Automation Specialist

LOCATION:

- Posted on Aug 7, 2025

- Wilton, Iowa, United States

AREA:

Production & Operations

Empowering people who build the future.

GENERAL SUMMARY: An Automation Specialist will install, maintain, and replace automation systems throughout the production process. Must be able to troubleshoot component parts, service and repair industrial process control systems, instrumentation, robotic assembly devices, and computer-controlled equipment designed to reduce human interaction. Work involves a wide range of diversified and complex duties including installation, modification, and programming of complex closed loop and digital electronic equipment. Subject matter expert in the area of Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) programming (Primarily Rockwell and ABB), and HMI Systems. Automation, and instrumentation including motion sensors, control components, load cells, VFD’s, photosensors, camera systems and other vital technology. In addition to maintaining smooth operation, you will operate as a subject matter expert (SME) for leadership and key decision-makers, delivering reports on current automation capabilities and future opportunities. This is a specialized position, and our ideal applicant has considerable experience and education in engineering, robotics, and production automation.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1. Performs advanced PLC programming and HMI programming, networking, and troubleshooting; setup and install hardware; and as necessary evaluate equipment making recommendation for design changes and improvements. 2. Has expert knowledge and understanding, as well as the ability to modify, ancillary systems or equipment used in conjunction with PLCs such as: operating systems, software packages, drives and/or data acquisition systems, taking care to identify the root causes of equipment failure. 3. May check and calibrate plant instrumentation; routinely checks plant equipment, reheat furnace, melt shop electronic systems or other instrumentation. Will document testing of emergency systems for compliance purposes. Will work with analytic software, calculators, meters, and electronic probes in order to diagnose faults in circuitry. 4. Interprets schematics/blueprints at an expert level. 5. Research, specify, and help source equipment, parts, and digital solutions.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Works with related diagnostic equipment including digital voltmeter, multi-volt meter, oscilloscope, and other electronic tools and equipment. 2. Plans and assists engineers and plant leadership with projects that involve installation or modification of equipment. 3. Helps in coordinating the activities and troubleshooting of maintenance employees and contractors on assigned projects. 4. Follow all PPE requirements and safety rules and guidelines for all tasks being performed. 5. Responsible for training other personnel on electrical systems, PLC’s, HMI’s, networks, process changes, etc. 6. Perform all other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS: High school diploma or GED. Associates or bachelor’s degree in mechanical or electrical engineering or Automation technology, robotics, or a closely related technical field is preferred. 10 years of heavy industrial electrical maintenance experience preferred. Experience working in an industrial environment. Maintain a thorough and working knowledge/understanding of and be familiar with computer science, mechanics, electronics, machinery, human-machine interfaces, and process controls. Must possess strong math, computer, and electrical skills. Must be familiar with a variety of hand tools and be an excellent problem solver. It is critical to have a thorough understanding of equipment including motors, drives, pneumatics, and hydraulics. Ability to read blueprints. Advanced knowledge and verifiable training and/or work experience in: AC/DC motor theory PLC Programing/network configuration Factory Talk HMI system configuration Expert drive knowledge ABB and Rockwell Electrical controls Data acquisition systems, process cameras, HMI Interfaces.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to climb stairs, climb ladders, reach, squat, tolerate prolonged standing or walking, balance, bend, operate mobile equipment, crawl, kneel, and push and pull objects. Ability to reach, squat, and tolerate prolonged sitting. Ability to lift up to 35 lbs. Ability to perform sustained overhead reaching. Ability to work in extreme ambient temperatures up to 160°F. Ability to work in cramped quarters and at heights. Ability to work a shift schedule, including days, nights, and weekends. Ability to work call ins for emergency work when the plant is down. Ability to tolerate working in areas where noise levels can reach 120 decibels.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

Gerdau believes in equal employment opportunity related to all employees and applicants for employment. It is the policy of Gerdau that there will be no discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, marital status, sex, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status. All external applicants must be legally eligible to immediately work in the country of hire without current or future sponsorship.

If you are vision-impaired or have some other disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act / Accessible Canada Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to applying for employment at Gerdau, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team at (866)-788-2798 or recruiting@gerdau.com