Automation and Controls Specialist in Phoenix AZ

Reporting to the Maintenance Systems Manager, the Automation and Controls Specialist is the maintenance systems department expert in automation systems and controls, providing technical expertise with new project installations and representing the Corporate Engineering group on issues of automation and control functionality. This role assists with plant capital projects, including, but not limited to, installation of new equipment, cost savings projects, and line efficiency improvement projects.

Essential Duties:

1. Plans, develops, implements, and evaluates programs and projects to meet established cost parameters and timelines.
2. Installs and assists with oversight of installation or maintenance of equipment on the production floor.
3. Evaluates all control systems and optimizes their function for peak efficiency.
4. Analyzes and recommends equipment modifications to improve the production process.
5. Maintains electrical and control functions in the facility.
6. Supports Maintenance Systems departments in their respective areas in matters pertaining to automation and control application/repair/optimization.
7. Troubleshoots control problems.
8. Troubleshoots mechanical issues as needed.
9. Assures compliance to control standards set forth by Corporate Engineering.
10. Stays current with new technology and investigates applications to improve manufacturing and support system performance.
11. Researches and implements automation solutions with cost savings and increased efficiencies.
12. Designs and programs new equipment to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of operations.
13. Builds electrical panels using schematics, writes the PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programs, and tests them.
14. Interprets complex diagrams and schematics associated with manufacturing and support systems.
15. Interacts effectively with Electricians, Mechanics, Safety, Outside Vendors, and other stakeholders.
16. Helps develop plans for the advancement of automation and control applications.
17. Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

1. Technical College Certificate in electronics and controls, or related field. At least five years applicable work/industry experience to include sophisticated controls systems and logic programming, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Food industry experience is preferred.
2. Advanced understanding of machine automation and control logic.
3. Working knowledge of, and ability to program various PLC equipment.
4. Communicates effectively in both oral and written forms to a variety of stakeholders.
5. Ability to troubleshoot mechanical issues and adjust them quickly.
6. Must be able to follow precise directions and hold contractors accountable to the scope of the work they are hired to perform.
7. Ability to read, write and speak English.