Automation Controls Technician

Date: Jun 2, 2025

Location:

Washington, IN, US, 47501

Req ID: 76496

Job Function: Maintenance

Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.

Summary

The Automation Controls Technician is responsible for troubleshooting and performing preventative maintenance on various building systems and production equipment. This position is responsible for installing, maintaining, repairing, and modifying controls and automation systems. This is a day shift position, 7:30 am-530pm.

Principal and Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Proposing, specifying, designing, programming, and implementing electrical controls and automation systems for a manufacturing facility.
Review technical specifications and schematics for new equipment to ensure that sound engineering practices are followed and that Machine Build Standards, NEC, and OSHA requirements are met.
Review and modify existing equipment as required to meet safety and ergonomic requirements
Perform system evaluations, electrical design and automation system programming support for all plant manufacturing operations.
Perform root-cause analysis, troubleshoot, repair, and maintain mechanical and electrical equipment such as: blending, conveying, filling, packaging, coding/printing compressed air, vacuum, hydraulic and refrigeration systems.
Upgrading of existing equipment and integration of existing equipment with new automation. Alterations to existing manuals and wiring diagrams, implementation of training packages for equipment altered.
Troubleshoot electrical wiring, relay logic, control and safety circuits
Troubleshoot electronic boards, PLC’s, touch screens, VFD’s, HMI displays, contactors and motors.
Troubleshoot mechanical systems related to production and plant support equipment ranging from single phase to three phase equipment along with voltages ranging from 5VDC – 480 VAC.
Interpret electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, blueprints and layouts.

Minimum Education

Education and/or a combination of education and experience equivalent to an Associate’s Degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, or related discipline and 1-3 years of automation maintenance and/or automation projects in an industrial environment, preferably in a food manufacturing environment.

Experience Requirements

Must have good understanding of PLC systems and ability to create PLC program code and program documentation. Should have good practical experience in PLC systems for process or material handling work.
Experience with “Allen-Bradley Controllogix”, PLC programming experience with Rockwell Software “RSLogix 5000” software.
HMI programming experience.
Experience with Allen-Bradley variable frequency AC drives and reduced voltage starters preferred.
Experience specifying, installing and troubleshooting thermocouples, pressure transducers, proximity sensors, etc.
Proficient troubleshooting including, but not limited to electrical/electronic circuits.
Proficiency at using tools including, but not limited to electronic testing equipment.
Capability of using a Windows based PC and Microsoft Office applications.
Must have excellent communication skills and the ability to relate well to a wide range of constituents.

Experience Preferred

Previous experience in a food manufacturing environment preferred.

Environmental Factors and Physical Requirements

In stationary positions or moving for 12 hours on a wet, moist, dry and greasy floor which includes metal or plastic grating surfaces with up to four (4) hours in a single interval.
Ability to climb stairs, upon equipment, catwalks and work from various ladders.
Exposure to and work in temperatures of <0 to >110 degrees Fahrenheit with ambient humidity, noise exposure of >110 db, and light intensity range of <50 to >100 foot candles.
Bending, twisting, lifting, reaching, sitting, and grasping varies in repetitions, distance, degrees, angle, weight, height longest interval of time, objects grasped, and body positions depends upon the maintenance task being performed.
Must be able to lift and control weights up to 100 pounds.
Must be able to bend down and to maintain a kneeling position.
Must be able to work outside in all types of weather conditions.
Exposure to chlorinated water <50ppm, ammonia vapors >5ppm, dry ice, caustic detergents, lubricating oils, hydraulic oils, salt and other chemicals found in a poultry processing operation.
Must wear and/or use protective and safety equipment required for the job.

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.