Junior Controls Technician (Athol)

Idaho Forest Group•Athol, ID

24d

About The Position

The Junior Controls Technician supports the maintenance and troubleshooting of material handling control systems in a lumber manufacturing environment. This entry-level role provides hands-on experience with industrial control systems while working under the guidance of experienced controls and electrical technicians. Duties may vary by location.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in Electronics Technology, Electrical Technology, Mechatronics, or a related field, or equivalent hands-on or technical training.
Entry-level knowledge of industrial electrical and control systems.
Ability to read and interpret basic electrical drawings and schematics.
Basic understanding of PLCs, HMIs, motor controls, VFDs, and robotics.
Strong willingness to learn and follow instructions.
Good problem-solving, organizational, and time-management skills.
Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Basic computer skills and comfort working with industrial software systems.
Willingness to travel up to 30%.
Ability to pass a post-offer pre-employment physical, hair follicle drug test, and background check.

Nice To Haves

Enrollment in or completion of a technical apprenticeship or electrical training program.
Internship, co-op, or hands-on experience in an industrial or manufacturing environment.
Exposure to PLC programming software, such as Rockwell/Allen-Bradley.
Familiarity with industrial networking concepts.
Interest or basic exposure to robotic or automated systems.

Responsibilities

Assist senior controls and electrical technicians in maintaining material handling control systems, including PLCs, HMIs, motor controls, VFDs, industrial networks, and robotics.
Perform basic troubleshooting of control system issues and escalate complex problems to senior team members.
Support routine inspections, testing, and preventive maintenance of electrical and control systems.
Assist with software updates, patches, and minor configuration changes under supervision.
Help collect and review system data and reports to support performance improvements.
Work with internal OT/network support and OEM vendors as directed.
Provide basic technical support for PLC and HMI devices.
Follow established safety procedures and support compliance with regulatory and audit requirements.
Maintain accurate documentation of work performed.
Participate in training and development opportunities to build technical knowledge.
Consistently work at acceptable production and performance levels.