Automation Technician I – PLC/Mechatronics

RWC Inc.; Bay City (MI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

RWC Inc. in Bay City, MI is seeking an Automation Technician to troubleshoot and resolve automation issues, perform preventive maintenance, and ensure systems run to specification.

You will program Rockwell PLCs, participate in machine setup and testing, travel to customer sites, and document service activities with clear reports for Engineering.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience troubleshooting and programming PLC-controlled automation systems.
• Experience with Rockwell PLC platform required.
• Ability to interpret mechanical, electrical, and fluid power drawings and schematics.
• Proficiency with basic computer skills; able to learn applicable software.
• Willingness and ability to travel to customer job sites.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and resolve automation issues across electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and fluid circuitry.
• Program and troubleshoot Rockwell PLC systems.
• Participate in machine setup, testing, and debugging per project specs.
• Conduct startup service, repairs, and training at customer sites.
• Document service activities and write clear service reports.
• Collaborate with engineers and other technicians during development.
• Inspect machines for safety, integrity, efficiency, and safety compliance.
• Travel to customer sites as required.
• Assist in training less-experienced team members.

Skills

PLC programming

Troubleshooting

Electrical knowledge

Communication

Independence

Tools

Rockwell PLC

Electrical tools

Job description

Job Summary

This is a full-time role located in Bay City, MI, for an Automation Technician. The Automation Technician will be responsible for troubleshooting and resolving automation issues, performing preventive maintenance tasks, and ensuring automation systems operate according to specifications. Travel to customer sites is required.

Essential Functions

• Troubleshoot and resolve automation issues, including electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and fluid circuitry
• Program and troubleshoot Rockwell PLC systems
• Participate in machine setup, testing, and debugging according to project specifications and test plans
• Conduct startup service, repairs, and training at customer sites
• Document service activities, write clear and timely service reports, and communicate field changes to Engineering
• Collaborate with engineers and other technicians during system development and implementation
• Inspect machines for structural integrity, operational efficiency, and compliance with safety standards
• Assist in training and development of less-experienced team members
• Travel independently to customer job sites as required

Essential Qualifications

• Hands-on experience troubleshooting and programming PLC-controlled automation systems
• Experience with Rockwell PLC platform required
• Basic knowledge of automation with electromechanical devices
• Ability to interpret mechanical, electrical, and fluid power drawings and schematics
• Fundamental understanding of electrical and fluid power principles
• Basic welding knowledge and ability to apply as needed
• Familiarity with electrical tools
• Effective organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills to work with colleagues, customers, and vendors
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and in a team environment
• Willingness and ability to travel to customer job sites
• Ability to pass the Technician I test
• Proficiency with basic computer skills; ability to learn and adapt to applicable software