Lead Automation Technician

JMJ PHILLIP; Town of Texas, Temple (WI, TX); On-site; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in packaging innovation seeks a Lead Automation Technician to oversee a team and maintain industrial automation systems. This role involves hands-on technical support, preventive maintenance, and optimizing equipment performance in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary range of $43–$49/hr

Leadership role with technical and managerial responsibilities

Opportunity for professional growth

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of experience as a plant mechanic or lead technician preferred.
• Proficient in using computers and CMMS systems.
• Electrical troubleshooting experience up to 480 Volts preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage local hub-based Automation Technicians and oversee training.
• Perform maintenance and repairs on packaging equipment and troubleshoot failures.
• Support new equipment deployments and manage format changeovers.

Skills

Mechanical Aptitude

Communication

Leadership

Tools

CMMS

PLC

Robots

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Lead Automation Technician to provide hands-on technical support and team leadership in a fast-paced, innovation-driven packaging environment. This role plays a critical part in maintaining and optimizing industrial automation systems, while also overseeing a team of local automation technicians. With a strong focus on preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and new equipment deployment, the Lead Automation Technician ensures that all systems are running efficiently to support advanced mobile and fixed-site packaging operations.

Position Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Supervision

• Directly manage local hub-based Automation Technicians, including day-to-day task oversight and performance management.
• Oversee technician training and skill development to ensure technical growth and consistent execution.
• Collaborate with plant management to coordinate technician schedules for optimal operational coverage.

Preventive Maintenance & CMMS Management

• Work with the maintenance manager to ensure all preventive maintenance tasks are established in the CMMS and correctly assigned.
• Monitor task completion and assist technicians in meeting scheduled maintenance targets.
• Record and track all maintenance activity in the system for compliance and analysis.

Equipment Support & Troubleshooting

• Perform maintenance and repairs on packaging equipment, robots, air compressors, tray formers, and other electromechanical systems.
• Troubleshoot and identify root causes of equipment failures and collaborate with technical teams on sustainable solutions.
• Implement upgrades and modifications to enhance performance and reliability.

System Optimization & New Deployments

• Support new equipment deployments, including Sojo Flight mobile packaging systems.
• Manage format changeovers using pre-programmed recipes and adjust system configurations as needed.
• Partner with Engineering and Operations teams to drive continuous improvement and system optimization.

Workplace Safety & Equipment Care

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment at all times.
• Adhere to safety protocols and ensure team compliance with factory equipment safety practices.

Prerequisites

• Valid Driver's License
• 5–7 years of experience as a plant mechanic, lead technician, or field service technician (preferred)
• Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on experience with hand tools
• Proficient in using computers and CMMS systems
• Electrical troubleshooting experience up to 480 Volts (preferred)
• Experience with PLCs and industrial robots
• Self-starter with strong communication and leadership skills
• Willingness to travel up to 30% of the time

Certifications (Preferred, but Not Required)

• Forklift Certification
• Electrical or automation-related technical certifications

What the Role Offers

• Competitive salary range of $43–$49/hr
• A leadership role with both technical and managerial responsibilities
• Opportunity to work on patented mobile manufacturing systems and high-performance automation solutions
• Professional growth in a high-tech environment alongside seasoned industry leaders
• Be a part of shaping next-generation automation technology in a high-growth organization

Why Temple?

This role supports operations at one of the newest flagship facilities—designed from the ground up to integrate advanced automation, robotics, and modular manufacturing systems. Working here places you at the heart of innovation, surrounded by industry veterans and cutting-edge technology. The location serves as a central hub for mobile deployments, offering hands-on experience with a variety of packaging technologies and rapid career advancement opportunities.