Automation Technician I – Manufacturing Controls

First Solar Inc.; New Iberia, Northern (LA, KY); Hybrid; USD 77,220,000 - 110,121,000; Full time

Job summary

First Solar is seeking an entry-level Automation Technician to support manufacturing operations, assist with equipment startup, PLC/HMI programming, and troubleshooting of control systems. The role shifts between AM and PM, with a rotating 36/48-hour schedule and some weekend work on a rotating basis.

The candidate should have 2+ years in manufacturing controls or an equivalent, with an associate or bachelor’s in Electrical/Robotics/Industrial Controls preferred.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of manufacturing equipment electrical/electronic/controls experience.
• Ability to read electrical/mechanical drawings and suggest modifications.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting electrical/electronic control systems in manufacturing.
• Autodesk AutoCAD drafting for electrical schematics and panel layouts.
• Experience with Rockwell Automation PLCs and HMI (FactoryTalk View ME).
• Understanding of network protocols (ControlNet/DeviceNet/Ethernet) and SQL basics.

Responsibilities

• Support manufacturing facilities, including remote support of worldwide sites.
• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain electrical control systems for equipment.
• Assist with installation and MES integration events for new equipment.
• Maintain and update manufacturing process drawings; track changes.
• Implement software changes as directed by Controls Engineering.
• Collaborate across departments and communicate effectively.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Electrical knowledge

Reading schematics

Problem solving

Communication skills

Education

Associate/Bachelor in Electrical/Robotics/Industrial Controls

No Degree - 5+ years related experience

Tools

Rockwell PLC

AutoCAD

FactoryTalk View ME

Proface HMI

Ethernet/ControlNet/DeviceNet

SQL basics

Job description

First Solar is seeking an entry-level Automation Technician to support manufacturing operations, assist with equipment startup, PLC/HMI programming, and troubleshooting of control systems. The role shifts between AM and PM, with a rotating 36/48-hour schedule and some weekend work on a rotating basis.

The candidate should have 2+ years in manufacturing controls or an equivalent, with an associate or bachelor’s in Electrical/Robotics/Industrial Controls preferred.