Technician- Automation I USA (B Crew/PM Shift)

First Solar (US)•Gaffney, SC

7h•$27 - $38•Onsite

About The Position

This is an entry-level automation controls technician position supporting manufacturing operations. The technician assists with equipment implementation and startup, PLC/HMI programming, and troubleshooting and optimization of manufacturing process control systems. The role directly supports a manufacturing site and may also provide remote support to worldwide manufacturing facilities. The employee is assigned to an AM or PM crew: AM is 6:00 a.m.–6:10 p.m. and PM is 6:00 p.m.–6:10 a.m. The schedule rotates between 36- and 48-hour work weeks and includes working every other Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The position has no direct reports. No travel is required under normal circumstances; employees hired during plant startup are expected to travel to other First Solar locations for training. The estimated pay range is $26.97–$38.46 per hour. Employment offers are contingent on successfully completing a background check and any other required tests. The job description may change at any time, and other duties may be assigned.

Requirements

At least 2 years of manufacturing equipment electrical, electronic, or controls experience.
Without a degree, at least 5 years of verifiable experience in a related field, such as semiconductors or automotive.
Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and set priorities.
Ability to interpret data and draw reasonable conclusions to assist with troubleshooting.
Knowledge of reading electrical and mechanical drawings and suggesting modifications as needed.
Knowledge of manufacturing processes and safety requirements.
Demonstrated troubleshooting and problem-solving ability with electrical/electronic control systems in a manufacturing environment.
Competency with Autodesk AutoCAD drafting software to create electrical schematics and panel layouts.
Knowledge of programming and troubleshooting Rockwell Automation Logix platform PLCs.
Knowledge of programming and troubleshooting Rockwell Automation HMIs using FactoryTalk View ME.
Knowledge of troubleshooting at least two control networks, such as ControlNet, DeviceNet, Profibus, or Ethernet.
Basic understanding of robotic systems, including troubleshooting, programming, and safety.
Knowledge of computer hardware/applications and Microsoft Office.
Basic understanding of corporate Ethernet architectures and systems.
Proficient verbal and written communication skills.
Basic understanding of SQL database tables and queries.
Basic understanding of data collection processes and OPC protocols.
Ability to meet the stated physical demands and comply with safety standards and procedures.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, which may include steel-toed shoes, cut-resistant gloves, protective clothing, safety glasses or goggles, hearing protection, and respirators.

Nice To Haves

Associate or bachelor's degree in Electrical, Robotics, Industrial Controls, or Electronic Engineering.
Proface HMI experience.

Responsibilities

Support manufacturing facilities, including remote support of worldwide manufacturing facilities.
Troubleshoot, repair, problem-solve, and maintain electrical control systems for manufacturing equipment.
Assist with coordination of new equipment installation and implementation, including MES integration events.
Maintain and update manufacturing process tool electrical drawings, document equipment changes, and keep drawings current.
Implement software changes and upgrades specified by the Controls Engineering Department.
Identify, research, document, and present solutions to control problems and continuous improvement projects.
Interface with multiple departments and maintain effective communication and team building.
Follow safety procedures and good housekeeping standards.
Understand client requirements, collect data, deliver analysis and problem resolution, recommend options, and implement solutions when required.
Collaborate with stakeholders and help ensure proposed solutions are understood and used effectively.
Monitor opportunities to apply new technologies and contribute to briefings and presentations about their potential organizational value.
Assist with collecting safety assurance evidence and document hazard and risk analysis activities in accordance with safety, technical, and quality standards.
Investigate and recommend components and subsystems that meet sustainability criteria.
Perform, analyze, and document evaluations according to a plan.
Configure software and equipment, test platform-specific software versions, report test outcomes, and identify potential improvements.
Use system management tools to collect performance statistics and carry out agreed system software maintenance tasks.
Identify and resolve application issues, collect application performance statistics, and perform agreed application maintenance.
Carry out routine operational procedures and contribute to maintenance, installation, and problem resolution.
Identify and resolve network problems, collect network performance statistics, and carry out agreed network maintenance.
Initiate and monitor investigations of system and service problems and assist with implementing remedies and preventative measures.
Handle support requests according to agreed procedures, provide information to support incident resolution, escalate unresolved requests appropriately, maintain records, and advise relevant people of actions taken.
Perform other duties as assigned.