Automation Controls Technician

Actus Nutrition•Wautoma, WI

About The Position

At Actus Nutrition , our focus is to create high quality ingredients designed to optimize health and nutrition. We are passionate and dedicated people. Each day, we collectively explore new, innovative ways to enhance product performance and value through our broad human and animal nutrition portfolios. The human nutrition division focuses on industry leading whey and milk protein isolates, concentrates, and hydrolysates. The animal nutrition division is a leading supplier of functional fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Both divisions are backed by the speed, execution and passion it takes to exceed the expectation of our customers. We offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental, vision and life insurance as well as a healthy 401(k) company match program. The Automation Controls Technician is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing automation and control systems within a dairy manufacturing plant. This role is part of the Maintenance Team and provides support to the Controls Team as needed to ensure optimal equipment performance, minimize downtime, and maintain compliance with safety and quality standards.

Requirements

Associate's degree or equivalent in electrical engineering, automation, mechatronics, or related field.
2+ years of experience in industrial automation or controls maintenance, preferably in food or dairy manufacturing.
Strong knowledge of PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.), HMIs, VFDs, and industrial networks.
Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and technical documentation.
Proficient in troubleshooting electrical and control systems.
Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

Plant Equipment Maintenance Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on all plant equipment, including mechanical, electrical, and automation systems.
Troubleshoot and repair pumps, valves, motors, conveyors, and other production machinery to ensure continuous operation.
Automation System Maintenance Maintain and repair PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, sensors, and other control devices to ensure reliable operation.
Inspect wiring, connections, and components for wear or damage and replace as needed.
Troubleshooting & Repairs Diagnose electrical, mechanical, and control system issues using schematics, diagnostic tools, and software.
Respond promptly to equipment failures to minimize downtime and maintain production schedules.
Support for Controls Team Assist with programming and configuration of PLCs and HMIs during upgrades or new installations.
Provide backup support for controls engineers during major projects or troubleshooting escalations.
System Optimization Identify opportunities to improve automation performance and reduce energy consumption.
Recommend and implement enhancements to control systems for efficiency and reliability.
Documentation & Reporting Maintain accurate logs of maintenance activities, system changes, and troubleshooting steps.
Update wiring diagrams, control schematics, and software documentation as changes occur.
Compliance & Safety Ensure all work complies with electrical codes, plant safety standards, and food safety regulations.
Participate in safety audits and corrective actions related to automation systems.
Collaboration & Training Work closely with production, quality, and engineering teams to resolve issues and support continuous improvement.
Provide training and guidance to maintenance team members on basic automation troubleshooting.