Senior Automation & Controls Maintenance Specialist

ATS•Bellwood, IL

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Join Us as a Senior Automation & Controls Maintenance Specialist Own the uptime of complex production systems by combining advanced troubleshooting, predictive diagnostics, and continuous improvement leadership. What You'll Do Resolve high-priority equipment issues via expert break-fix and preventive maintenance across mechanical, electrical, and control disciplines. Program, debug, and optimize control systems—dig into PLC logic, hardware interfaces, and configuration anomalies to eliminate recurring faults. Apply predictive technologies and interpret findings to guide proactive maintenance: infrared thermography, ultrasonic testing, power quality analysis, laser interferometry, ball bar, and vibration analysis. Drive CI initiatives using proven tools and methodologies; quantify results and cost savings. Source parts and propose engineered alternatives that enhance system reliability and reduce lifecycle cost. Perform to industry standards; uphold 5S and rigorous housekeeping. Operate machining equipment (lathe, drill press, grinder) and perform welding as needed to fabricate or restore components. Research emerging methods and technologies; update documentation and standard work for adoption across sites. Contribute to cost analyses for new equipment and repair/rebuild options; provide technical content for sales quotations and T&M assignments. Update CMMS records with accurate histories; analyze trends to prevent recurrence. Mentor junior technicians and step into project management duties when assigned. Advance your skills through on-the-job training and self-directed study. Follow all safety policies and technical guidelines; maintain strong situational awareness.

Requirements

HS diploma/GED required.
Either: associate degree (technical) with 7+ years' relevant, industry-specific experience; or 10+ years of industry experience.
Mastery of predictive maintenance techniques (e.g., vibration analysis, laser interferometer), precision alignments, and process equipment maintenance.
Systems thinker across electrical, mechanical, fluid power, and controls—capable of diagnosing, evaluating options, and executing robust repairs.
Proficient with hand and specialty tools; comfortable with advanced PLC/HMI networks and configurations.

Nice To Haves

Six Sigma experience preferred; ability to travel on occasion.

Responsibilities

Resolve high-priority equipment issues via expert break-fix and preventive maintenance across mechanical, electrical, and control disciplines.
Program, debug, and optimize control systems—dig into PLC logic, hardware interfaces, and configuration anomalies to eliminate recurring faults.
Apply predictive technologies and interpret findings to guide proactive maintenance: infrared thermography, ultrasonic testing, power quality analysis, laser interferometry, ball bar, and vibration analysis.
Drive CI initiatives using proven tools and methodologies; quantify results and cost savings.
Source parts and propose engineered alternatives that enhance system reliability and reduce lifecycle cost.
Perform to industry standards; uphold 5S and rigorous housekeeping.
Operate machining equipment (lathe, drill press, grinder) and perform welding as needed to fabricate or restore components.
Research emerging methods and technologies; update documentation and standard work for adoption across sites.
Contribute to cost analyses for new equipment and repair/rebuild options; provide technical content for sales quotations and T&M assignments.
Update CMMS records with accurate histories; analyze trends to prevent recurrence.
Mentor junior technicians and step into project management duties when assigned.
Advance your skills through on-the-job training and self-directed study.
Follow all safety policies and technical guidelines; maintain strong situational awareness.