Automation Technician

Gerdau • Midlothian, TX

3d

About The Position

The Automation Technician installs, programs, maintains, and troubleshoots Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and industrial network infrastructure. The role connects industrial electrical automation with IT networking to support plant efficiency and uptime. Responsibilities include developing and modifying control code, managing operational technology (OT) networks, diagnosing automation-system faults, supporting HMI and IBA systems, commissioning installations and upgrades, and maintaining technical documentation and software backups.

Requirements

• Associate degree in Industrial Automation, Electronics, Mechatronics, or Computer Science, or equivalent trade school certifications.
• 10 years of experience working with industrial automated systems and OT networks.
• Proficiency with PLC software suites such as Rockwell/Allen-Bradley and Siemens.
• Understanding of networking fundamentals, including TCP/IP, DHCP, VLANs, and managed switches.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical blueprints, P&ID diagrams, and control schematics.
• Exceptional troubleshooting ability under pressure.
• Collaborative mindset and strong communication skills for working with engineers and floor operators.

Responsibilities

• Design, write, modify, and optimize PLC control code using Ladder Logic, Structured Text, and Function Blocks.
• Configure and maintain industrial communication protocols, including EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, and Modbus, and manage switches, routers, and firewalls on the OT network.
• Diagnose hardware and software faults in live automation systems, sensors, actuators, Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), and networked assets.
• Develop and update HMI and IBA graphics and alarms to provide operators with clear visibility into plant processes.
• Perform I/O checkouts, point-to-point wiring verification, and loop tuning during machine installations and system upgrades.
• Maintain current control schematics, network topology diagrams, and automated software code backups.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Associate degree