Maintenance PLC Technician

FAREVA•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 maintains steady, compliant operation of high-tech automated equipment and drives continual improvement through electrical and PLC technology. The work includes electronics, electrical control systems, server and process control, hydraulics and pneumatics, basic mechanical skills, and computer literacy. This is a first-shift position in 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 product production, and helps ensure projects and production schedules are completed on time. The role supports automation project design and implementation, equipment installation and commissioning, troubleshooting, documentation, safety, efficiency, and compliance with applicable corporate, state, and federal requirements. The technician works with production, quality, materials, engineering, training, and other support teams. Fareva is a contract manufacturer of pharmaceutical and personal care products. Its Richmond facility is climate controlled, spans more than 745,000 square feet, and employs 600 full-time employees.

Requirements

Associate degree or trade school certification focused on controls or electronics.
Background in both electrical and mechanical trades.
At least 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 with Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or ELAU.
Understanding of industrial network structures, including Ethernet IP and other fieldbus networks.
Electrical troubleshooting experience, including checking motors and 480-volt systems.
Strong problem-solving, diagnostic, troubleshooting, decision-making, and analytical skills.
Strong computer skills for analyzing, organizing, and presenting 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 professional attitude.
Willingness to learn new technologies and skills as needed.
Use of industry-safe practices.
Ability to communicate effectively up and down the organizational chain.
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 of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree in science or engineering.
Journeyman’s card or electrical certification.
Background in consumer goods, cosmetic, or pharmaceutical manufacturing and packaging.

Responsibilities

Maintain steady and compliant operation of automated equipment and drive continual improvement through electrical and PLC technology.
Manage maintenance activities associated with current and new business and product production under the direction of the Area Maintenance Manager.
Help ensure timely completion of projects and production schedules to maintain sufficient finished-goods supply to meet customer demand.
Assist with project scope, specifications, design, and automation solutions.
Modify PLC programs and human-machine interfaces using Allen-Bradley or Siemens software.
Interpret blueprints and electrical drawings and make modifications when necessary.
Develop and configure networks, including I/O Link, Ethernet IP, and Modbus.
Program VFD inverters and servo drives for motor controls.
Program or troubleshoot sensors, vision systems, and encoders.
Program or 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 compliance with corporate guidelines, cGMPs, and state and federal requirements, including FDA, OSHA, and EPA requirements, for product quality and safety.
Coordinate daily with support departments, including quality assurance, human resources, materials management, technical services, engineering, training, and site management in production and safety.