Entry-Level Automation Technician: PLC & Controls

First Solar Inc.; Kentucky; On-site; USD 37,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

First Solar Inc. is seeking an entry-level Automation Technician to support manufacturing operations at our Kentucky site.

The role involves assisting with equipment startup, PLC/HMI programming, and troubleshooting of control systems, with an assigned AM or PM rotating shift. You will read electrical drawings, work with Rockwell PLCs, AutoCAD, and FactoryTalk ME, and contribute to continuous improvement projects.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of manufacturing equipment electrical/electronic/controls experience.
• Associate or higher degree preferred in electrical/robotics/industrial controls.
• Without a degree, 5+ years related experience required.

Responsibilities

• Support manufacturing facilities including remote support.
• Troubleshoot and maintain electrical control systems.
• Assist with new equipment installation and MES integration.
• Update electrical drawings and track equipment changes.
• Implement software changes per Controls Engineering.
• Identify and present solutions for control problems.

Skills

Independent work

Troubleshooting

Reading drawings

Microsoft Office

Communication

Education

Associate/Bachelors in Electrical/Robotics/Industrial Controls

No Degree - 5+ years related experience

Tools

AutoCAD

Rockwell PLC

FactoryTalk View ME

Ethernet networks

Job description

First Solar Inc. is seeking an entry-level Automation Technician to support manufacturing operations at our Kentucky site.

The role involves assisting with equipment startup, PLC/HMI programming, and troubleshooting of control systems, with an assigned AM or PM rotating shift. You will read electrical drawings, work with Rockwell PLCs, AutoCAD, and FactoryTalk ME, and contribute to continuous improvement projects.