Field Resource Technician

Cates Control Systems•Plano, TX

15h•$55,000 - $65,000

About The Position

Cates Control Systems in Plano, TX is seeking a highly skilled Field Resource Technician to join our team. This advanced-level role is ideal for a seasoned professional with extensive experience in control panel wiring, PLC systems, and field installations. This position requires frequent travel to client sites across the United States, where you will play a critical role in installing, troubleshooting, and supporting automation systems in real-world production environments. Joining the Cates team is both challenging and rewarding. You will become an integral part of a talented and dynamic team in a fast-paced industry. If you are a self-driven expert who thrives both in the shop and on customer sites, we encourage you to apply.

Requirements

Strong electrical expertise in wiring Industrial Control Panels
Solid understanding and hands-on experience with wiring.
Proficient in reading and interpreting all electrical and mechanical drawings with minimal assistance
Deep understanding of control system components, including PLCs, VFDs, circuit breakers, relays, and terminal blocks
Ability to identify at least 95% of hardware components within a control system
Strong knowledge of OSHA Standards and Safety
Expert-level understanding of wire gauges, ampacities, and proper applications (Metric and UL standards)
Proficient in recognizing and installing wire labels and device tags
Skilled in panel layout, fabrication, and full enclosure builds
Ability to identify and troubleshoot wiring and design issues independently
Proficient with all fabrication shop (FAB) power tools and their proper use
Confident using hand tools and power tools with little to no supervision
Skilled in reading and using measuring devices (metric and standard tape measures)
Ability to differentiate materials (e.g., stainless steel vs. painted steel) and apply proper tooling techniques
Comfortable traveling frequently to customer locations across North America
Ability to work independently in client environments while maintaining professionalism and safety standards
Strong communication skills when interacting with customers and internal teams on-site
Flexibility to adapt to varying job site conditions and schedules
High School Diploma or GED required
Minimum 5+ years of experience wiring control panels in an industrial or manufacturing environment
Proven experience working with PLC systems and control panel layouts
Demonstrated experience in a lead or senior wiring technician role
Industry experience with electro-mechanical components required
Familiarity with UL 508A and NEC standards
Demonstrated leadership and project execution skills
Ability to work with minimal supervision and provide guidance to others
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
Experience using ERP/job tracking systems such as I-PReP and Epicor
Ability to stand, bend, and work in various positions for extended periods
Capability to perform hands-on work in both shop and field environments

Nice To Haves

Willingness to travel: 75% (Preferred)

Responsibilities

Wire, assemble, and fully fabricate control panels, including back panels and enclosures, using supplied drawings and schematics
Travel to client sites to support installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of PLC-based control systems
Collaborate closely with the Field Service Technician team on-site and remotely
Ensure all wiring is labeled correctly at both ends, free of defects, and compliant with company standards
Verify all terminations are secure and meet quality expectations
Interpret and review electrical and mechanical drawings; identify discrepancies and communicate corrections
Mark all drawing changes in red and obtain proper approval prior to implementation
Complete all required documentation, including time tracking and check sheets, using company systems (Epicor)
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment both in the shop and in the field
Identify potential project risks early and proactively communicate solutions to prevent delays or cost overruns
Provide leadership and mentorship to junior wiring technicians as needed