Company Overview
[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]
Role Overview
[$COMPANY_NAME] is hiring a Junior Automation Technician to join our automation and controls engineering team. In this hands-on entry-level role you will support commissioning, maintenance, and incremental improvements of manufacturing automation systems. You will work under direction of senior technicians and engineers to diagnose faults, execute repairs, and validate control logic on PLC/SCADA-driven equipment. This role is ideal for candidates with foundational electrical/mechanical skills, basic PLC familiarity, and a strong aptitude for learning industrial control systems (ICS).
Responsibilities
- Support installation, start-up, troubleshooting and preventative maintenance of automated machinery, conveyors, robots, and process equipment under supervision
- Execute diagnostic procedures and root-cause investigations using schematics, I/O lists, and historical fault data
- Perform PLC program checks, basic ladder logic edits, and HMI adjustments under lead technician guidance
- Carry out electrical tasks to replace sensors, relays, contactors and other field devices safely and in accordance with lockout/tagout procedures
- Assist with wiring harness assembly, cable routing, and sensor calibration; maintain neat, documented terminations
- Run validation checks after repairs: signal continuity, sensor thresholds, interlock behavior and safety circuits
- Log work in CMMS and update standard operating procedures (SOPs), work orders, and test reports
- Participate in shift handovers, toolbox talks, and continuous improvement activities (Kaizen events) to reduce downtime
- Escalate complex electrical, control-system or mechanical failures to senior technicians/engineers and support corrective action implementation
- Adhere to site safety protocols, PPE requirements, and quality control standards (ISO/TQM practices as applicable)
Required and Preferred Qualifications
Required:
- Technical diploma, vocational certificate, or equivalent hands-on experience in industrial maintenance, mechatronics, or electro-mechanical technology (0–2 years experience)
- Practical experience with basic electrical wiring, reading electrical schematics, and using multimeters
- Familiarity with PLC fundamentals (I/O, ladder logic concepts) and exposure to one PLC brand (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi, or equivalent)
- Basic mechanical aptitude: pneumatics, bearings, belt/chain drives, and routine machine adjustments
- Ability to follow detailed troubleshooting procedures, maintain accurate work records, and learn technical documentation
- Valid authorization to work in the country of employment and willingness to work shift schedules where required
Preferred:
- Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, Automation, or equivalent
- Hands-on experience with HMI/SCADA systems, basic scripting (Python, VBScript) or test automation tools
- Certifications such as OSHA 10/30, IPC-A-610, NCCER, or manufacturer-specific PLC/HMI training
- Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, PROFINET)
- Experience using CMMS systems (e.g., SAP PM, Maximo) and version control for control software
Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies
- PLC platforms: Allen-Bradley/RSLogix/Studio 5000, Siemens TIA Portal, or equivalent
- HMI/SCADA: FactoryTalk, WinCC, Ignition, Wonderware or comparable systems
- Electrical: 120VAC/240VAC circuits, motor starters, relays, contactors, safety relays, and control transformers
- Instrumentation: proximity/inductive/photoelectric sensors, encoders, flow/pressure/temperature transducers
- Mechanical: pneumatics, hydraulic basics, locks and couplings; basic hand and power tools for assembly and repair
- Test & diagnostic tools: digital multimeter, clamp meter, insulation tester, oscilloscope (basic), and loop calibrator
- Software & scripting: basic Python or scripting for test automation, Excel for data logging and trend analysis
- Standards & protocols: OSHA/EN safety standards, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, PROFINET, and IEC 61131 concepts
Soft Skills and Cultural Fit
- Eagerness to learn and a demonstrable apprenticeship mindset—seeking mentorship from senior technicians and engineers
- Strong attention to detail and methodical documentation habits for maintenance logs and change records
- Effective verbal and written communication skills for clear shift handovers and cross-functional coordination
- Proactive problem awareness: ability to escalate appropriately and propose incremental fixes that reduce repeat failures
- Team-oriented, dependable, punctual, and committed to safety-first decision making
- Comfort working in high-paced manufacturing environments with a continuous improvement mentality
Benefits and Perks
Salary: [$SALARY_RANGE]
- Comprehensive medical, dental and vision insurance
- Paid time off, holiday pay and paid training time for certifications
- Apprenticeship and career development programs with paid vendor/manufacturer training
- Tuition assistance and skills development stipends
- 401(k) or local retirement plan with company match where applicable
- Overtime opportunities and shift differential where applicable
- Employee assistance program, wellness resources, and on-site safety equipment
Equal Opportunity Statement
[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Candidates with non-linear career paths and transferable skills are encouraged to apply.
Location
This position is based on-site in [$COMPANY_LOCATION] and requires regular attendance at the facility. Some roles may include shift work; relocation assistance may be available depending on candidate circumstances.
How to Apply
We encourage applicants who meet some or most of the qualifications to apply. Please submit a resume and brief cover letter highlighting relevant hands-on experience, certifications, and your eagerness to learn. Applicants with gaps in formal credentials but strong demonstrable skills and motivation will be considered.