Automation Specialist I

Prime Controls•Cedar Rapids, IA

About The Position

As an Automation Specialist I, you will assist with most aspects of system integration projects. This includes identifying parts and components for PLC, network, computer, and software systems; programming PLCs and HMIs; testing program logic and installed equipment; troubleshooting software and systems issues during startup; and developing required project documentation and user manuals. The role supports automation project development, configuration, testing, commissioning, customer training, and service. It involves working with engineers, project teams, customers, manufacturers, and vendors to resolve technical issues, and may require travel to customer and project sites.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related technical discipline; OR an associate degree or technical certification in automation, controls, instrumentation, electronics, or a related field; OR equivalent industrial controls experience.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and documentation.
Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with technical teams and customers.
Willingness to travel to customer and project sites as required.

Nice To Haves

Internship, co-op, academic, or professional experience working with industrial automation or control systems.

Responsibilities

Read and interpret electrical drawings, control diagrams, specifications, and other technical documentation.
Assist with developing bills of materials (BOMs), I/O lists, control panel requirements, and system documentation.
Develop and modify PLC programs using ladder logic, function block, and other related programming languages.
Develop and configure human machine interface (HMI) applications.
Assist with configuring industrial networks, computers, controllers, instrumentation, and other automation components.
Develop and execute hardware and software test plans, including simulation logic used to validate PLC and HMI functionality.
Support system startup, commissioning, and field testing at customer and project sites.
Troubleshoot PLC, HMI, network, instrumentation, hardware, and software issues.
Identify and resolve issues resulting from design changes, drawing discrepancies, instrumentation specifications, or field conditions.
Work with engineers, project teams, customers, manufacturers, and vendors to resolve technical issues.
Develop and maintain project documentation, operating procedures, and user manuals.
Provide customers with training on the operation and use of completed automation systems.
Respond to service requests and assist with diagnosing and resolving control system failures as needed.