Production Automation Technician

Sage V Foods; Little Rock (AR); On-site; USD 30,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

Sage V Foods in Little Rock, AR, is seeking a Production Automation Technician to install, troubleshoot, maintain, and optimize automated systems used in processing and packaging. The role collaborates with operations and maintenance teams to maximize uptime, productivity, and product quality.

The ideal candidate has a high school diploma or GED, with technical training or an associate degree preferred, and 2+ years of hands-on experience with automation in a food manufacturing setting,

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Prefer technical certificate or Associate degree.
• 2+ years of hands-on automation experience in food manufacturing, rice/grain preferred.
• Experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs, PanelView HMIs, and industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, Modbus).

Responsibilities

• Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair automated systems and control networks.
• Monitor daily production automation processes for continuous operation.
• Perform preventive and predictive maintenance on automation equipment.
• Collaborate with maintenance, engineering, and production teams to resolve issues.
• Support installation and commissioning of new automation equipment and upgrades.
• Keep accurate maintenance records and documentation.
• Follow OSHA and food-safety standards in all tasks.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and automation projects.

Skills

Programming and troubleshooting

PLC programming

Industrial automation

Teamwork

Independent worker

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical certificate/Associate degree

Tools

Allen-Bradley PLCs

PanelView HMIs

EtherNet/IP

Modbus

Electrical schematics

Job description

This job was posted by https://www.arjoblink.arkansas.gov : For more information, please see: https://www.arjoblink.arkansas.gov/jobs/4458035

Job Title

Production Automation Technician

Department

Maintenance

Last modified on

05/21/2025

Reports to

Josh Nix

Supervises

none

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

Prepared by

K. Thomas

Approved by

J. Nix

Job Summary

The Production Automation Technician is responsible for the installation, troubleshooting, maintenance and optimization of automated systems and equipment used in processing and packaging. This role ensures the smooth and efficient operation of automated production lines and collaborates with the operations and maintenance teams to maximize plant uptime, productivity and product quality.

Duties & Responsibilities (Major)

• Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair automated systems, sensors, and control networks.
• Monitor and support daily production automation processes to ensure continuous operation and efficiency.
• Conduct preventive and predictive maintenance on all automation-related equipment.
• Collaborate with maintenance, engineering, and production teams to resolve mechanical and control issues.
• Support the installation and commissioning of new automated equipment and system upgrades.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance work, system changes, and technical documentation.
• Follow safety procedures and ensure compliance with OSHA, food safety, and plant operational standards.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and assist in the implementation of automation projects.

Education & Experience (Minimum Required):

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Specializing technical training certificate or Associate degree (preferred).
• 2+ years of hands-on experience with automation and controls in a food manufacturing environment (rice or grain industry preferred).
• Experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs, PanelView HMIs, and industrial communication networks (EtherNet/IP, Modbus).

Minimum Expectations

• Excellent observant and fast learner of industrial automated machinery.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to think logically.
• Excellent attendance and reliability.
• Think out of the box, having an innovative mindset to simplify production processes.
• Willing to learn new technologies.
• Willing to participate in industrial training like PLC programming and robotic programming.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (Desired)

• Strong knowledge of programming and troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with PLC systems, industrial Ethernet, Device-net and Control-net networks.
• Understanding of electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and instrumentation.
• Ability to work with mechanical and pneumatic systems related to automated equipment.
• Proficient in the use of diagnostic tools and software for automation equipment.
• Knowledge of industrial safety systems (e.g., lockout/tagout, arc flash)
• Program, modify, and update logic and interfaces as (preferred)
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Physical Demands & Work Environment (Typical)

• Must be able to work in a food production environment, including hot, cold, dusty, and humid conditions.
• Ability to lift 50lbs., bend, climb ladders, and stand or walk for extended periods.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, as needed.
• Able to wear the required PPE.