Controls & Automation Technician

Sabrosura Foods, LLC; Wisconsin; On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the food industry seeks a Controls & Automation Technician to support and maintain automated systems. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. Responsibilities include optimizing plant performance, training personnel, and maintaining documentation. Join a dynamic team dedicated to continuous improvement in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Expert in RS Logix 5000 and 500, troubleshooting ControlLogix, CompactLogix.
• Experience with SCADA platforms, electrical systems, and drive systems.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain PLCs and control systems.
• Program and modify logic on PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and SCADA systems.
• Perform preventive maintenance on automation and instrumentation systems.

Skills

PLC Programming

Electrical Proficiency

Analytical Thinking

Documentation & Communication

Education

2+ years of industrial maintenance experience

Tools

AutoCAD

SCADA Systems

Job description

Career Opportunities with Sabrosura Foods

A great place to work.

Current job opportunities are posted here as they become available.

The Controls & Automation Technician plays a critical role in supporting and maintaining automated systems and PLC-controlled equipment throughout the plant. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in PLC programming, troubleshooting, and optimizing controls systems in a manufacturing setting—preferably within the food or dairy industry. All work must be performed in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Safe Quality Food (SQF) standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain PLCs (Allen-Bradley preferred) and associated control systems.
• Program and modify logic on PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and SCADA systems to optimize plant performance.
• Support day-to-day operations by responding quickly to automation-related issues on production lines.
• Collaborate with maintenance, production, and operations to implement control upgrades and process improvements.
• Maintain accurate documentation of all control system changes and modifications.
• Ensure compliance with safety and food quality standards.
• Perform preventive maintenance on automation and instrumentation systems.
• Train maintenance personnel and operators on system operation and troubleshooting techniques
• Follow all health and safety policies/procedures and GMPs and wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Comply with food quality and safety standards, including SQF requirements.

Troubleshooting & Maintenance

• Lead or assist in equipment failure investigations, working closely with production teams to identify root causes.
• Perform preventive maintenance and repairs on mechanical, electrical, and electronic systems (PLC hardware, VFDs, HMIs).
• Diagnose and troubleshoot PLC and automation issues, including faulty components, wiring, or programming logic.
• Calibrate and test equipment to ensure performance accuracy and compliance with specifications.
• Installed, tested, and started up new food manufacturing, packaging, and processing equipment, ensuring alignment with production requirements.
• Modify existing programs for system optimization, new process implementations, and enhanced safety protocols.
• Interface with machine tools, special equipment, or test modules; perform modifications to improve or update systems.
• Maintain accurate records of all maintenance activities, repairs, programming changes, and upgrades.

PLC Programming & Optimization

• Use RS Logix 5000, RS Logix 500, and RS Logix 5 for machine troubleshooting, going online with ControlLogix, CompactLogix, and SLC500.
• Upload, download, and edit PLC programs as required, ensuring minimal disruption to production.
• Understand and implement advanced programming concepts (AOIs, UDTs, arrays) and manage various tag types/references.
• Perform system upgrades to optimize production efficiency, safety, and reliability.

HMI & Automation Control

• Configure and replace PanelView or PanelView Plus HMIs, downloading applications using Panel Builder 32 or RS View Studio Machine Edition.
• Develop and modify HMI screens, animations, and scripts to align with current processes and operator needs.
• Ensure accurate data exchange between the HMI and the PLC, troubleshooting communication or tag reference issues as they arise.
• Participate in a continuous improvement culture; identify and suggest process enhancements to boost system reliability and reduce costs.
• Train team members on basic PLC functions and troubleshooting, fostering a collaborative knowledge-sharing environment.
• Build positive, respectful relationships with managers, supervisors, maintenance technicians, and machine operators, ensuring open communication.

Required Skills:

• PLC Programming: Expert in RS Logix 5000 and 500, with experience troubleshooting and editing code on ControlLogix, CompactLogix, and SLC500 platforms.
• SCADA Systems: Experience with or exposure to SCADA platforms (Wonderware preferred) for system monitoring and interface.
• Electrical Proficiency: Skilled in working with up to 480VAC, reading schematics, and using electrical test equipment.
• Drive Systems: Capable of configuring and replacing AB PowerFlex (40, 400, 525), Siemens, and Mitsubishi VFDs.
• HMI Development: Experience developing and modifying PanelView or PanelView Plus HMI applications.
• AutoCAD: Basic to intermediate ability to read and modify drawings, create component blocks, and work with layers.
• Documentation & Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, including Microsoft Office proficiency for SOPs, OPLs, and work instructions.
• Analytical Thinking: Capable of dissecting complex automation logic and troubleshooting root causes effectively.

Education & Experience:

• Minimum 2+ years of industrial maintenance experience, preferably in a food manufacturing environment.
• Proven expertise in Rockwell/Allen-Bradley PLCs, drive systems, and electrical/electronic troubleshooting.

Certifications:

• Rockwell Logix Programmer certification (or equivalent) preferred.
• Fast-paced food manufacturing setting with moving equipment, elevated noise levels (hearing protection required), and variable temperatures (hot, cold, wet conditions).
• Regular exposure to dust, vibration, and confined spaces.
• Frequent interaction with cleaning chemicals and sanitation protocols.

Physical Demands:

• Work is performed in a fast-paced, clean manufacturing environment that may be hot, wet, loud, and involve regular exposure to chemicals used in sanitation and production processes.
• Requires frequent standing, walking, bending, squatting, twisting, and pushing.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds repetitively.
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination are needed for equipment operation, control systems, and precision work.
• Visual requirements include visual acuity (seeing fine details) and accurate color perception for interpreting schematics, identifying wires, and monitoring safety indicators.
• Must be able to meet deadlines under production demands with a strong emphasis on accuracy and safety.
• Schedule may include weekdays, weekends, second/third shifts, holidays, and overtime as needed.