A manufacturing facility in Frederick, MD, is seeking an Automation Engineering Technician to support and enhance automation processes within a high-speed production environment. The ideal candidate will be responsible for troubleshooting, optimizing, and maintaining automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, instrumentation, and drives. This role requires a hands-on problem solver with a strong understanding of electrical systems, controls, and process automation.
Key Responsibilities
To perform this role successfully, candidates must demonstrate proficiency in the following areas. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.
Troubleshoot and optimize PLC and HMI programs, instrumentation, and variable frequency drives (VFDs) to improve system performance.
Analyze production data to identify opportunities for efficiency gains and process improvements in a multi-line, high-speed manufacturing environment.
Assess and enhance automation systems, identifying gaps and implementing improvements in collaboration with the Plant Systems team.
Develop and maintain engineering documentation, including electrical schematics, CAD drawings, process flow diagrams, manuals, and spare parts lists.
Perform electrical and controls layouts, updating and creating electrical drawings using AutoCAD Electrical or similar software.
Work collaboratively with Engineering, Operations, and Maintenance teams to address process challenges and ensure seamless system integration.
Ensure compliance with operational standards by evaluating machine performance and control systems.
Implement system upgrades to improve manufacturing reliability and automation, particularly in abrasive material processing environments.
Adapt quickly in a fast-paced manufacturing setting, implementing solutions efficiently without compromising quality or safety.
Qualifications
Required:
10+ years of professional experience in automation OR
5+ years of experience with an Associate's degree in a relevant field OR
2+ years of experience with a Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related discipline
Hands-on experience with PLCs (Siemens preferred), HMIs (Wonderware preferred), and servo & variable frequency drives (VFDs)
Proficiency in reading, updating, and creating electrical schematics using AutoCAD Electrical
Ability to identify and implement high-impact automation and reliability improvements in production processes
Preferred (not required, but beneficial):
Experience with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning in manufacturing
Familiarity with process control and PID tuning
HMI programming experience (Wonderware preferred)
Background in roofing manufacturing or web process handling
Experience with Machine Vision and Vision Inspection Systems
Knowledge of Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT) devices
Prior experience as a Field Service Technician
Working knowledge of NEC standards and Electrical Distribution #IND1