Controls Technician

Redwood Materials; Nevada (IA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Redwood Materials in Nevada, Iowa is seeking a full-time Controls Technician responsible for maintaining controls hardware and electrical systems across production. The role includes troubleshooting PLCs and other automation components, collaborating with engineering teams, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. Ideal candidates have at least 4 years of experience in industrial automation and strong problem-solving skills. Compensation will be based on experience, with a split work environment between office and production facilities.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4+ years of experience in industrial automation or instrumentation.
• Proficient in troubleshooting PLCs, HMIs, and VFDs.
• Skilled in reading electrical schematics and P&IDs.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and repair manufacturing equipment to minimize downtime.
• Modify and upgrade control panels as per engineering specifications.
• Document maintenance calibrations and repairs accurately.

Skills

Troubleshooting and repairing PLCs

Interpreting electrical schematics

Fabricating control panels

Understanding of motor controls

Analytical problem-solving

Job description

Controls Technician

The Controls Technician is responsible for implementing and maintaining controls hardware, instrumentation, and electrical equipment across production and facility systems. Key duties include troubleshooting and repairing PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, sensors, and other automation components to ensure reliable and efficient operation. The role involves supporting equipment commissioning, executing system upgrades, and collaborating with engineering and maintenance teams to enhance process performance. Accurate documentation of changes and adherence to safety and compliance standards are essential. A strong focus on proactive problem‑solving and continuous improvement is expected.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and repair electrical, mechanical, and automated manufacturing equipment to minimize downtime and maintain production efficiency
• Fabricate, modify, and upgrade electrical control panels in accordance with engineering specifications and safety standards
• Perform field wiring of instrumentation and motor controls, ensuring proper installation and system functionality
• Conduct and document maintenance calibrations, installations, fault diagnosis, and repairs of electronic, electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic systems
• Interpret and utilize P&ID diagrams, electrical schematics, and technical documentation to perform advanced troubleshooting and system analysis
• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to support equipment commissioning, process improvements, and system upgrades
• Maintain accurate records of work performed, including updates to control logic, wiring diagrams, and calibration data, while adhering to safety and compliance protocols.

Desired Qualifications

• Minimum of 4+ years of experience in industrial automation, controls, or instrumentation within a manufacturing or process environment
• Proficient in troubleshooting and repairing PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and industrial sensors
• Skilled in reading and interpreting electrical schematics, P&IDs, and technical documentation
• Hands‑on experience fabricating and wiring control panels to meet design and safety standards
• Strong understanding of motor controls, instrumentation wiring, and calibration procedures
• Familiarity with pneumatic and mechanical systems and their integration with control systems
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced, cross‑functional team environment
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with a proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues

Physical Requirements

• Ability to safely perform job duties in both office and industrial production environments, including areas with elevated noise, heat, and moving machinery
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs as needed for equipment handling and installations
• Must be able to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb ladders or stairs for extended periods during troubleshooting and maintenance tasks
• Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection
• Must be able to communicate clearly and effectively with team members, both verbally and in writing

Working Conditions

• Split work environment between office and production facility
• Work may involve extended periods in the production facility
• Ability to work in challenging conditions including exposure to noise, dust, chemicals, and temperature extremes, while protected by PPE, for extended durations
• May require occasional weekend work or alternate shifts to support production need

The position is full-time. Compensation will be commensurate with experience.