Controls Technician
Reports To: Automation & Engineering Manager
Location: Holstein, IA
Position Overview
We are seeking a hands-on Controls Technician to support the maintenance, troubleshooting, programming, and continuous improvement of industrial control systems within a manufacturing environment. This role plays a critical part in ensuring equipment reliability, minimizing downtime, and supporting automation initiatives across production operations.
The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced setting, enjoys solving complex technical challenges, and works collaboratively with engineering, maintenance, and production teams.
Key Responsibilities
- Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain electrical control systems including PLCs, HMIs, sensors, drives, and motor controls
- Program and modify PLCs and HMIs to support process improvements and equipment upgrades
- Build, modify, and integrate electrical and controls components for manufacturing equipment
- Create and maintain electrical schematics and documentation using AutoCAD Electrical
- Support integration of new equipment into existing control systems
- Provide technical troubleshooting support using electrical schematics and system diagnostics
- Perform preventive and predictive maintenance to reduce downtime
- Maintain accurate documentation including wiring diagrams, system configurations, and change logs
- Participate in root cause analysis and implement corrective actions
- Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, and production teams to meet operational goals
- Train maintenance personnel on basic control system troubleshooting
- Operate a forklift (certification required or obtainable)
- Follow all safety standards and regulatory requirements
- Perform additional duties as assigned
Qualifications
- Associate’s degree or technical certification in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or related field
- OR
- 3+ years of hands-on experience working with industrial control systems in a manufacturing environment
- (Bachelor’s degree preferred)
- Proficiency with PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar platforms)
- Experience configuring HMIs
- Strong understanding of industrial electrical systems and instrumentation
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and technical documentation
- Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
- Strong communication and teamwork abilities
- Knowledge of safety standards and regulatory compliance
Entry-level candidates with strong interest in Industrial Automation, Electrical Systems, or Engineering are encouraged to apply.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit for extended periods and work at a computer
- Manual dexterity for typing, writing, and tool use
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally
- Frequent walking throughout manufacturing facilities
- Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, reach, climb ladders, and maintain balance on industrial surfaces
- Travel between facilities as required
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
Benefits
Comprehensive benefits package including:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Flexible spending and health savings accounts
- Life insurance
- Short- and long-term disability coverage
- Paid time off
- Tuition reimbursement
- Employee assistance program
- And more
