Maintenance PLC Technician

FAREVA RICHMOND INC•Richmond, VA

8d•$38 - $42•Onsite

About The Position

Fareva is seeking an experienced Manufacturing PLC Technician to join its Maintenance team in Richmond, Virginia. The technician will maintain the steady, compliant operation of automated equipment and drive continual improvement using electrical and PLC technology. The work encompasses electronics, electrical control systems, server and process control, hydraulics and pneumatics, basic mechanical skills, and computer literacy. This is a first-shift position at a three-shift operation; candidates must be flexible to cover second or third shift as needed. With direction from the Area Maintenance Manager, the technician manages activities associated with current and new business and production, helping ensure timely project completion and adherence to production schedules. The role supports high-speed mixing and packaging equipment in a manufacturing environment and works with production and cross-functional support teams to meet operational, product-quality, and safety requirements.

Requirements

Associate degree or trade school certification focused on controls or electronics.
Background in both electrical and mechanical trades.
A minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in a production or manufacturing environment.
Background or education supporting a strong focus on project implementation, process and equipment improvement, and operational effectiveness.
PLC/HMI programming skills, such as Allen Bradley, Siemens, or ELAU.
Understanding of industrial network structures, including Ethernet IP and other fieldbus networks.
Electrical troubleshooting experience, including checking motors and working with 480-volt systems.
Strong problem-solving, diagnostic, troubleshooting, decision-making, and analytical skills.
Strong computer skills to analyze, organize, and present data, including Microsoft Office.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.
Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
Self-motivated, reliable, and professionally positive.
Willingness to learn new technologies and skills as needed.
Knowledge of industry-safe practices.
Journeyman's card or electrical certification.
High degree of technical expertise with high-speed, diverse mixing and packaging equipment.
Results-oriented approach and familiarity with lean manufacturing techniques.
Ability to work with manufacturing teams to help achieve production goals.
Familiarity with manufacturing in an FDA- or ISO-controlled environment.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Science or Engineering.
Background in consumer goods, cosmetic, or pharmaceutical manufacturing and packaging.

Responsibilities

Assist with the scope, specifications, and design of projects and automation solutions.
Modify PLC programs and Human Machine Interfaces using Allen Bradley, Siemens, or other relevant PLC/HMI software.
Interpret blueprints and electrical drawings and make modifications when necessary.
Develop and configure networks, including I/O link, Ethernet IP, Modbus, and other fieldbus networks.
Program VFD inverters and servo drives for motor controls.
Program and troubleshoot sensors, vision systems, and encoders.
Program and troubleshoot safety controllers to ensure safe interaction between operators, site staff, and machinery.
Monitor and report work status and progress.
Write technical documentation, including manuals for internal use.
Test automated systems for efficiency, safety, and reliability.
Participate in installation, commissioning, configuration, and support of process automation systems.
Modify equipment operation, parts, and techniques to improve efficiency.
Follow LOTO procedures and identify situational hazards.
Ensure manufacturing and packaging operations comply with corporate guidelines, cGMPs, and applicable state and federal requirements, including FDA, OSHA, and EPA requirements.
Interface with quality assurance, human resources, materials management, technical services, engineering, training, and site management in production and safety.