe work practices.
• Maintain and improve equipment OEE.
• Performs other work-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

Associate degree in a technical discipline or related field experience.

• Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
• This position entails access to export-controlled items and employment offers are conditioned upon an applicant's ability to lawfully obtain access to such items.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Proficiency in varying control and automation programs including Rockwell Automation or similar control and automation software.
• Robotic experience.
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project, Outlook.
• Ability to integrate new devices into legacy systems.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic understanding of hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical control systems in a diverse industrial environment.
• Strong electrical/controls aptitude.
• Familiarity with a wide variety of facility infrastructure systems.
• Ability to rapidly grasp concepts and understand processes.
• Ability to multi-task.
• Ability to prioritize work assignments.

About Us

Compensation and Benefits:

If a pay range is identified for this job, it is based on a good faith estimate at the time of this posting. Actual compensation is subject to variation due to factors such as education, experience, skillset, market/business considerations, and/or location.

Howmet Aerospace offers a competitive benefits package to support the health, financial well-being, and professional growth of our employees. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision benefits coverage, including FSA and HSA account options
• Pre-tax and Roth 401(k) retirement savings plans offering employer matching funds and a separate employer retirement contribution
• Paid holidays and vacation time (eligibility, accrual, and usage are discretionary and governed by applicable policies)
• Paid parental leave and adoption assistance programs
• Life insurance and disability coverage plans
• Optional coverage plans for auto, home, legal, identity theft, and pet insurance
• Tuition Assistance Program and ongoing professional development opportunities
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Our Story:

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel efficiency and lightweighting, contributing to our customers’ success and making a positive impact on the world. To learn more about the way Howmet Aerospace Inc. is advancing the sustainability of our customers, markets, and communities where we operate, review the 2025 Environmental Social and Governance report at www.howmet.com/esg-report . Follow: LinkedIn , Twitter , Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube .

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.