Automation Specialist

Lhoist•Ste. Genevieve, MO

About The Position

The Automation Specialist is the local equipment expert for their assigned area, either bringing specialized equipment knowledge or quickly developing it. The role provides electrical support to maintenance through training and mentoring hourly personnel, programming PLCs such as G.E. and Allen-Bradley systems, and assisting with configuration, troubleshooting, and maintenance of plant electronic and electrical components, distribution systems, and computer systems. The specialist troubleshoots process lines and automated systems, installs electrical components, and modifies existing components to meet code and operate properly. The position supports safe, reliable, and cost-effective plant operations by developing technical skills among craft personnel and contractors, supporting planned and unplanned equipment interruptions, maintaining production systems and associated hardware and software, and improving maintenance practices. Work includes electrical and electronic systems, PLCs, motor controls and drives, process instrumentation, computer and network systems, switchgear, and related plant equipment. The role also develops technical documentation, contributes to capital and equipment improvement planning, and applies root-cause problem solving to prevent recurring failures. The work takes place in both an office and mineral-processing environment, with exposure to severe weather and industrial conditions such as heat, cold, noise, vibration, oils, dust, fumes, and metallic particles. The employee may need to access heights up to 120 feet, confined spaces, tunnels, ladders, and stairs, and may travel up to 30% as needed or directed.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent.
At least 2–4 years of industrial electrical/electronic experience in heavy manufacturing, construction, and/or mining environments.
Strong PLC experience, including G.E. or Allen-Bradley systems, and experience programming and installing software and electrical/electronic control systems.
Strong understanding of conveyor systems and automation.
Experience directing hourly employees and managing subcontractors.
Ability to read and interpret electrical diagrams, schematics, standards, and codes.
Ability to perform required duties and lift up to 50 pounds.
Ability to work in severe weather and industrial conditions and access heights up to 120 feet, confined spaces, tunnels, ladders, and stairs.
Good verbal and written communication skills and ability to communicate at all levels.
Hands-on, team-oriented approach and ability to direct others.
Analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and projects and meet deadlines.
Strong sense of urgency in meeting customer needs.
Understanding of safety and willingness to follow established procedures.
Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office software.
Ability to perform low- and high-voltage terminations and work on switchgear up to 4160 volts.
Ability to use electrical test equipment and precision measuring tools.
Ability to fabricate and install conduit and perform soldering.
Ability to operate small mobile equipment.
Ability and willingness to work any shift, be on call, and work overtime and weekends as needed.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree in Electronics, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science, or equivalent work experience in the field.
Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
3–6 years of preferred experience.
Demonstrated project management experience with electrical maintenance and capital projects.
Strong conveyor belt system and layout experience.
Previous SAP knowledge.

Responsibilities

Comply with company, state, and governmental environmental, health, and safety regulations.
Mentor hourly craft personnel and subcontractors, develop system-specific training materials, and deliver formal and hands-on training.
Manage electrical work orders, electrical maintenance jobs, and contractors.
Install and configure electronic systems, electrical distribution systems, and computer systems.
Promote high-performance maintenance and implement the maintenance strategic plan for cost-effective asset management, equipment viability, and ongoing improvement.
Provide technical assistance to hourly craftspeople and engineers during planned and unplanned equipment service interruptions.
Maintain, support, and document computer and network hardware, software applications, and operating systems.
Troubleshoot electronics, equipment controls, electrical distribution systems, and computer hardware and software; repair or replace defective components and network devices.
Use root-cause problem-solving techniques to identify and eliminate recurring equipment failures.
Monitor relevant technologies and contribute input to capital project planning for equipment improvements.
Review preventive and predictive maintenance activities to ensure potential failure sources are identified before failures occur.
Develop technical documentation, including work instructions, standard operating procedures, and energy isolation checklists.
Assist with installation, upgrading, and maintenance of production systems hardware and software, and work on major repairs, new installations, and plant modifications.
Perform low- and high-voltage terminations and maintenance on switchgear up to 4160 volts.
Use electrical test equipment, including voltmeters, meggers, current generators, and loop calibrators.
Explain plant processes and identify major components.
Fabricate and install conduit and perform soldering operations.
Install, calibrate, troubleshoot, align, and maintain electrical motors, belt-weighing devices, AC and DC motors and drives, control valves, actuators, positioners, and starters.
Install, troubleshoot, repair, and maintain motor control circuits and air dryers.
Use precision measuring tools, including micrometers and dial indicators.
Use the CMMS correctly to complete, sign, and date work orders and checklists.
Apply knowledge of thermography and its uses.
Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair cameras, monitors, gas analyzers, pneumatic systems, and hydraulic systems.
Troubleshoot, calibrate, and maintain control loops, speed drives, pressure sensors, motion sensors, flow meters, flow control valves, level indicators, and temperature sensors.
Keep maintenance tools in good condition and arrange for repair or replacement when necessary.
Operate small mobile equipment.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Work any shift and be available for on-call work, overtime, and weekends as needed.
Travel up to 30% as needed or directed by leadership.