Automation Technician | Methods Machine Tools

Methods Machine Tools, Inc.; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

Paid time off

Education assistance

401(k) plan

Job summary

Methods Machine Tools, Inc. seeks an Automation Technician to assemble, install, program, troubleshoot, and maintain automated manufacturing equipment and machine tool systems. You will work with engineering, production, service, and customers to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation.

The role covers PLC/HMI programming, robotics integration, electrical controls, sensors, and industrial networks. Travel to client sites for installation and support is required.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience working with industrial automation systems in a manufacturing environment.
• Associate degree or technical certification in Automation Technology or related field.
• Knowledge of Fanuc robotic systems.
• Experience with PLC platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi, or Omron.
• Knowledge of CNC machine tools and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to read and understand electrical and mechanical drawings.
• Experience troubleshooting electrical controls, sensors, motors, drives, and communication networks.
• Familiarity with industrial networking protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, DeviceNet).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel when required.
• Knowledge of reading and interpreting engineering drawings, schematics, and technical specifications.

Responsibilities

• Assemble, wire, and install automated machine tool equipment and control systems.
• Configure, troubleshoot, and maintain PLCs, HMIs, servo drives, VFDs, and industrial networks.
• Support integration of CNC machines with robotic cells, conveyors, and vision systems.
• Diagnose and repair electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and automation issues.
• Perform startup, commissioning, testing, and validation of new equipment.
• Read electrical schematics and wiring diagrams to guide installations.
• Assist with PLC/HMI programming modifications as required.
• Conduct preventive maintenance and pursue continuous improvement to maximize uptime.
• Calibrate sensors, actuators, vision systems, and process control instruments.
• Collaborate with engineering to implement automation upgrades and process improvements.
• Support FAT/SAT testing and document troubleshooting and repairs.
• Provide technical training and support to operators and maintenance teams.
• Follow all safety procedures and electrical standards.
• Travel to customer sites for installation and field service as needed.

Skills

Industrial automation

Fanuc robotics

PLC platforms

CNC knowledge

Electrical drawings

Troubleshooting

Industrial networking

MS Office

Travel readiness

Lean manufacturing

Education

Associate degree in Automation Technology

Technical certification in Automation Technology

Mechatronics background

Electrical Engineering Technology background

Tools

Fanuc robotics

Allen-Bradley PLC

Siemens PLC

Mitsubishi PLC

Omron PLC

CNC machine tools

Electrical schematics

Ethernet/IP

Profinet

Modbus

DeviceNet

MS Office

Lean manufacturing

Job description

Methods Machine Tools, Inc.supplies high-quality, high-precision machine tools and automation solutions, and designs integrated custom machining processes and systems. Headquartered in Sudbury, Mass., and in operation since 1958, Methods provides an end-to-end portfolio of best-in-class products, engineering, service, parts, training, and integration. Methods has more than 300 employees, seven technology centers, one high precision machining center, and has installed in excess of 45,000 machines throughout North America.

The Automation Technician is responsible for the assembly, installation, programming, troubleshooting, maintenance, and support of automated manufacturing equipment and machine tool systems. This role works closely with engineering, production, service, and customers to ensure automation systems operate safely, efficiently, and reliably. The Automation Technician supports PLC-controlled equipment, robotic systems, CNC machine integration, electrical controls, sensors, and industrial communication networks.

Key Responsibilities

• Assemble, wire, and install automated machine tool equipment and control systems.
• Configure, troubleshoot, and maintain PLCs, HMIs, servo drives, VFDs, and industrial networks.
• Support integration of CNC machines with robotic cells, conveyors, vision systems, and peripheral equipment.
• Diagnose and repair electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and automation-related issues.
• Perform startup, commissioning, testing, and validation of new equipment.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, ladder logic, wiring diagrams, pneumatic drawings, and technical documentation.
• Assist with PLC and HMI programming modifications as required.
• Conduct preventive maintenance and continuous improvement activities to maximize equipment uptime.
• Calibrate sensors, actuators, vision systems, and process control instruments.
• Work with engineering teams to implement automation upgrades and process improvements.
• Support factory acceptance testing (FAT) and site acceptance testing (SAT).
• Document troubleshooting activities, repairs, and system modifications.
• Provide technical training and support to operators, maintenance personnel, and customers.
• Follow all company safety procedures, OSHA requirements, and applicable electrical standards.
• Travel to customer sites as needed for installation, service, startup, and support.

bENEFITS

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Paid time off, Education Assistance, 401(k) Plan, and great opportunity to advance.

qualifications

• Associate degree or technical certification in Automation Technology, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering Technology, Industrial Maintenance, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience working with industrial automation systems in a manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of Fanuc robotic systems
• Experience with PLC platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi, or Omron.
• Knowledge of CNC machine tools and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to read and understand electrical and mechanical drawings.
• Experience troubleshooting electrical controls, sensors, motors, drives, and communication networks.
• Familiarity with industrial networking protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, or DeviceNet.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel when required.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting engineering drawings, schematics, and technical specifications.
• Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude and manual dexterity with the ability to use hand tools, power tools, and measuring instruments effectively.
• Attention to detail and ability to work with tight tolerances to ensure precision and accuracy in assembly.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Commitment to safety and adherence to safety protocols and procedures.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement methodologies is a plus.
• Knowledge of machine vision systems and industrial cameras is nice to have.
• Experience with servo motion control systems is nice to have.

Additional Information

This job description is designed to provide an overview of basic skills, experiences and education required to perform the job and is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee to perform the essential functions of the job. In instances where educational degrees are required, the company will take into consideration factors such as additional experience, training, or certifications in lieu of specific educational requirements.

Methods Machine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Start your journey to a new and exciting career at Methods.