Senior PLC Controls Technician – Field Lead

Norlee Group (NLG)

Hickory (NC)

On-site

USD 90,000 - 120,000

Full time

2 days ago

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Job summary

Norlee Group is seeking an experienced Lead PLC Controls Technician to serve as the technical lead for installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, commissioning, and repair of industrial control systems and automation equipment. This senior role coordinates field activities, provides direction to technicians and electricians, and acts as a primary customer contact across projects.

The ideal candidate will diagnose complex control-system issues, perform authorized programming adjustments, and

Qualifications

Minimum five years with PLC controls, automation, or electrical control systems, including leading field activities.
Advanced hands-on experience connecting to, monitoring, programming, and troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment.
Ability to provide technical direction and coordinate work for technicians.
Strong knowledge of ladder logic, control circuits, motor controls, and electrical systems.
Experience with HMIs, VFDs, sensors, relays, and instrumentation.
Ability to diagnose complex control-system failures and perform root-cause analysis.
Ability to read electrical schematics, control drawings, and project specs.
Experience with electrical testing equipment (DMMs).
Understanding of industrial communication protocols and networks.
Strong planning, organization, troubleshooting, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and mentor others.

Responsibilities

Lead onsite technical activities for control-system installations, service, startups, and commissioning.
Coordinate daily work assignments, materials, tools, and technical activities for technicians, electricians, and subcontractors.
Provide hands-on guidance, coaching, and troubleshooting support to team members.
Monitor safety, quality, and progress; communicate concerns or scope changes to management.
Verify work complies with specifications, drawings, and codes.
Install, maintain, troubleshoot PLC-based systems and automation equipment.
Diagnose electrical, control, and programming issues affecting performance.
Connect to PLCs to monitor and adjust logic as needed.
Troubleshoot HMIs, VFDs, sensors, and instrumentation.
Read and interpret drawings and process diagrams; support startup and commissioning.
Lead pre-task planning, toolbox talks, and safety activities.
Mentor and train technicians in PLC troubleshooting and documentation.