Technician- Automation I USA (Day Crew/AM Shift)
The Automation Technician I supports manufacturing operations by troubleshooting, programming, and maintaining electrical and control systems for manufacturing equipment. This entry-level role involves equipment startup assistance, process optimization, and collaboration across departments to ensure efficient and safe manufacturing processes. The position requires hands-on technical skills in PLC/HMI programming, electrical schematics, and control network troubleshooting within a manufacturing environment.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
This is an entry-level Automation Technician (Controls) role supporting manufacturing operations at a confidential client’s production site in Gaffney, SC. You will help with equipment implementation and startup, PLC/HMI programming, troubleshooting and optimization of process control systems, and maintaining electrical/control documentation.
- Support, troubleshoot, repair and maintain electrical and electronic control systems for manufacturing equipment.
- Assist with new equipment installation, integration events (including MES), and software upgrades.
- Create and maintain electrical schematics and panel layouts using AutoCAD.
- Troubleshoot PLC (Rockwell Logix) and HMI (FactoryTalk View ME / Proface) systems.
- Support network and control communications (ControlNet, DeviceNet, Profibus, Ethernet) and basic SQL/OPC data collection.
- Provide remote and on-site support to manufacturing facilities as needed.
- Document findings, propose solutions, and drive continuous improvement projects.
- Work cross-functionally and maintain adherence to safety and housekeeping standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Troubleshoot and resolve electrical/control failures in a manufacturing environment.
- Implement software changes and upgrades per Controls Engineering direction.
- Maintain up-to-date electrical drawings and record equipment changes.
- Support robotic systems at a basic level (troubleshooting, programming, safety).
- Collect and interpret data to support root-cause analysis and process improvements.
- Respond to support requests and escalate unresolved issues as appropriate.
- Participate in testing, commissioning and verification of equipment and control systems.
Qualifications
Minimum qualifications (must-haves):
- Minimum 2 years of manufacturing equipment electrical/electronic/controls experience OR 5+ years verifiable related experience if no degree.
- Hands-on experience programming/troubleshooting Rockwell Automation Logix PLCs.
- Experience with HMI systems (FactoryTalk View ME preferred; Proface a plus).
- Familiarity with industrial control networks (e.g., Ethernet, DeviceNet, ControlNet, Profibus).
- Competency with AutoCAD for electrical schematics and panel layouts.
- Basic SQL and OPC/data collection familiarity.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to work independently and prioritize tasks.
- Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment.
Preferred:
- Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Robotics, Industrial Controls, or Electronic Engineering.
Work Schedule & Location
- Location: Gaffney, SC (on-site).
- Shift: AM or PM crew. AM shift: ~6:00 AM – 6:10 PM; PM shift: ~6:00 PM – 6:10 AM. Rotating 36/48 hour work week (includes every other Friday, Saturday and Sunday).
- Travel: No routine travel required. May require travel for site startup training.
Compensation
- Estimated pay range: $26.97 - $38.46 per hour (hourly range provided by confidential client).
Physical & Other Requirements
- May sit, stand, or walk short distances for up to 12 hours/day.
- Frequent stair/step climbing; lifting up to 37 lbs frequently, up to 58 lbs occasionally.
- Pushing/pulling up to 37–50 lbs depending on task.
- Ability to reach, stoop, kneel, bend occasionally.
- 20/40 vision (with or without correction) and ability to distinguish red/yellow/green.
- Must comply with safety procedures and wear required PPE (steel-toed shoes, safety glasses/goggles, hearing protection, respirator may be required).
- Employment contingent on successful background check and any tests required by the client.
Additional Information
- This position has no direct reports.
- Job description subject to change.
- Confidential Client is an equal opportunity employer; candidates will be considered without regard to protected characteristics.
- Reasonable accommodation: applicants who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Careertakes.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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