Automations Controls Technician I (3rd Shift)

SunOpta; Alexandria (MN); On-site; USD 40,914 - 58,272; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Paid Holidays

401(k) with Match

Tuition assistance

Job summary

A leading supply chain solutions provider is seeking an entry-level Automation Controls Technician I to support installation and maintenance of control systems at their Alexandria, MN plant. Candidates should have a high school diploma or GED, basic PLC understanding, and a willingness to learn. This position offers a pay rate of $36.00 per hour and benefits including medical, dental, and tuition assistance. The role involves working 3rd shift and requires physical stamina for an industrial environment.

Qualifications

• 0-2 years of experience in industrial maintenance, automation, or controls.
• Ability to read basic electrical diagrams and technical documentation.
• Willingness to learn and take direction.

Responsibilities

• Assist with installation and maintenance of PLC-based control systems.
• Troubleshoot basic electrical and mechanical issues.
• Support preventive and corrective maintenance on automated equipment.

Skills

Basic understanding of PLCs

Electrical systems knowledge

Familiarity with hand tools

Good communication skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate degree in Automation or related field

Tools

Electrical test equipment

Job description

Overview

SunOpta delivers customized supply chain solutions and innovation for top brands, retailers, and foodservice providers across a broad portfolio of beverages, broths, and better-for-you snacks. With over 50 years of expertise, SunOpta fuels customers' growth with high-quality, sustainability-forward solutions distributed through retail, club, foodservice, and e-commerce channels across North America.

Job Summary

The Automation Controls Technician I supports the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of automated control systems and industrial equipment. This entry-level role works under close supervision to ensure manufacturing and facility automation systems operate safely, efficiently, and reliably.

Essential Functions

• Assist with installation, startup, and maintenance of PLC-based control systems
• Troubleshoot basic electrical, mechanical, and control system issues
• Support preventive and corrective maintenance on automated equipment
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals
• Perform basic PLC monitoring, I/O checks, and parameter adjustments
• Assist with sensor, actuator, VFD, HMI, and motor troubleshooting
• Document maintenance activities, repairs, and system changes
• Follow safety procedures, lockout/tagout (LOTO), and company standards
• Work collaboratively with maintenance, engineering, and operations teams
• Escalate complex issues to senior technicians or engineers as needed
• Accountable to the SunOpta Manufacturing Food Safety and Quality Principles
• All other duties, as assigned

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Associate degree or technical certificate in Automation, Electronics, Mechatronics, or related field preferred
• 0-2 years of experience in industrial maintenance, automation, or controls (internship or apprenticeship acceptable)
• Basic understanding of PLCs, industrial controls, and electrical systems
• Familiarity with hand tools, electrical test equipment, and basic troubleshooting techniques
• Ability to read basic electrical diagrams and technical documentation

Preferred Qualifications

• Exposure to PLC platforms (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.)
• Basic knowledge of HMIs, VFDs, and industrial networks
• Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude
• Willingness to learn and take direction
• Good communication and teamwork skills

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid Family leave
• Paid maternity leave
• 401(k) with Match
• Voluntary Life, Accident, Critical Illness and Hospital indemnity
• Paid Holidays
• Tuition assistance
• Short-term and Long-term Disability insurance

Additional Considerations

• Location: This role is at our 3rd Avenue SunOpta Plant in Alexandria, MN.
• Shift: 3rd Shift, Sunday - Thursday, 11 pm - 7:30 am.
• Pay Rate: $36.00 / hour.
• Shift Differential: $1.25 / hour shift differential offered for working 3rd Shift.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work in industrial environments (noise, heat, moving equipment).
• May require shift work, overtime, or on-call support.

Note: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
EOE M/W/VET/DISABLED