Automation Technician

Nesco Resource is searching for an experienced INJECTION MOLDING AUTOMATION TECHNICIAN to work with a growing manufacturer in St. Clair County, MI. This is a 1st shift DIRECT HIRE opportunity.

Position Title Automation Technician PLC Programming and Troubleshooting RequiredPurpose The Automation Technician will take a hands-on approach in maintaining, troubleshooting, programming, and providing manufacturing support for automation systems, including robotics, vision systems, assembly cells, and related equipment. Job Summary The Automation Technician ensures efficient production floor operations by maintaining and troubleshooting automation systems. This role involves tracking downtime, driving continuous improvement, performing equipment repairs and installations, and developing EOAT and new automated processes. Job ResponsibilitiesAutomation Oversight: Oversee all automation, process development, and optimization, providing support and guidance as required to the automation and assembly equipment maintenance teams.
Installation & Maintenance: Install, maintain, and repair automation systems, including robotics, PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), sensors, and other related equipment used in the injection molding process.
Programming: Demonstrate knowledge of programming/teaching robots, including some knowledge of PLCs, to optimize automation systems.
Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve electrical, mechanical, and software issues in automated systems to minimize downtime and ensure smooth production. Work with vision systems, adjusting as necessary.
Preventative Maintenance & Repairs: Interact with other Automation Technicians and manufacturing groups to accomplish PM (Preventative Maintenance), changeovers, minor repairs, and upkeep to keep systems running. Assist in basic mechanical troubleshooting and repair.
Communication: Communicate with team members regarding equipment condition, equipment needs, and work completed during the shift. Report any issues to the Automation Supervisor and production leads.
Continuous Improvement: Identify roadblocks and recommend appropriate resolutions. Continually look for new opportunities to improve current equipment, processes, and efficiencies. Assist with determining and implementing continuous improvement opportunities, utilizing automation to improve productivity and labor efficiencies.
Root Cause Analysis: Assist in root cause analysis when customer complaints arise and help implement corrective actions such as poka-yoke, vision systems, and other automated measures.
Asset Management: Assist with managing automation asset inventory, spare parts management, program change logs, program backup database, and safety precautions as they pertain to automation.
Compliance & Safety: Ensure compliance with IATF-16949 systems and procedures. Perform housekeeping checks to ensure compliance with 5S. Perform all jobs in a safe manner, strictly abiding by company health and safety regulations.
Other Duties: Perform other duties as required to support the production and engineering teams.

QualificationsEducation: Associate degree or technical certification in Automation, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field. A bachelor's degree is a plus.

Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in automation within a plastics injection molding environment.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Allen Bradley, Siemens).
• Experience with robotics (e.g., ABB, Fanuc, KUKA).
• Hands-on experience with Vision systems (Keyence) is an asset.
• Strong understanding of electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems.
• Experience in the Automotive and Plastic Injection Molding industry is an asset.
• Knowledge of engineering software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and standard MS Office software like Excel, Word, and Outlook.

Communication:

• Able to convey technical information to members of management, co-workers, clients, suppliers, and outside organizations.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to multitask as required.
• Can-do attitude with a pleasant demeanor when interacting with individuals inside and outside the company, even in heated situations.

Problem-Solving:

• Self-motivated individual with strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to think and execute strategically and is results oriented.
• Ability to handle moderate-to-high stress due to the pressure of production deadlines, with the capacity to handle high mental effort.

Additional Skills:

• Crane, forklift, and scissor lift experience.
• Ability to use a milling machine, lathe, and drill press is an asset.
• Ability to work overtime and be flexible with shifts when required.

Reporting Hierarchy Reports to:

• Plant Manager

Quality Systems Requirements

• Health & Safety Policy / Disciplinary Policy / Violence & Harassment Policy
• Quality Policy
• Quality Procedures and Work Instructions
• Customer Specific requirements
• IATF-16949 systems and procedures

Nesco Resource offers a comprehensive benefits package for our associates, which includes a MEC (Minimum Essential Coverage) plan that encompasses Medical, Vision, Dental, 401K, and EAP (Employee Assistance Program) services.

Nesco Resource provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.