Senior Controls & Automation Trainer

Belcan; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 51,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health care

Dental

Vision

Life insurance

401(k)

Education assistance

Paid time off

Holidays

Job summary

Belcan is seeking a Sr. Training Instructor (Controls & Automation) to design, develop, and deliver technical training for automated manufacturing systems.

The role emphasizes translating PLC logic, robotics, and industrial networking into engaging, hands-on learning experiences. The instructor will lead classroom and lab activities, build curriculum for Rockwell/Beckhoff PLCs and Ignition SCADA, and mentor facilitators in adult learning strategies.

Qualifications

• Education: BS or AAS Degree in a related field, Certificate in Automation/Mechatronics, registered DOL apprenticeship completion (SACA/NC3 certifications), or equivalent work experience.
• 5+ years of experience in Technical Trades (Electrical, Mechanical) with a focus on Industrial Automation and a proven track record in technical instruction or adult education.
• Deep technical foundation in programming PLCs (Rockwell and Beckhoff) and operating robotic controllers (Fanuc, Kuka, Kawasaki) to effectively teach technical concepts.
• Familiarity with Ignition SCADA, HMI platforms, and design software (EPLAN or AutoCAD Electrical) to support curriculum authoring.
• Functional understanding of industrial communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, IO-Link, Profinet) to explain network logic to trainees.
• Outstanding presentation and interpersonal skills, with a strong ability to break down complex automated sequences into clear, digestible lessons.

Responsibilities

• Instructional Delivery: Serve as the primary instructor for Technical Trades programs, teaching Mechatronics, and Industrial Automation.
• Curriculum Development: Design and maintain platform-specific coursework for PLC programming (Rockwell, Beckhoff) and SCADA/HMI platforms (Ignition).
• Robotics Coursework: Develop comprehensive training modules for Fanuc, Kuka, and Kawasaki robotics, covering path programming, controller setup, and lab-based exercise sequences.
• Hands-On Lab Design: Creatively source, design, and build training fixtures, such as simulated PLC racks and dedicated training cells, for interactive instruction.
• Sustainable Upskilling: Coach internal facilitators on effective adult learning strategies and Standardized Work Instructions (SWI), enabling them to own, deliver, and continuously adapt training within their operational teams.
• Safety & Standards Instruction: Deliver training on industrial electrical standards, OSHA compliance, and NFPA guidelines for safeguarding automated equipment.
• Educational Partnerships: Collaborate with external educational partners and community organizations on apprenticeship curriculum development and accreditation.
• Continuous Learning: Integrate emerging technologies-including vision systems, autonomous systems, and advanced robotics-into the core curriculum roadmap.

Skills

Instructional skills

Adult education

PLC programming

Robotics knowledge

Education

BS/AAS in related field

Automation/Mechatronics cert

DOL apprenticeship completion

Tools

Ignition SCADA

EPLAN

AutoCAD Electrical

Rockwell PLC

Beckhoff PLC

Fanuc robotics

Kuka robotics

Kawasaki robotics

Job description

Belcan is seeking a Sr. Training Instructor (Controls & Automation) to design, develop, and deliver technical training for automated manufacturing systems.

The role emphasizes translating PLC logic, robotics, and industrial networking into engaging, hands-on learning experiences. The instructor will lead classroom and lab activities, build curriculum for Rockwell/Beckhoff PLCs and Ignition SCADA, and mentor facilitators in adult learning strategies.