R&D Automation Technician

Job Summary

The R&D Automation Technician will work with Operations to determine business needs and execute on projects to develop appropriate equipment solutions. Projects will be ran utilizing mechanical fabrication skills, controls and PLC knowledge, and project management skills. The areas of responsibility will cover upgrading aging equipment with modern mechanical and electrical solutions, ensuring reliability of currently utilized equipment, and specifying criteria for new equipment acquisitions.   

Essential Job Functions *

• Manages project tasks and timelines
• Ensures all equipment complies with OSHA/NEC safety requirements and Hillman best practices to maintain a safe working environment
• Fabrication and assembly of mechanical components
• Integrates electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and controls components
• Assures alignment of activities with Operational goals
• Programs PLC and HMI controls to create equipment with the ideal process in mind
• Performs electrical and mechanical calibrations and alignments
• Creates documentation and delivers training to Maintenance technicians and Operations personnel 
• Collaborates with IT to ensure all solutions comply with data control best practices
• Supports the Preventative Maintenance and Troubleshooting Training programs
• Supports reliability efforts of recurring and major downtime events
• Maintains a clean and organized work environment
• Follows safety policies and procedures; reports unsafe conditions to Supervisor.
• Uses wrenches, screwdrivers, hand tools, electrical testing devices and power tools to perform work

* This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Employees are expected and encouraged to participate in safety and health program activities including immediately reporting hazards, immediately reporting unsafe work practices and incidents to supervisors, wearing required personal protective equipment, and participating in and supporting safety committee activities.

Education & Experience

• Technical Vocational degree, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 2-3 years of Electro-Mechanical Automation System Installation & Troubleshooting Experience
• An operational knowledge of automated industrial machinery which includes; motors, servos, pumps, drives, relays, 3 phase power, communication devices, industrial / electronic controls and power transmission systems
• A good understanding of hydraulic and pneumatic systems
• Basic sheet metal and machining fabrication skills
• Strong PLC programming and troubleshooting ability with practical, mechanical & electrical aptitude
• Must be able to read and interpret both electrical and mechanical drawings
• Must be fully computer literate with Microsoft environment
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills

Competencies – Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Is consistently at work and on time
• Can effectively work in a team setting as well as independently motivated
• Flexible in adapting to rapidly changing needs as determined by company priorities
• Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Maintains a clean and organized work environment
• Meets productivity standards; Completes work in timely manner; Strives to increase productivity
• Observes all safety procedures and policies; Reports potentially unsafe conditions to supervisor; Uses equipment and materials properly

Operational Equipment

• N/A