Automation / Controls Technician

This position requires access to export-controlled information. Therefore, only U.S. persons (U.S. citizens, and lawful permanent residents) will be considered.

At Cox Manufacturing, we combine precision machining excellence with a mission to serve others. Our vision is to deliver top-tier small part production services, support a high quality of life for our employees, and be a positive influence for Christ, guided by Colossians 1:10. We’re not perfect, but we’re committed to walking with purpose and integrity.

Our core values: Teamwork, Continuous Improvement, Perseverance, and Excellence drive everything we do. If you’re looking for meaningful work in a company that values purpose, we invite you to join our team.

We are seeking a skilled Automation/Controls Technician to support, maintain, and enhance automation systems within our machining manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for troubleshooting, optimizing, and improving PLC, HMI, CNC control systems, and Industry 4.0 technologies. The ideal candidate is a hands-on problem solver with strong electrical and automation experience who thrives in a fast-paced, highprecision production environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and maintain PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programs for CNC machinery and the Industry 4.0 system.
• Integrate and troubleshoot Human-Machine Interface (HMI) systems to improve operator usability and efficiency.
• Perform electrical control system troubleshooting, diagnostics, and repairs to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including maintenance, production, and IT to enhance system performance.
• Maintain and update electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and documentation.
• Assist in the installation and commissioning of new automation equipment.
• Lead or support continuous improvement initiatives focused on automation and controls.
• Train maintenance and production teams on PLC/HMI systems for troubleshooting and basic operation.
• Assist engineering and plant staff with the specification, installation, and modification of automated systems. Maintain awareness and communicate how changes to automation and controls affect the CNC machinery and/ or process.
• Communicate status of projects or impediments, manage expectations and articulate timelines, quickly resolve issues, and ensure consistent functionality of automation systems and controls.
• Provide ongoing troubleshooting and maintenance support for automated systems and work directly with machine operators and production supervisors to resolve mechanical issues that arise during production.
• Identify, implement, and document maintenance and reliability best practices for automation systems and controls within Cox Manufacturing Company, Inc.

Required Qualifications:

• 5 years of experience in electrical and industrial automation is required (manufacturing preferred).
• Experience working with PLCs, industrial electricity, automation control, and variable frequency/servo drive systems.
• Familiarity with plant specific automation products such as Allen-Bradley (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, FactoryTalk View, Studio 5000) and/ or Siemens (Step 5/7, WinCC, TIA Portal) PLCs, HMIs, drives, and software.
• Basic knowledge of FANUC CNC controls and hardware.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to explain automation concepts to technicians, operators, and leads.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently or within a team.
• Flexible work schedule to support production needs.
• Working with electrical systems up to 480 VAC, 3 phase.
• High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with Studio 5000, TIA Portal, or similar PLC programming environments.
• Familiarity with SCADA systems, IIoT technologies, or Industry 4.0 platforms.
• Ability to read and update ladder logic, function block, and structured text programs.
• Knowledge of industrial networking (EtherNet/IP, Profinet, etc.)
• Prior machining or high-precision manufacturing environment experience.

Compensation: We ensure regularly assess market data to establish salary ranges. The salary for this role is based on experience and starts at $28/hour.

Benets: Our employees enjoy top tier benets designed to support their physical, nancial, and emotional wellbeing. These benets include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, a 401(k) plan, life insurance, paid time off with holidays, and various wellness programs. Additionally, we offer career path planning and continuing education to help employees achieve their professional goals.

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