Controls and Automation Trainer

Belcan; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 51,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health care

Dental

Vision

Life insurance

401(k)

Education assistance

Paid time off

Holidays

Job summary

Belcan is seeking a Sr. Training Instructor (Controls & Automation) to design, develop, and deliver technical training for automated manufacturing systems.

The role emphasizes translating PLC logic, robotics, and industrial networking into engaging, hands-on learning experiences. The instructor will lead classroom and lab activities, build curriculum for Rockwell/Beckhoff PLCs and Ignition SCADA, and mentor facilitators in adult learning strategies.

Qualifications

• Education: BS or AAS Degree in a related field, Certificate in Automation/Mechatronics, registered DOL apprenticeship completion (SACA/NC3 certifications), or equivalent work experience.
• 5+ years of experience in Technical Trades (Electrical, Mechanical) with a focus on Industrial Automation and a proven track record in technical instruction or adult education.
• Deep technical foundation in programming PLCs (Rockwell and Beckhoff) and operating robotic controllers (Fanuc, Kuka, Kawasaki) to effectively teach technical concepts.
• Familiarity with Ignition SCADA, HMI platforms, and design software (EPLAN or AutoCAD Electrical) to support curriculum authoring.
• Functional understanding of industrial communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, IO-Link, Profinet) to explain network logic to trainees.
• Outstanding presentation and interpersonal skills, with a strong ability to break down complex automated sequences into clear, digestible lessons.

Responsibilities

• Instructional Delivery: Serve as the primary instructor for Technical Trades programs, teaching Mechatronics, and Industrial Automation.
• Curriculum Development: Design and maintain platform-specific coursework for PLC programming (Rockwell, Beckhoff) and SCADA/HMI platforms (Ignition).
• Robotics Coursework: Develop comprehensive training modules for Fanuc, Kuka, and Kawasaki robotics, covering path programming, controller setup, and lab-based exercise sequences.
• Hands-On Lab Design: Creatively source, design, and build training fixtures, such as simulated PLC racks and dedicated training cells, for interactive instruction.
• Sustainable Upskilling: Coach internal facilitators on effective adult learning strategies and Standardized Work Instructions (SWI), enabling them to own, deliver, and continuously adapt training within their operational teams.
• Safety & Standards Instruction: Deliver training on industrial electrical standards, OSHA compliance, and NFPA guidelines for safeguarding automated equipment.
• Educational Partnerships: Collaborate with external educational partners and community organizations on apprenticeship curriculum development and accreditation.
• Continuous Learning: Integrate emerging technologies-including vision systems, autonomous systems, and advanced robotics-into the core curriculum roadmap.

Skills

Instructional skills

Adult education

PLC programming

Robotics knowledge

Education

BS/AAS in related field

Automation/Mechatronics cert

DOL apprenticeship completion

Tools

Ignition SCADA

EPLAN

AutoCAD Electrical

Rockwell PLC

Beckhoff PLC

Fanuc robotics

Kuka robotics

Kawasaki robotics

Job description

Job Title: Sr. Training Instructor (Controls & Automation)

Pay rate: $37.13 - $49.11/hr.

Location: Normal, IL

Duration: 12 Months

Start Date: Right Away

We provide a competitive pay and benefits package. This position is offering a pay range of $37.13 - $49.11/hr. however, Belcan considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to education, experience, geographic location, and discipline. Benefits offered may include health care, dental, vision, life insurance; 401(k); education assistance; paid time off including PTO, holidays, and any other paid leave required by law.

Role Summary:

The Sr. Training Instructor for Controls and Automation leads the design, development, and facilitation of technical training programs for automated manufacturing systems. This role focuses on translating complex automation concepts-including PLC logic, robotics, and industrial networking-into engaging, hands‑on learning experiences. Rather than providing live production line support or troubleshooting, the primary focus of this position is driving technician capability through classroom instruction, simulation lab exercises, hands‑on instruction on the plant floor, and structured adult learning methodologies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Instructional Delivery: Serve as the primary instructor for Technical Trades programs, teaching Mechatronics, and Industrial Automation.
• Curriculum Development: Design and maintain platform-specific coursework for PLC programming (Rockwell, Beckhoff) and SCADA/HMI platforms (Ignition).
• Robotics Coursework: Develop comprehensive training modules for Fanuc, Kuka, and Kawasaki robotics, covering path programming, controller setup, and lab-based exercise sequences.
• Hands-On Lab Design: Creatively source, design, and build training fixtures, such as simulated PLC racks and dedicated training cells, for interactive instruction.
• Sustainable Upskilling: Coach internal facilitators on effective adult learning strategies and Standardized Work Instructions (SWI), enabling them to own, deliver, and continuously adapt training within their operational teams.
• Safety & Standards Instruction: Deliver training on industrial electrical standards, OSHA compliance, and NFPA guidelines for safeguarding automated equipment.
• Educational Partnerships: Collaborate with external educational partners and community organizations on apprenticeship curriculum development and accreditation.
• Continuous Learning: Integrate emerging technologies-including vision systems, autonomous systems, and advanced robotics-into the core curriculum roadmap.

Qualifications

• Education: BS or AAS Degree in a related field, Certificate in Automation/Mechatronics, registered DOL apprenticeship completion (SACA/NC3 certifications), or equivalent work experience.
• Instructional & Industry Experience: 5+ years of experience in Technical Trades (Electrical, Mechanical) with a focus on Industrial Automation and a proven track record in technical instruction or adult education.
• Technical Mastery: Deep technical foundation in programming PLCs (Rockwell and Beckhoff) and operating robotic controllers (Fanuc, Kuka, Kawasaki) to effectively teach technical concepts.
• Software & Systems Knowledge: Familiarity with Ignition SCADA, HMI platforms, and design software (ePLAN or AutoCAD Electrical) to support curriculum authoring.
• Networking Understanding: Functional understanding of industrial communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, IO-Link, Profinet) to explain network logic to trainees.
• Pedagogy & Facilitation: Outstanding presentation and interpersonal skills, with a strong ability to break down complex automated sequences into clear, digestible lessons.

Working hours:

It will likely be a combination of all three shifts - times are approximate and subject to change:

• First Shift 6:00 A.M.-2:30 A.M.
• Second Shift 2:00 P.M-10:30 P.M.li>
• Third Shift 10:00 P.M-6:30 A.M.

Belcan is a leading provider of qualified personnel to many of the world's most respected enterprises. We offer excellent opportunities for contract, temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct assignments. We are the employer of choice for thousands worldwide. For more information, please visit our website at Belcan.com