Automation Controls Service Technician

Samuel, Son & Co.•Waterloo, ON

2d•Onsite

About The Position

As a key member of the Automation Services team, the Automation Controls Service Technician plays a critical role in supporting, developing, troubleshooting, and commissioning control programs for custom automation equipment. This role requires expertise in a range of technologies, including PLCs, HMIs, vision systems, robots, AMRs, servo systems, and PC-based software applications. The specialist must be skilled in diagnosing and resolving equipment issues, with the ability to work independently both on-site at customer facilities and remotely.

Requirements

College or university degree in Engineering or a related discipline.
3–5 years of progressive, hands-on experience in automation and controls environments.
Strong understanding of PLC programming and integration (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Beckhoff, Omron, etc.).
Experience in troubleshooting and repairing electro-mechanical systems and subsystems.
Proficiency in controls design, commissioning, and service for custom automated machinery.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong customer focus.
Valid passport and driver’s license, with availability to travel locally and internationally.
Availability to participate in on-call or emergency support rotations.

Nice To Haves

Resolving complex automation, electrical, and control system issues.
Interpreting and analyzing electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
Communicating effectively with both customers and internal technical teams.
Managing multiple service assignments and priorities with professionalism and precision.
Applying strong knowledge of pneumatics, hydraulics, and electrical control systems.
Delivering high-quality customer service and following through to ensure complete satisfaction.

Responsibilities

Perform all work safely and efficiently, following company Health and Safety policies and applicable standards.
Troubleshoot and repair control and electrical systems at customer sites, ensuring proper operation and minimal downtime.
Identify, report, and resolve abnormal equipment conditions promptly.
Execute field service activities according to project schedules, scope, and customer requirements.
Prepare and submit detailed service and follow-up reports to ensure complete resolution of customer issues.
Provide remote technical assistance and participate in a rotational on-call schedule.
Work both independently and collaboratively in multi-disciplinary project environments.
Deliver technical training to customer operations and maintenance personnel as required.
Recommend tools, equipment, or system improvements to optimize customer operations.
Design, develop, and program control systems based on customer requirements, company standards, and project specifications.
Commission, install, and validate automated equipment at customer facilities.
Collaborate with internal design and engineering teams to ensure successful system integration and functionality.
Work with Samuel Automation Controls department on machines in facility as required.
Utilize programming standards of the Samuel Automation Controls department.
Document program changes, configurations, and updates for traceability and future support.
Commission and integrate Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) systems across North America, including on-site deployment and interface with other automated systems.
Modify AMR maps and logic using third-party systems and PLC programming.
Optimize system performance through analysis, simulation, and testing.
Document lessons and collaborate with the AMR System Integration team to enhance tools, processes, and solutions.