Automation Controls Specialist in McMinnville, Oregon - #73670 | VanderHouwen

Description

Job Id: 73670

Automation Controls Specialist
Our client is seeking an experienced Automation Controls Specialist to support and enhance automated manufacturing operations. The ideal candidate brings strong technical expertise in industrial controls, PLC programming, and equipment troubleshooting, along with a proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement. This individual will play an important role in improving equipment reliability, minimizing downtime, and partnering with cross-functional teams to maintain safe and efficient production operations.

This role is on-site in McMinnville, Oregon.

Automation Controls Specialist Responsibilities

• Program, maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC-based systems, HMI/SCADA platforms, and automated manufacturing equipment.
• Diagnose complex electrical, mechanical, instrumentation, and controls issues to minimize equipment downtime and maintain production efficiency.
• Analyze equipment performance and production data to identify root causes, improve system reliability, and implement corrective actions.
• Supprt equipment installations, startups, commissioning, and capital improvement projects, including controls programming, configuration, and testing.
• Lead automation upgrades and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance equipment performance, safety, and operational efficiency.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, electrical schematics, control system configurations, and software backups.
• Partner with Engineering, Maintenance, Operations, and Quality teams to resolve technical challenges and improve manufacturing processes.
• Provide technical guidance and training to maintenance personnel, electricians, and operators on automated equipment and control systems.
• Ensure automation systems and maintenance activities meet applicable safety, quality, regulatory, and cybersecurity requirements.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records, document system modifications, and track troubleshooting activities through established maintenance systems.
• Follow established safety and quality procedures, including electrical safety, lockout/tagout, and applicable manufacturing practices.

Automation Controls Specialist Qualifications

• 5–10 years of experience supporting industrial automation, PLC programming, and automated manufacturing equipment.
• Advanced knowledge of PLC programming and troubleshooting, preferably with Allen-Bradley/Rockwell, Siemens, or comparable platforms.
• Hands-on experience with HMI/SCADA systems, variable frequency drives, servo controls, instrumentation, and industrial communication networks.
• Strong troubleshooting skills with the ability to resolve complex issues involving integrated electrical, mechanical, software, and automation systems.
• Ability to interpret electrical schematics, control drawings, P&IDs, technical manuals, and equipment documentation.
• Demonstrated experience with root cause analysis, equipment reliability improvements, and manufacturing process optimization.
• Technical education, apprenticeship, certification, or training in industrial automation, electrical systems, mechatronics, instrumentation, or a related discipline preferred; equivalent practical experience will also be considered.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across technical and operational teams.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to manage multiple priorities and support improvement projects.
• Commitment to workplace safety, quality standards, and maintaining accurate technical and maintenance documentation.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment, including standing and walking for extended periods, accessing equipment in elevated or confined areas when necessary, and lifting up to 50 pounds.

Salary: $90K-$110K/year. (DOE)

Benefits
Benefits are available to eligible full-time employees and include coverage for medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long term disability, and matching 401k.

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