Programming / PLC Technician

Foresight Energy LP; Illinois; On-site; USD 31,175 - 39,371; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage

401(k) plan

Paid holidays and vacation time

Job summary

A leading energy company is looking for a Programming / PLC Technician to handle the configuration and maintenance of PLCs in mining operations. The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years of experience in industrial automation and be proficient with Allen-Bradley systems. This role offers an hourly pay range of $22.63–$28.58 depending on experience, along with bonus potential and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in industrial automation or mining controls preferred.
• Proficiency with Allen-Bradley PLCs; experience with ABB or Toshiba systems a plus.
• MSHA certification preferred or willingness to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Develop, modify, and maintain PLC programs for mining equipment.
• Troubleshoot automation faults using ladder logic and structured text programming.
• Perform diagnostics and network maintenance on communication systems.
• Provide technical training and field support on control systems.

Skills

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC)

Troubleshooting

Automation systems

Electrical schematics

Communication networks

Education

Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering Technology

Tools

Allen-Bradley ControlLogix/CompactLogix platforms

Job description

The Programming / PLC Technician is responsible for the configuration, troubleshooting, and maintenance of programmable logic controllers, automation systems, and communication networks across all underground and surface mining operations. This role ensures reliable operation of electrically controlled systems critical to production, safety, and environmental compliance.

Responsibilities

• Develop, modify, and maintain PLC programs for mining equipment, conveyors, ventilation, dewatering, and power distribution systems.
• Troubleshoot automation faults using ladder logic, function block, and structured text programming.
• Integrate and calibrate field devices including sensors, VFDs, relays, encoders, and communication interfaces.
• Perform diagnostics and network maintenance on Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, and fiber optic communication systems.
• Support real‑time data acquisition, historian, and SCADA interfaces.
• Coordinate with electrical and mechanical maintenance teams to ensure minimal downtime and rapid fault resolution.
• Maintain and document PLC backups, I/O maps, network diagrams, and revision control for all systems.
• Assist in commissioning new equipment, verifying interlocks, control logic, and safety circuits.
• Provide technical training and field support to electricians and maintenance personnel on control systems.
• Work closely with engineering and operations to improve process efficiency and equipment reliability through automation upgrades.

Typical Education & Experience

• 2+ years of experience in industrial automation or mining controls preferred.
• Proficiency with Allen‑Bradley ControlLogix/CompactLogix platforms; experience with ABB or Toshiba systems a plus.
• Strong understanding of electrical schematics, control wiring, and instrumentation.
• MSHA certification preferred or willingness to obtain.
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Industrial Automation, or related field preferred.

Compensation at an attractive hourly rate of $22.63-$28.58, depending on experience and process of obtaining electrical certification.

In addition, there's potential to earn various bonuses based on safety, production metrics, and attendance.

At Foresight Energy, we pride ourselves on being an equal opportunity employer. We offer an outstanding wage and benefits package, which includes medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage; life insurance; 401(k) plan; paid holidays; vacation time; and so much more.