Systems Technician

empirical foods, inc.; South Sioux City (NE); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

empirical foods, inc. seeks a Systems Technician to support industrial automation and controls across the facility. You will work with PLCs, electronic systems, and industrial networks, gaining hands-on experience while collaborating with seasoned systems specialists in a manufacturing environment.

The role emphasizes troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and collaboration with engineering teams on tests and pilot runs for new products and processes, with a focus on safety and reliability.

Qualifications

• Blueprints, schematics, and electrical code reading.
• Foundational knowledge of PLCs and control systems.
• Basic understanding of electronic principles and troubleshooting.
• General computer knowledge.
• Familiarity with electrical testing equipment.

Responsibilities

• Install, test, and maintain PLC and motion control systems.
• Troubleshoot industrial electronic equipment with supervision.
• Maintain hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
• Install communication and power cables and wiring.
• Assemble and disassemble equipment following procedures.
• Respond to alarms and monitor control logic and wiring.
• Support R&D testing, wiring, and pilot runs.
• Assist with production start-up and shutdown activities.

Skills

Blueprints reading

Electronic principles

PLCs & control systems

Computer literacy

Electrical testing equipment

Education

Vocational/technical training in automation or electrical

Job description

Overview

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.

Department: Systems Engineering.

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