PLC Controls Technician

5 days ago

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PLC Controls Technician Suffolk, Virginia
Job Ref: 41258

LARGE MANUFACTURING COMPANY IN SUFFOLK VA IS LOOKING FOR A PLC CONTROLS TECH. LOOKING FOR SOMEONE SHARP ELECTRICALLY AND MECHANICALLY. MUST COME OUT OF A FAST PACED MANUFACTURING ENVIRONMENT.

NEED TO HAVE A STRONG UNDERSTANDING VFDS, PLCS, 480V, MUST BE ABLE TO PROGRAM PLCS

3RD SHIFT AVAILABLE

HOURLY RATE: $40.73

Position Summary

The PLC Technician is responsible for designing, programming, repairing, and maintaining programmable logic controller (PLC) systems within the facility. This role ensures proper functionality of automated equipment, performs preventative maintenance per manufacturer specifications, and supports installation and troubleshooting of advanced production and manufacturing equipment. The PLC Technician plays a critical role in diagnosing malfunctions, executing complex repairs, and driving continuous improvements in equipment performance, safety, and efficiency.

Essential Job Functions

Adhere to all health and safety policies, GMPs, and PPE requirements.
Ensure compliance with food quality and safety standards (including Safe Quality Food requirements).
Lead and participate in troubleshooting during equipment failures; collaborate with production to analyze, resolve, and prevent issues.
Maintain, test, and upgrade production, packaging, and processing equipment.
Install, test, and commission new manufacturing equipment.
Diagnose and repair PLC and automation issues, including faulty wiring and components.
Calibrate and test equipment to ensure accuracy and compliance with specifications.
Modify and update existing PLC programs to optimize performance, enhance safety, and meet process requirements.
Maintain accurate documentation of maintenance activities, repairs, programming changes, and upgrades.
Train maintenance staff and operators on basic PLC troubleshooting and functions.
Perform preventative maintenance and planned mechanical repairs as required.
Actively participate in continuous improvement initiatives.
Foster positive, respectful relationships with supervisors, technicians, and operators.
Identify and propose process improvements to enhance reliability, safety, and cost efficiency.

Required Skills & Technical Knowledge

Proficiency with RS Logix 5000, RS Logix 500, and RS Logix 5 for troubleshooting.
Ability to connect to ControlLogix, CompactLogix, SLC500, or PLC5 via Ethernet I/P, DH+, or RS232, including downloading PLC programs.
Strong ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, and line layout drawings.
Skilled in using a multimeter and safely working in control panels up to 480VAC.
Experience configuring/replacing AB PowerFlex (40, 400, 525) and Yaskawa (V1000, P1000) VFDs.
Experience with PanelView and PanelView Plus devices; ability to download applications using PanelBuilder 32 or RS View Studio Machine Edition.
Aptitude for continuous learning and technical skill development.

Education and Experience

Minimum of 3 years’ experience in industrial manufacturing maintenance.
Rockwell Maintainer or equivalent certification preferred; must be obtained within the first 24 months if not already held.
Experience with Allen Bradley PLCs required.
Strong electrical/electronic troubleshooting and repair skills required.
Candidates must pass a Maintenance Skills Assessment to be considered.

Working Conditions

Work Schedule: Weekdays, weekends, afternoons, evenings, overnight, and holidays may be required. Overtime as needed.
Environment: Fast-paced production plant with numerous moving parts. Noise levels require hearing protection; temperatures may be very hot or cold. Structured environment with clear production targets and schedules.

Core Competencies

Decisive, proactive, and self-motivated.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Analytical with the ability to identify trends and provide data-driven insights.
Adaptable to shifting priorities and business demands.
Able to work independently with minimal supervision.
Influential and persuasive, with the ability to lead and collaborate at all levels of the business.

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