Entry-Level Automation Technician: Controls & PLC/HMI

First Solar, Inc.; Perrysburg (OH); On-site; USD 38,572 - 52,348; Full time

Job summary

First Solar is seeking an entry-level Automation Technician to support manufacturing operations, assist with equipment startup, PLC/HMI programming, and troubleshooting of electrical/control systems on a solar manufacturing site. The role involves working a rotating 36/48-hour schedule on AM or PM shifts.

Candidates typically have 2 years of manufacturing electrical/electronics experience or 5+ years without a degree, plus skills in AutoCAD, Rockwell PLCs, HMI platforms, and data interpretation.

Qualifications

• Experience in electrical/electronic/controls in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read electrical and mechanical drawings and suggest modifications.
• Experience with PLC/SCADA/HMI programming and troubleshooting in a manufacturing setting.

Responsibilities

• Support manufacturing facilities, including remote support of worldwide sites.
• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain electrical control systems for equipment.
• Assist with new equipment installation and MES integration.
• Maintain and update electrical drawings and document equipment changes.
• Implement software changes and upgrades per Controls Engineering.
• Identify and present solutions for control problems and improvements.
• Interface with multiple departments and maintain effective communications.
• Ensure safety procedures and good housekeeping.

Skills

Independent work

Data interpretation

Reading electrical drawings

Troubleshooting

Communication skills

Safety compliance

Education

Associate/Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Robotics/Industrial Controls/Electronic Engineering

5+ years verifiable experience (no degree)

Tools

AutoCAD

Rockwell PLCs

FactoryTalk View ME

Pro-face HMIs

Ethernet/ControlNet/Devicenet/Profibus

Job description

First Solar is seeking an entry-level Automation Technician to support manufacturing operations, assist with equipment startup, PLC/HMI programming, and troubleshooting of electrical/control systems on a solar manufacturing site. The role involves working a rotating 36/48-hour schedule on AM or PM shifts.

Candidates typically have 2 years of manufacturing electrical/electronics experience or 5+ years without a degree, plus skills in AutoCAD, Rockwell PLCs, HMI platforms, and data interpretation.