Operations Automation Specialist

Westrock Coffee Company; Concord (NC); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food manufacturing company seeks an Operations Automation Specialist to serve as the technical expert in advanced maintenance systems. The role involves troubleshooting, leading maintenance initiatives, and ensuring equipment efficiency and safety. Candidates should have at least 7 years of industrial maintenance experience, preferably in the food industry, along with advanced knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems. Strong problem-solving skills are essential, as well as proficiency with CMMS systems. This position provides an opportunity to contribute to plant reliability and efficiency improvements.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of industrial maintenance experience in a food industry.
• Advanced knowledge of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and wiring diagrams.
• Skilled in troubleshooting PLCs and automated systems.
• Strong analytical skills for diagnosing root causes.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the technical expert for assigned systems.
• Lead complex troubleshooting and repair efforts.
• Support engineering teams in maintenance programs.
• Perform advanced testing and calibration on equipment.
• Develop and update standard work procedures.

Skills

Industrial maintenance experience

Troubleshooting PLCs

Mechanical systems knowledge

Electrical systems knowledge

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Education

Associate degree in Industrial Maintenance or related field

Tools

CMMS systems

Diagnostic and measurement tools

Job description

Job Description

The Operations Automation Specialist serves as a subject matter expert in advanced maintenance systems and technologies, responsible for ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and safety of production and facility equipment. This position provides high-level technical expertise in areas such as automation, controls, electrical distribution, hydraulics, pneumatics, or mechanical systems. The Maintenance Specialist supports complex troubleshooting, leads improvement initiatives, and contributes to the design and execution of maintenance strategies that enhance plant efficiency and equipment life cycle.

Requisition Number: 6471

Shift: Second

Job Duties

• Serve as the technical expert for assigned systems (e.g., electrical, automation, hydraulic, pneumatic, or mechanical).
• Lead complex troubleshooting, diagnostics, and repair efforts on production and support equipment.
• Support engineering and reliability teams in developing predictive and preventive maintenance programs.
• Perform advanced testing, calibration, and analysis on equipment using diagnostic and measurement tools.
• Provide technical input for equipment design, specification, and capital project planning.
• Collaborate with vendors and OEMs to resolve complex issues and implement best-in-class maintenance practices.
• Develop and update standard work procedures, PM checklists, and training documentation.
• Lead and support continuous improvement projects to improve reliability, safety, and efficiency.
• Mentor and train maintenance personnel on advanced systems and troubleshooting techniques.
• Utilize CMMS to track performance data, analyze failure trends, and recommend improvements.
• Maintain compliance with OSHA, NFPA, NEC, and plant safety standards in all work performed.
• Support maintenance planning and scheduling efforts by providing technical expertise.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support maintenance and plant objectives.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of industrial maintenance experience in a food industry with demonstrated expertise in a specialized technical area.
• Advanced knowledge of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals.
• Skilled in troubleshooting PLCs, sensors, motor controls, and automated systems.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills for diagnosing root causes and implementing effective solutions.
• Proficiency with CMMS systems and maintenance documentation.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across departments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree or technical certification in Industrial Maintenance, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• Formal training or certification in PLC programming, automation, robotics, or controls integration.
• Experience leading maintenance improvement or reliability‑centered maintenance (RCM) programs.
• Knowledge of condition‑based monitoring techniques such as vibration analysis or thermography.
• Experience in foundry, molding, or heavy manufacturing environments.