Automations Controls Technician II (Days)
SunOpta•Alexandria, MN
•Onsite
About The Position
The Automation Controls Technician II is responsible for independently troubleshooting, maintaining, and improving automation and control systems. This mid-level role supports production and facility operations by diagnosing complex electrical and controls issues, performing control system modifications, and assisting with automation projects. The Technician II serves as a technical resource for junior technicians and works closely with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED required
- 3–5 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation and controls, including independent troubleshooting of PLC-based control systems
- Strong working knowledge of PLCs, industrial controls, and electrical systems
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and read, troubleshoot, and modify PLC ladder logic
- Experience independently troubleshooting control panels, instrumentations, field devices, and industrial automation networks
- Demonstrated understanding of digital and analog I/O, instrumentation, sensors, actuators, and industrial control circuits
- Proficient with electrical test equipment and diagnostic tools
Nice To Haves
- Associate degree or technical certification in Automation, Electronics, Mechatronics, or related field preferred
- Hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley PLC platforms, including ControlLogix and CompactLogix, experience with other industrial PLC platforms is also valued.
- HMI development and troubleshooting experience, Rockwell FactoryTalk View experience preferred
- VFD, servo, and motion control experience
- Experience with Ethernet/IP, industrial Ethernet, and other industrial communication networks
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Experience supporting automated manufacturing processes in a high-speed production environment
- Ability to mentor, train, and provide guidance to junior technicians
Responsibilities
- Independently troubleshoot and repair PLC-based control systems and automated equipment
- Diagnose electrical, controls, and instrumentation issues with minimal supervision
- Perform systematic troubleshooting of automated systems from PLC logic and I/O through instrumentation, field devices, and controlled equipment
- Troubleshoot and modify PLC logic, HMI applications, and control parameters in accordance with engineering standards
- Install, test, and commission control panels, field devices, and automation components
- Perform advanced troubleshooting of VFDs, servos, instrumentation, field devices, and industrial communication networks
- Support continuous improvement initiatives and automation upgrades
- Participate in root cause analysis of automation and controls-related failures and implement corrective actions
- Mentor and support Automation Controls Technician I staff
- Maintain accurate controls documentation, system backups, and change records
- Ensure compliance with safety standards, electrical codes, and LOTO procedures
- Provide technical support during equipment startups, shutdowns, and downtime events
- Accountable to the SunOpta Manufacturing Food Safety and Quality Principles.
- All other duties, as assigned.
- Assist in coaching and training employees as requested by the management team.
- Completes and adheres to the Annual Alchemy Schedule.
Benefits
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Paid Family leave
- Paid maternity leave
- 401(k) with Match
- Voluntary Life, Accident, Critical Illness and Hospital indemnity
- Paid Holidays
- Tuition assistance
- Short-term and Long-term Disability insurance
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
