Automation & Controls Technician

West Fraser•Greenville, SC

1d•Remote

About The Position

As an Automation & Controls Technician at West Fraser, you will play a key role in the expansion of the automation and predictive controls capabilities (AI) of our OSB and lumber manufacturing network by providing remote technical support for our daily operations. This role involves remotely monitoring critical devices, analyzing system issues, assisting with equipment setup and repair, providing programming support, troubleshooting, logging system issues, and upgrading facilities to meet automation and digitization standards. You will also be responsible for implementing and maintaining West Fraser Analytics System (NAS), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), Model Predictive Control (MPC), and Rockwell ECO System across all facilities. Additionally, you will support continuous improvement and project management objectives by developing PLC programs and HMIs, providing data for project analysis, configuring process data collection, auditing automation changes, and keeping firmware/software up-to-date.

Requirements

An Associate’s degree, equivalent, or greater in Mechatronics, Industrial Electrical, Engineering Technology OR equivalent prior experience as a Technician with good programming/technical skills and prior OSB experience
Highly collaborative, technology savvy (proficiency in use of collaboration tools), and willing to learn
Proficient in programming and troubleshooting of Programmable Logic Controllers (preferably Rockwell ControlLogix)
Ability to visualize physical processes to remotely assist field personnel in set up and troubleshooting
Excellent verbal and written communication skills including ability to interpret and disseminate technical info to a wide range of skill sets and support roles
Ability to work in shifts and variable schedules to support a 24/7 manufacturing schedule
Ability to work well as a team and independently

Nice To Haves

Experience with VMware ESX, virtualization and other computer science fundamentals is preferred
Experience with VB, SQL, Python or Json programming is favorable
Knowledge of, or willingness to learn the OSB and lumber manufacturing process

Responsibilities

From our Greenville office remotely monitoring the status of critical devices including electrical and mechanical components, circuitry, controls, robotics and other manufacturing machinery and assist in service, repair, and calibration of these devices for multiple OSB and lumber mills
Analyzing and identifying causes of system issues and assist in breakdown recovery
Assisting in set-up of new and replacement equipment
Providing programming support for day-to-day process changes
Troubleshooting as needed in coordination with onsite technicians
Answering and logging system issues or requests for assistance from automated system monitors or mill manufacturing staff
Assisting in upgrading facilities to conform to enhanced automation and digitization standards including providing onsite support of infrastructure installation and commissioning
Implementing and maintaining West Fraser Analytics System (NAS), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), Model Predictive Control (MPC), and Rockwell ECO System across all facilities
Developing PLC programs and HMIs in accordance with West Fraser standards and capital expense guidelines
Providing data and support of mill level project analysis and execution
Configuring tags and templates for process data collection, trending, and reporting
Auditing changes in the mill automation environment
Keeping firmware and software revisions up to date
Support Automation team as needed