Industrial Controls Technician – Custom Automation Systems

Position Summary

The Industrial Controls Technician is responsible for troubleshooting, repairing, maintaining, and improving custom automated manufacturing cells operating within a controlled production environment. This role requires advanced technical expertise in industrial controls, automation systems, robotics integration, and electrical troubleshooting. A strong emphasis is placed on quality standards, root cause analysis, documentation accuracy, and adherence to established procedures.

The successful candidate will work closely with engineering, production, quality, and maintenance teams to ensure maximum equipment uptime while maintaining compliance with regulatory and internal quality requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Diagnose and repair complex automation systems, including PLC-controlled equipment, HMI interfaces, industrial networks, robotics, vision systems, sensors, and motion control devices.
• Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and control system failures within custom automated manufacturing cells.
• Perform preventive and predictive maintenance activities to maximize equipment reliability and performance.
• Analyze equipment faults using schematics, ladder logic, wiring diagrams, system documentation, and diagnostic software.
• Support validation, qualification, and startup activities for new and modified automation equipment.
• Maintain strict compliance with quality standards, controlled procedures, and change management requirements.
• Accurately document troubleshooting activities, repairs, corrective actions, equipment modifications, and maintenance records.
• Assist in developing and updating equipment documentation, work instructions, maintenance procedures, and technical records.
• Collaborate with engineering teams on continuous improvement initiatives focused on reliability, quality, safety, and process efficiency.
• Ensure all work is performed in accordance with safety policies, lockout/tagout procedures, and applicable regulatory requirements.

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree or technical certification in Industrial Automation, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, Electronics, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• Experience troubleshooting custom automated manufacturing equipment and industrial control systems.
• Proficiency with PLC platforms such as Allen-Bradley or Automation Direct. Proficiency with Fanuc Robotic systems.
• Experience with HMI systems, VFDs, servo drives, motion control systems, and industrial communication networks. Keyence, Cognex, or Festo experience is a plus.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, control drawings, P&IDs, and technical documentation.
• Strong understanding of sensors, actuators, relays, safety circuits, and machine controls.
• Demonstrated ability to perform structured troubleshooting and root cause analysis.
• Strong computer skills and experience with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) and technical documentation systems (Fiix).
• Excellent written communication skills with a high level of attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting automation systems in regulated or controlled environments.
• Familiarity with robotics, machine vision systems, and automated inspection equipment.
• Certification in PLC programming, industrial controls, or related technical disciplines.

Core Competencies

• Advanced troubleshooting and analytical thinking
• Documentation accuracy and attention to detail
• Quality-focused decision making
• Process discipline and procedural compliance
• Effective cross-functional communication
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Safety awareness and risk assessment
• Ability to work independently and prioritize multiple assignments

Working Environment

This position is performed in a controlled manufacturing environment supporting highly customized automation cells and production equipment. The role requires frequent interaction with engineering, quality, and operations personnel.

Special/ Additional Requirements: Persons in this position may be required to pass a drug, alcohol, and/or criminal background check.

AMT is Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer