Automation & Controls Specialist

Johnson Controls•York, PA

1d•$79,000 - $108,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Automation & Controls Specialist combines hands-on technical work on the production floor with office-based engineering and programming responsibilities. Approximately 50% of the role involves supporting equipment, troubleshooting control systems, and executing automation projects in the field; the other 50% focuses on controls programming, system improvements, documentation, project support, and developing automation and robotics requirements. The specialist works closely with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, Engineering, and Operational Excellence teams to identify automation opportunities, develop practical solutions, and support the deployment of manufacturing technologies across the facility.

Requirements

Associate degree, technical diploma, vocational training, or equivalent work experience in Automation Technology, Mechatronics, Electrical Technology, Industrial Maintenance, or a related technical field.
2–3 years of experience supporting industrial automation and manufacturing systems.
Hands-on experience troubleshooting and supporting PLCs, HMIs, industrial robots, sensors, machine vision systems, industrial networks, and related manufacturing equipment.
Strong mechanical, electrical, and controls troubleshooting skills.
Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, technical drawings, and equipment documentation.
Self-motivated team player with strong communication skills, able to work independently and collaborate with operations, maintenance, engineering, contractors, and equipment suppliers in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

Support the day-to-day operation, maintenance, and improvement of automated manufacturing equipment and control systems.
Troubleshoot and resolve issues involving PLCs, HMIs, industrial robots, sensors, vision systems, variable frequency drives, and industrial communication networks.
Develop, modify, and maintain PLC, HMI, robot, and automation programs for manufacturing operations and continuous improvement initiatives.
Perform root cause analysis of equipment downtime and implement corrective actions to improve reliability and performance.
Develop and document automation system improvements, including control logic, electrical requirements, equipment standards, and technical documentation.
Assist in developing technical specifications, scope documents, and requirements for new automation, robotics, and manufacturing system installations.
Support the evaluation, selection, and implementation of automation technologies, robotic systems, tooling, and manufacturing equipment.
Work with external integrators, equipment suppliers, and contractors during system installation, startup, and commissioning.
Coordinate contractor activities, including project planning, onboarding, safety compliance, and execution oversight.
Support machine acceptance testing, commissioning, validation, and startup of new equipment and automation systems.
Collect and review equipment and production performance data to support troubleshooting and continuous improvement.
Collaborate with maintenance and production teams to schedule automation work while minimizing production disruptions.
Participate in kaizen events, continuous improvement projects, cost reduction initiatives, and equipment modernization efforts.
Maintain accurate control drawings, network architecture, program backups, operating procedures, and technical records.
Provide technical coaching and support to operators, maintenance personnel, and production teams on automation systems and equipment.
Ensure work complies with company safety standards, engineering practices, and applicable regulations.