Systems Technician

empirical Foods; South Sioux City (NE); On-site; USD 52,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Dental/Vision

Disability insurance

Life insurance

Flex medical

Dependent care

401(k) match

Profit sharing

Paid vacation

Paid holidays

Job summary

empirical Foods in South Sioux City, NE is seeking a Systems Technician to support electronic and control systems in a manufacturing setting. You'll work with PLCs, motion control, and industrial networks to keep operations running smoothly.

This hands-on role offers practical exposure to automation technology, opportunities to learn from experienced specialists, and a path to deepen expertise in electrical maintenance, system diagnostics, and preventive maintenance.

Qualifications

• Experience reading blueprints, schematics, and electrical code.
• Foundation in PLCs and control systems.
• Basic electronics principles and troubleshooting.
• General computer knowledge and network awareness.

Responsibilities

• Electronic Systems Support: install, test, and maintain PLC and motion control systems.
• Control Systems & Monitoring: respond to alarms, review logic, test wiring, and monitor systems.
• Project Support: assist start-up/shut-down activities and R&D wiring/troubleshooting.
• Network & IT Systems: assist with industrial LANs, security, and servers.
• Documentation & Communication: maintain performance records and coordinate with teams.
• Additional: maintain regular attendance and flexibility for varied hours.

Skills

PLC systems

Industrial networks

Electrical troubleshooting

Documentation/records

Education

2-year vocational/technical school in automation/electrical/electronics

Job description

Grow your career in industrial automation and controls as a Systems Technician. You'll work with electronic systems, PLCs, and industrial networks that power our operations. This hands-on role offers exposure to automation technology while learning from experienced systems specialists in a manufacturing environment.

Why This Role Matters

You’ll support the advanced electronic and control systems that automate our operations. This role provides excellent opportunities to develop specialized skills in industrial automation, PLCs, and network systems.

Responsibilities

Electronic Systems Support

• Assist with installation, testing, and maintenance of PLC and motion control systems.
• Support troubleshooting of industrial electronic equipment with support from supervision.
• Help maintain hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
• Assist with installation of communication cables, power distribution cables, and wiring.
• Work with the team to assemble and disassemble equipment while following established procedures.

Control Systems & Monitoring

• Respond to alarms and out-of-parameter readings with guidance.
• Review control logic, check set points, and test electrical wiring.
• Monitor various systems, such as chemical tanks and boiler systems.
• Perform assigned preventative maintenance tasks (filters, water tanks, scale calibration, label systems).

Project Support

• Assist with production start-up and shut-down activities.
• Support R&D testing activities including wiring, unwiring, and troubleshooting.
• Participate in continuous improvement projects.
• Work with engineers on tests and pilot runs for new products and processes.

Network & IT Systems

• Assist with computer systems, network equipment, and industrial LANs.
• Support security systems and video surveillance systems.
• Help maintain servers and network infrastructure.

Documentation & Communication

• Effectively maintain required performance and maintenance records.
• Document electronic and electrical equipment activities.
• Communicate with Systems Engineering management on projects and issues.
• Collaborate with maintenance and electromechanical teams as needed.

Additional

• Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Must have regular and punctual attendance.
• Flexibility to work varied hours, including weekends as needed.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to read blueprints, schematic diagrams, and electrical code.
• Basic understanding of electronic principles and troubleshooting.
• Foundational knowledge of PLCs and control systems.
• General computer knowledge and proficiency.
• Familiarity with electrical testing equipment.

Demonstrated Competencies

• Analytical skills to assist with troubleshooting precision equipment.
• Effective verbal and written communication across all organizational levels.
• Attention to detail in following procedures and documentation.
• Willingness to learn complex electronic and control systems.
• Team-oriented with collaborative approach.
• Ability to work independently.
• Safety-focused mindset.

Physical Requirements

• This position requires sitting, standing, walking, climbing, twisting, reaching, bending, and lifting.
• Must be able to lift, push, and pull up to 60lbs.

Experience: 1+ years of electrical work experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment (preferred). Exposure to PLCs, automation, or control systems. Entry-level candidates with strong electronics background will be considered.

Education: 2-year vocational/technical school in automation, electrical, electronics, or related field (highly preferred). Relevant technical certifications or military training welcomed.

Benefits We Offer

Our company is known for its competitive pay, benefits, and opportunities to advance. Depending on position benefits may include: Health/Dental/Vision, Disability, Life, Flex Medical and Dependent Care, Matching 401(k), Profit Sharing, Paid Vacation and Holidays.

Our company is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, religion, national origin or sex in violation of Title VII. The company prohibits discrimination against employees, applicants for employment and students on the basis of age, color, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran’s status.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Vet/Disabled

Post offer physical and substance testing required.