ON-SITE AUTOMATION TECHNICIAN - PLC/SCADA
About The Position
IMA Group is a global leader in the development and production of automatic machines for the processing and packaging of pharmaceutical, cosmetics, food, tea and coffee products. We are constantly oriented towards innovation, thanks to significant investments in R&D and a constant dialogue with customers, the territory and local suppliers. We promote an environmentally friendly attitude towards achieving sustainable development. Our history is characterized by a constant growth, realized also with the continuous investment on the development of people and their skills. We are over 7,000 employees, 59% in Italy and 41% in the rest of the world, present in more than 80 countries._______________________ IMA Life North America, a division of the IMA Group, specializes in aseptic processing and freeze-drying solutions for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.Part of IMA Life, it focuses on the pharmaceutical sector and delivers advanced technologies for filling, lyophilization, and isolation ensuring maximum sterility and product integrity for customers around the globe. The role will primarily support operations at a in Bloomington, Indiana area.JOB SUMMARYWe are seeking a Controls Specialist to provide localized technical support on IMA Life equipment.The role will involve direct collaboration with engineering teams in both Tonawanda and Italy, depending on the machine type: pharmaceutical business including freeze dryers.To ensure technical alignment and product familiarity, initial training may be conducted at IMA headquarters in Italy.
Requirements
- Associate degree with 3–5 years of experience, or 8+ years in a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) environment supporting pharmaceutical packaging or similar capital equipment.
- Proficiency with PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage priorities independently and within a team.
- Solid communication skills, both written and verbal, in a technical environment.
- Familiarity with electrical/software aspects of machine design.
- Willingness to travel up to 25–30% (domestic and international).
- Openness to training periods in Italy.
Nice To Haves
- PID control loops, servo controls, and variable frequency drives.
- Previous work experience with Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and iFix.
- Experience with PLC ladder logic, iFix, Visual Basic for Applications (VBA), SyTech XLReporter, and SCADA programming.
- Understanding of communication protocols such as Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), Ethernet/IP, and Process Field Bus (Profibus).
- Experience with relational databases such as MS SQL and MS Access.
- Proficiency in MS Office applications and Microsoft Windows 7/Server operating systems.
- Exposure to machine systems including hydraulics, pneumatics, motor controls, and aseptic production.
- Background in the pharmaceutical industry.
Responsibilities
- Providing on-site support for capital equipment and coordinating outsourced repairs and vendor services.
- Acting as a technical interface with vendors and customer service teams.
- Managing Customer Service project materials, structures, and parts via SAP / CRM systems.
- Offering support in the development and delivery of customer training and maintenance programs.
- Conducting line audits and assisting in minor rebuild/refurbishment activities.
- Supporting project upgrades, logistics coordination, and warranty processing.
- Delivering technical support for both European and U.S.-made equipment.
- Ensuring compliance with Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality (SHEQ) standards and requirements.
- Creating control system documentation and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) validation materials according to Good Automated Manufacturing Practice (GAMP) guidelines.
- Supporting field engineers, test technicians, and end users throughout the project lifecycle.
- Technical troubleshooting of multiple lines simultaneously.
Benefits
- We offer comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, and tuition assistance.
- As well as an annual bonus.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
