Controls Automation Technician

Torrey Holistics; Dakota (IL); On-site; USD 44,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Vision benefits

Dental benefits

401k plan

Job summary

Berner Food & Beverage is seeking an Automation Controls Technician to program, setup, repair, and troubleshoot PLCs on the production floor. You will work with maintenance, facilities, and operations teams to keep systems running and compliant with GMP requirements.

The role emphasizes cross-functional collaboration, including OJT for others, documenting changes, and ensuring safety and reliability across shifts.

Qualifications

• Technical degree or equivalent in a related field.
• Strong automation software and PLC experience.
• Food processing plant experience is a plus.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• High school diploma or higher required.

Responsibilities

• Program, setup, repair, and troubleshoot PLCs on production lines.
• Configure hardware/software and document changes.
• Maintain and backup control system libraries.
• Work with maintenance, facilities, and operations teams.
• Ensure GMP and safety standards compliance.

Skills

PLC programming

Allen Bradley controls

VFDs

Machine vision

HMI development

Electrical schematics

Remote I/O networking

Microsoft Office

Education

Technical degree

AAS or equivalent

High School Diploma

Tools

Allen Bradley PLCs

VFDs

Cognex

Keyence

HMI software

Ethernet/IP

Job description

Ready to power up your career? JoinBerner Food & Beverage, aworld-class operationandNorth American leader in food and beverage co-manufacturing. As anAutomation Controls Technician, you’ll be at the heart of keeping our cutting-edge production systems running at peak performance.At Berner, you’ll work with advanced automation, robotics, and next-generation control systems that set industry standards. We take pride in innovation, teamwork, and building a workplace where you can grow your technical skills and make a real impact.Enjoycompetitive pay,comprehensive benefits, and a supportive culture that values your expertise. If you’re ready to advance your career with a dynamic, high-performing team, Berner is the place to be!Berner Food & Beverage is the employer of CHOICE!Relocation AssistanceFlexible Rotating Schedule (work 14 days a month)The maintenance automation controls technician is responsible for the PLC programming, setup, repair, and troubleshooting related to machine operations on Berners’ production floor. The maintenance automation controls technician will have a thorough understanding of automation controls, including PLCs, VFDs, and logic-based control systems. The maintenance automation technician will work cross-functionally with other maintenance mechanical technicians, facilities technicians, and production personnel within Berner Food & Beverage.Skills and Abilities:· Proficiency with Microsoft Office products· Proficiency in PLC programming, Setup, and troubleshooting.· Proficient with Allen Bradley PLCs, VFDs, and machine vision (Cognex / Keyence)· Firm understanding of HMI screen development. Configure and program remote I/O devices such as Ethernet IP, Modbus, or similar.· Implement and validate automation changes to the existing control system hardware and software.· Ability to read process diagrams, mechanical drawings, and electrical schematics.· Ability to apply sound engineering solutions while considering the budget, schedule, and operational performance.· Ability to troubleshoot various automation systems and provide training to operations and other maintenance personnel on automated operations.· Sound understanding of control components and wiring up to 480 VoltsEssential Duties and Responsibilities:· Understand and align with policies, safety standards, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and Food Safety. Identify and report Food Safety issues to management.· Support, mentor, and lead efforts for control system repairs and validate proper function to obtain throughput.· Obtains and executes work orders and preventive maintenance tickets with little or no guidance.· Assist in maintaining a library for all device back-ups and updates.· Document changes made to software and hardware (electrical and Process and instrumentation prints).· Work in conjunction with the Network administrator to maintain the Facility Controls Network (hardware and software)· Review (with upper management) key plant metrics/KPIs and equipment data to identify potential areas for continuous improvement.· Work closely with production and maintenance supervisors to provide effective support to production throughout the shift.· Ensure equipment in the area is maintained, guarded, and operated in accordance with defined safety regulations and procedures.Training, Education & Experience· Technical degree in a related field, AAM graduation, or equivalent experience· Strong experience with automation software, controls, and PLCs· Strong overall electrical knowledge and experience with control systems.· Excellent communication skills and effective team-building skills are a must· Experience in a food processing plant is a plus· High School Diploma or equivalent required· Technical school, coursework, or degree, considered a plusWorking Conditions:• Indoors• Walking on wet and slippery floors• Standing/Walking for 12 Hours• 12-hour night shifts (2-2- 3 -every other weekend Schedule)Pay Range: $Pay Range: $32.00-40.00 (based on experience); For the PM shift, there is a $2.00 Shift Differential for this position.Benefits Offered: Medical, Vision, Dental, Flex Spending, Basic Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment; Short and Long Term Disability, EAP, and 401k.Berner Food & Beverage Hourly employees are eligible for health benefits on the 1st of the month after 60 days of employment.Berner Food & Beverage Hourly employees are eligible to participate in the 401K plan after 30 days of employment.Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. An employee may perform other related duties as needed to meet Berner Food & Beverage’s ongoing needs.Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. An employee may perform other related duties as needed to meet Berner Food & Beverage’s ongoing needs.You should be proficient in:PLC Troubleshooting SkillsElectrical SchematicsPLC Programming ExperienceHigh Voltage SystemsIndustrial Electrical ExperienceElectrical Schematic Reading