Controls Technician

AAM - American Axle & Manufacturing; Columbus (IN); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive supplier is seeking a Controls Technician to support production by maintaining and repairing manufacturing equipment. This role will focus on electrical and controls systems, troubleshooting PLCs, HMIs, and other technologies. Ideal candidates should have a strong background in industrial electrical troubleshooting, mechanical and hydraulic knowledge, and the ability to work independently on the shop floor. Safety compliance and good communication skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Strong background in industrial electrical and controls troubleshooting.
• Experience with PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, sensors, and motor controls.
• Ability to read and understand electrical prints, ladder logic, and schematics.
• Good communication skills and a hands-on, problem-solving mindset.

Responsibilities

• Support production operations with maintenance and repair of systems.
• Troubleshoot and maintain PLC-controlled equipment and networks.
• Diagnose machine faults and return equipment to service quickly.
• Perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance.
• Complete maintenance logs and documentation.

Skills

Industrial electrical troubleshooting

PLC experience

HMI experience

VFD knowledge

Mechanical systems knowledge

Hydraulic systems knowledge

Problem-solving mindset

Job description

Job Description Summary

The Controls Technician supports production by maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing manufacturing equipment. This role focuses on electrical and controls systems while also supporting mechanical and hydraulic repairs as needed to keep production running safely and efficiently.

Job Posting Title

Controls Technician

Job Description

• Follow all safety rules, lockout/tagout procedures, and plant operating standards.
• Support production operations with maintenance and repair of electrical, controls, mechanical, and hydraulic systems.
• Troubleshoot and maintain PLC-controlled equipment, HMIs, VFDs, sensors, and industrial networks.
• Diagnose machine faults using structured troubleshooting methods and return equipment to service quickly and safely.
• Read and work from electrical schematics, ladder logic, mechanical drawings, and equipment documentation.
• Assist with controls modifications, machine improvements, and reliability projects.
• Research and identify replacement parts, components, and controls hardware as needed.
• Perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance per work orders and maintenance schedules.
• Complete maintenance logs, checklists, and basic documentation to communicate work performed and equipment status.

Required Skills And Education

• Strong background in industrial electrical and controls troubleshooting
• Experience with PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, sensors, and motor controls
• Ability to read and understand electrical prints, ladder logic, and schematics
• Working knowledge of mechanical and hydraulic systems
• Experience supporting manufacturing equipment in a production environment
• Ability to work independently on the shop floor and prioritize production needs
• Good communication skills and a hands‑on, problem‑solving mindset

Preferred Experience

• Manufacturing or industrial maintenance experience
• CNC machine and robotic automation exposure
• Forging and Induction Heating experience highly beneficial

About AAM

As a leading global Tier 1 Automotive and Mobility Supplier, AAM designs, engineers and manufactures Driveline and Metal Forming technologies to support electric, hybrid and internal combustion vehicles. Discover how we’re Bringing the Future Faster at AAM.com.

AAM will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race, color, gender, religion, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or other characteristic protected by law. AAM will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and that Associates are treated equally during employment, without regard to their age, race, color, gender, religion, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or other characteristic protected by law. For the Disabled Job Seeker: We offer reasonable accommodations for qualified disabled individuals who are applicants for employment. To request assistance or accommodations, please e-mail [e-mail]. AAM is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.