Automation Technician/Engineer

H. T. PROF Group; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full-time with benefits

Overtime flexibility

Job summary

H. T. PROF Group, just outside Chicago, IL, seeks an Automation Technician/Engineer to install, program, and troubleshoot automated manufacturing systems, including robotics, PLCs, and vision systems.

You will perform preventive and corrective maintenance, support equipment commissioning and upgrades, and train operators in safe operation and basic troubleshooting. A 3+ year background in manufacturing automation and an associate degree or technical certification are required.

Qualifications

• Experience with PLCs and troubleshooting in a manufacturing setting.
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
• Ability to read electrical and mechanical schematics.

Responsibilities

• Install, program, and troubleshoot automation equipment including robotics and PLC-controlled systems.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on automation equipment.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to improve process reliability and quality.
• Diagnose electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic system issues and implement solutions.
• Support equipment commissioning, upgrades, and line integrations.
• Create and maintain wiring schematics and mechanical layouts documentation.
• Train operators and maintenance staff on safe operation and basic troubleshooting.

Job description

Automation Technician/Engineer
Our client, a leading custom plastic injection molding manufacturer serving diverse industries just outside of Chicago, IL, is seeking an experienced Automation Technician to support the installation, troubleshooting, and optimization of automated manufacturing systems.

Position Summary

The Automation Technician will be responsible for maintaining, programming, and improving automated production equipment to ensure efficient, reliable, and safe operation. This includes robotics, PLCs, vision systems, and auxiliary devices integrated into high-volume manufacturing environments.

Key Responsibilities

Install, program, and troubleshoot automation equipment including robotics, PLC-controlled systems, sensors, and pneumatic components.

Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on automation and related machinery.

Collaborate with engineering and production teams to improve process reliability, cycle time, and quality.

Diagnose and resolve issues in electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.

Support new equipment commissioning, upgrades, and line integrations.

Assist in developing and maintaining documentation for programs, wiring schematics, and mechanical layouts.

Train operators and maintenance staff in the safe operation and basic troubleshooting of automated systems.

Identify opportunities to enhance system performance, reduce downtime, and increase production efficiency.

Qualifications

Associate’s degree or technical certification in Industrial Automation, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering Technology, or related field (or equivalent hands‑on experience).

3+ years of experience maintaining or programming automated equipment in a manufacturing environment.

Working knowledge of PLC programming and troubleshooting (Allen‑Bradley preferred).

Experience with robotics integration (Fanuc, ABB, or similar).

Strong understanding of electrical, pneumatic, and mechanical systems.

Proven ability to read electrical and mechanical schematics and interpret technical documentation.

Effective communication and problem-solving skills with a commitment to continuous improvement.

• An injection molding background is required for this position.

Compensation & Schedule

Competitive hourly or salaried compensation based on experience.

Full-time position with benefits; occasional overtime may be required during equipment launches or upgrades.