Batching Systems Automation Technician

Cencora•Colorado Springs, TX

1d•$51,500 - $73,700•Hybrid

About The Position

The Batching Systems Automation Technician is responsible for installing, configuring, maintaining, and supporting industrial automation systems used in production animal operations (primarily dairy and feedlot). These systems control the batching and delivery of feed ingredients and additives and represent mission-critical infrastructure. This role requires a cross-disciplinary skill set spanning industrial automation, electrical systems, livestock production, networking, and various software environments. Technicians must be capable of independently troubleshooting hardware, software, and mechanical systems under time-sensitive conditions, both remotely and in active industrial environments. The position is primarily remote but requires frequent travel to rural customer facilities for installation, troubleshooting, repair, and training. This position operates at the intersection of industrial automation and production agriculture and requires strong independent judgment and problem-solving ability.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in Agricultural Engineering, Precision Agriculture, Electrical Engineering, Animal Science, Industrial Technology, or related technical field OR Completion of technical trade school or apprenticeship training in electrical systems, automation, or industrial technology
1 – 3 years of experience in one or more of the following: Agricultural operations, Industrial automation and networking, PLC systems, Electrical systems
Proficiency in: Industrial control systems, Troubleshooting hardware/software systems, Professional communication (verbal and written), Networking fundamentals
Valid driver’s license
Ability to pass background and drug screening
Ability to travel and work safely in outdoor/industrial environments
Ability to work in various climates/environments
Ability to lift equipment and work around machinery
Associate’s degree or 2 years of college experience preferably in Animal Science, Feedlot Management, Nutrition, or other related major.
Two to three years of experience working in a feed yard, primarily in the feed management division.
Working knowledge of PCs, operating systems, data bases, software engines, and other related software is required.
Need to have general knowledge of cattle and agricultural processes.
Position requires valid driver’s license and frequent travel in the United States.
Overnight travel required 50% of the time.

Nice To Haves

Experience with: Livestock operations and high-volume feed milling, PLC systems and automation, MS Office, Industrial communications (serial, radio, etc.), SQL databases, Linux operating systems
Bilingual Spanish

Responsibilities

Install, configure, and support PLC-based batching and control systems
Integrate automation systems with scales, flow meters, pumps, augers, and other mill equipment
Configure and troubleshoot I/O systems and control logic
Support system commissioning, testing, and validation
Diagnose and resolve automation and control system faults
Install, configure, and troubleshoot industrial communication systems including: RS-232 and RS-485 serial networks, 900 MHz radio systems (client/server configurations), Ethernet and WiFi infrastructure
Support integration between PLCs, batching software, and field equipment
Build and repair communication cabling and connections
Assist with installation and maintenance of control wiring, communication wiring, and power systems applying working knowledge of: 120V / 240V / 480V AC systems (single and three-phase power), 12V / 24V DC control systems, Relays, switches, contactors, circuit protection, UPS devices, etc., Ethernet configurations in high-interference environments
Interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
Diagnose and troubleshoot electrical issues both on-site and remotely
Coordinate with millwrights, electricians, plumbers, and other tradespeople
Work safely in industrial environments with heavy equipment and electrical hazards
Install, operate, and support system control software on Linux-based systems
Utilize command-line tools to monitor and troubleshoot system behavior
Support Java-based applications and related services
Work with SQL databases using query tools and management software
Analyze and interpret time-series system logs to diagnose system behavior
Support system updates, configuration changes, and software deployments
Deliver training to operators and other key personnel on system use and workflows
Assist customers in diagnosing software, electrical, and automation issues
Provide real-time technical support during active operations
Communicate effectively with users of varying technical backgrounds
Utilize bilingual skills or translation tools when necessary.
Assist in verifying batching accuracy and system performance
Monitor system operations including timing, sequencing, and communication
Prepare accurate and actionable reports of system observations