Day Shift Automation Controls Technician I

SunOpta, Inc.; Allentown (Lehigh County); On-site; USD 52,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

Paid Family leave

Paid maternity leave

401(k) with Match

Short-term Disability

Long-term Disability

Paid Holidays

Tuition assistance

Job summary

SunOpta, Inc. Allentown plant is hiring an Automation Controls Technician I (Days).

The role supports installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of PLC-based control systems and automated equipment to ensure safe, efficient operations. This entry-level position operates under close supervision and collaborates with maintenance, engineering, and operations to uphold plant safety and reliability standards.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associate degree or technical certificate in Automation, Electronics, Mechatronics, or related field preferred.
• 0–2 years of experience in industrial maintenance, automation, or controls (internship or apprenticeship acceptable).
• Basic understanding of PLCs, industrial controls, and electrical systems.
• Familiarity with hand tools, electrical test equipment, and basic troubleshooting techniques.
• Ability to read basic electrical diagrams and technical documentation.

Responsibilities

• Assist with installation, startup, and maintenance of PLC-based control systems.
• Troubleshoot basic electrical, mechanical, and control system issues.
• Support preventive and corrective maintenance on automated equipment.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals.
• Perform basic PLC monitoring, I/O checks, and parameter adjustments.
• Assist with sensor, actuator, VFD, HMI, and motor troubleshooting.
• Document maintenance activities, repairs, and system changes.
• Follow safety procedures, lockout/tagout (LOTO), and company standards.
• Work collaboratively with maintenance, engineering, and operations teams.
• Escalate complex issues to senior technicians or engineers as needed.

Skills

PLCs

Electrical troubleshooting

Industrial maintenance

Reading schematics

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate degree or technical certificate in Automation/Electronics/Mechatronics

Tools

Allen-Bradley PLCs

Siemens PLCs

HMIs

VFDs

Electrical test equipment

Job description

SunOpta, Inc. Allentown plant is hiring an Automation Controls Technician I (Days).

The role supports installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of PLC-based control systems and automated equipment to ensure safe, efficient operations. This entry-level position operates under close supervision and collaborates with maintenance, engineering, and operations to uphold plant safety and reliability standards.