Job Summary
The Automation Technician supports plant operations by maintaining, troubleshooting, testing, and repairing automated manufacturing systems and related electrical, electronic, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic equipment. This position ensures production systems operate safely, efficiently, and reliably by diagnosing malfunctions, performing preventive maintenance, and supporting continuous improvement efforts.
Essential Job Functions
- Troubleshoot, diagnose, test, and repair automated production equipment, including PLCs, HMIs, drives, power supplies, sensors, gauges, and testing devices.
- Maintain and repair mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, and electronic systems supporting automated manufacturing equipment.
- Perform preventive maintenance to reduce equipment downtime and extend the life of machinery and systems.
- Install, start up, shut down, and adjust automation and electrical systems in accordance with company procedures and OSHA requirements.
- Assist with commissioning, testing, installation, and implementation of new or upgraded automation systems and equipment.
- Read and interpret electrical schematics, blueprints, manuals, and technical documents to identify and resolve equipment issues.
- Apply electrical, electronic, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic principles to identify root causes of equipment failures and implement corrective actions.
- Follow all standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, safety procedures, and supervisor direction.
- Advise operators and maintenance personnel on proper operation and safe handling of automated systems.
- Communicate equipment issues, hazards, repairs, and maintenance needs to supervisors and team members.
- Assist with training maintenance and technical personnel on troubleshooting, operation, and repair techniques.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support production and operational needs.
Physical Requirements
- Stand and walk for extended periods of time.
- Frequently bend, stoop, reach, climb, and work in awkward positions.
- Lift and carry materials weighing up to 50–100 pounds occasionally, depending on job assignment.
- Climb stairs, ladders, and platforms as needed.
- Perform repetitive hand and arm movements.
- Work in areas with elevated temperatures.
- Safely perform job duties while wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).
Work Environment
- Industrial manufacturing environment.
- Exposure to dust, heat, steam, and high levels of noise.
- Exposure to moving mechanical equipment and industrial machinery.
- Required use of PPE, including safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and steel-toe boots.
- May be required to work in confined, elevated, or otherwise challenging work areas as necessary to perform job duties.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Ability to read, write, and understand written instructions, safety procedures, and production documentation.
- Strong electrical and mechanical troubleshooting skills.
- Knowledge of PLC systems, automation controls, and industrial manufacturing equipment.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, blueprints, technical manuals, and equipment documentation.
- Basic understanding of hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
- Basic mechanical aptitude.
- Ability to diagnose equipment problems and determine appropriate corrective actions.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Effective communication skills with supervisors, coworkers, operators, and maintenance personnel.
- Ability to maintain attention to safety, quality, and production standards.
Education and Experience
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Technical training in electrical, automation, electronics, or industrial maintenance preferred.
- Previous experience with PLCs, automation systems, electrical systems, or industrial maintenance preferred.
Schedule
- Day Shift: Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–6:00 PM.
- Night Shift: Monday–Thursday, 4:00 PM–3:00 AM; may occasionally be required to work Fridays.
- May be required to work weekends or holidays based on production needs.
- Overtime may be required based on production demands.
- Start times may vary depending on department, assignment, or location.
Safety Requirements
- Must follow all company safety policies and procedures.
- Must complete and pass all required safety training.
- Must wear required PPE while performing job duties.
- Must immediately report unsafe conditions, incidents, or injuries.
- Must participate in required safety meetings and training.
Essential Functions and Reasonable Accommodation
Cherokee Brick & Tile Company is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. Employees who require reasonable accommodation should notify Human Resources so the Company can engage in the interactive process.
Disclaimer
This job description describes the general nature of the work performed and is not intended to be a complete list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Duties and responsibilities may change as business needs require.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Cherokee Brick & Tile Company is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.
***Drug and Alcohol Testing Requirement: Cherokee Brick & Tile Company & Affiliates is a drug-free workplace. The selected applicant for this position must successfully complete a post-offer drug and/or alcohol test as a condition of employment. Refusal to test or failure to comply with the testing process may result in withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment.***