Automation Technician II - Robotics/Mechatronics

Oshkosh Corporation, Inc.; Dodge Center (MN); On-site; USD 32,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing Inc. is seeking an Automation Technician II to advance advanced support, troubleshooting, programming, and optimization of automated manufacturing systems.

You will act as a technical expert for robotics, PLCs, motion control, and automated fabrication equipment, while mentoring junior technicians. The role focuses on commissioning, continuous improvement, safety leadership, and strong collaboration with engineering, maintenance, and operations to improve

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED and completion of a formal trades training program or equivalent.
• 3+ years of industrial maintenance and/or automation experience with advanced knowledge of electricity and motor controls, PLCs, robotics, and automation systems.
• Experience with reading electrical prints, schematics, and one-line diagrams; strong safety leadership.

Responsibilities

• Program, troubleshoot, and optimize ABB and/or Yaskawa robotic systems used in arc welding, material handling, and painting applications.
• Provide advanced support for automated fabrication and CNC equipment (plasma/laser cutting, press brakes, machining centers).
• Diagnose complex issues in robotic cells, CNC machines, and automation control systems; perform PLC programming.
• Configure and maintain servo drives, VFDs, motion control, and HMI systems; support equipment commissioning and startups.
• Guide and mentor Automation Technician I/II; promote safety and GMP compliance; respond to emergencies.

Skills

Robotics programming

PLC programming

Electrical controls

Automation systems

Troubleshooting

Electrical schematics

Education

High School Diploma or GED + trades training

Tools

ABB robotics

Yaskawa robotics

Rockwell Automation (Allen-Bradley)

HMI systems

Job description

About McNeilus, an Oshkosh Company McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing Inc. is committed to serving everyday heroes and is an industry leading designer and manufacturer of refuse truck bodies. McNeilus produces a complete line of high-performance rear load, front load, and automated side load refuse bodies to augment any refuse collection fleet. Our team members are critical in our mission of supporting waste warriors and keeping communities safe and clean.

JOB SUMMARY

The Automation Technician II is a senior-level technical role responsible for advanced support, troubleshooting, programming, and optimization of automated manufacturing systems. This position serves as a technical expert for robotics, PLCs, motion control, and automated fabrication equipment, while supporting equipment commissioning, continuous improvement initiatives, and mentoring lower-level technicians.

Pay Range: $23 - $37.44

YOUR IMPACT

• Program, troubleshoot, maintain, and optimize ABB and/or Yaskawa robotic systems used in: Arc welding
• Material handling
• Painting applications
• Provide advanced support for automated fabrication and CNC equipment, including:
  • Plasma and laser cutting systems
  • Press brakes
  • Machining centers
• Diagnose and resolve complex issues involving robotic cells, CNC machines, and automation control systems
• Perform advanced PLC troubleshooting and programming using Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation) platforms
• Troubleshoot, configure, and support: Servo drives Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) Motion control systems
• Configure, troubleshoot, and maintain HMI systems
• Read, interpret, and troubleshoot using electrical prints, schematics, and one-line diagrams
• Support equipment commissioning, startups, upgrades, and continuous improvement projects
• Conduct system analysis to identify root causes and recommend long-term corrective actions
• Partner with engineering, maintenance, and operations to improve equipment reliability and performance
• Provide technical guidance and mentoring to Automation Technician I and II team members
• Demonstrate strong safety leadership and ensure compliance with all safety procedures and good manufacturing practices
• Respond to unplanned and emergency work requests in a timely and effective manner
• Perform additional duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or GED and completion of a formal trades training program or equivalent combination of education and experience
• 3 or more years of industrial maintenance and/or automation experience, including advanced knowledge of: Electricity and motor controls Controls and instrumentation PLC software and hardware Robotics and automation systems Pneumatics and hydraulics Mechanical systems Preventative maintenance Maintenance planning System analysis and advanced troubleshooting Arc Flash ratings and precautions Lockout tag out procedures

STANDOUT QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate degree or certification in electrical, mechanical, automation, or industrial maintenance technology, and electronics
• Advanced experience with robotic programming and integration (ABB, Yaskawa preferred)
• Experience with AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicle) or AMRs (Autonomous Guided Robot)
• Experience with automation platforms including: Rockwell Automation Siemens GE Horner Opto22
• Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols: Ethernet/IP DeviceNet Modbus HART DH+/485 ASCII
• Proven ability to lead technical problem-solving efforts and support continuous improvement initiatives
• Strong communication skills and ability to work independently and within a team

Oshkosh is committed to working with and offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability for any part of the recruitment process, please contact our talent acquisition team by email [e-mail].

Oshkosh Corporation is a merit-based Equal Opportunity Employer. Job opportunities are open for application to all qualified individuals and selection decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristic. To the extent that information is provided or collected regarding categories as provided by law it will in no way affect the decision regarding an employment application.

Oshkosh Corporation will not discharge or in any manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with Oshkosh Corporation's legal duty to furnish information.

Certain positions with Oshkosh Corporation require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations or the Export Administration Regulations. Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. Persons," as defined in these regulations. Generally, a "U.S. Person" is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or an individual who has been admitted as a refugee or granted asylum.

Advance your career by advancing the world. For many of our team members, this is more than a career. It’s a calling. Oshkosh is home to thousands of difference-makers working together to build, serve and protect people and communities around the world. From the front lines to the firehouse, the people we serve are driven by a sense of purpose. The people who work here are no different. Our engineering and product innovation help keep soldiers and firefighters safe, is critical in building and keeping communities clean and helps people do their jobs every day. As part of a People First culture, you’ll be encouraged and empowered to take ownership of your work, develop your career and make a real impact on the world around you. Oshkosh is a global company that designs and manufactures some of the world’s toughest specialty and access equipment under the brands of JLG®, Hinowa, Power Towers, Pierce®, MAXIMETAL™, Oshkosh® Defense, McNeilus®, IMT®, Jerr-Dan®, Frontline™ Communications, Oshkosh® Airport Products, Oshkosh® AeroTech™ and Pratt Miller.