Controls and Automation Technician - (2nd, 3rd, or 4th Year Electrician/Instrumentation Technician)
Location: Lethbridge, AB | Shifts: Day & Afternoon
Tradesman Manufacturing is looking for a motivated 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year Apprentice Electrician/Instrumentation Technician with experience in instrumentation and automation to join our Maintenance team.
In this multifaceted role, you’ll help maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize manufacturing equipment and automation systems, perform preventive maintenance (PMs), equipment setups and repairs, and assist in developing control systems for custom automation projects.
At Tradesman, you’ll join a reliable and supportive team that values hands-on learning and offers ongoing training programs to help you grow and succeed. We work with a partnership mentality and are guided by our core values: Quality, Service, Integrity, Community, and Adaptability.
Become part of a company that invests in your future. Join Tradesman Manufacturing—a name you can trust, and a team you’ll be proud to be part of.
REPORTS TO: Maintenance Supervisor
HOURS: 40 hours weekly (plus 2.5 hours banked). 7:00am – 4:00pm
SUMMARY: The Controls and Automation Technician plays a multifaceted role in maintaining, troubleshooting, optimizing manufacturing equipment and automation systems, performing mechanical tasks such as preventive maintenance (PMs), setup, and repairs, and developing control systems for design-built automation projects. The primary responsibility will be to ensure the efficient functioning of controls, instrumentation, and automation processes in our manufacturing plant. You will collaborate closely with the engineering and production teams to enhance productivity, minimize downtime, uphold the highest quality standards in our products, and contribute to the development of cutting-edge automation solutions.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
•Design, develop, and implement control systems for custom-built automation projects, ensuring seamless integration of hardware and software components. Be an internal subject matter expert for control systems (PLC, HMI, Drives, Robotics), PID and control loop tuning, system integration and electro-mechanical devices.
•Perform regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs on control systems, automation equipment, and machinery to ensure optimal performance.
•Conduct preventive maintenance (PMs) on machinery, perform equipment setups, and execute repairs to mechanical components as necessary.
•Diagnose and troubleshoot electrical, electronic, automation, and mechanical issues in a timely and efficient manner to minimize production interruptions.
•Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programs to improve automation processes and enhance production efficiency.
•Calibrate and configure sensors, transmitters, and other instrumentation devices to maintain accuracy and reliability in the manufacturing processes.
•Work closely with engineers, production managers, and other team members to identify areas for automation improvement and implement solutions to optimize workflows. Actively participate in all phases of projects to optimize assembly procedures and systems for new product launches and automation upgrades.
•Maintain detailed records of maintenance activities, repairs, modifications, and control system designs. Create and update technical documentation, including schematics and manuals.
•Ensure all control, automation, and mechanical systems comply with safety regulations. Participate in safety audits and contribute to the development of safety protocols.
•Provide training to staff on the proper use and basic troubleshooting of automation systems, controls, and mechanical components.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
•Manual dexterity required for operating machinery and moving product.
•Ability to lift up to 50lbs frequently (includes low-level, waist level and above shoulder lifting).
•Ability to carry/push/pull up to 100lbs frequently.
•Work in confined spaces.
•Excellent eyesight and depth perception. Prescription eye correction is mandatory for those who require it.
•Standing for extended periods (+8hrs).
•Sitting for extended periods.
•Walking short distances frequently, at times on uneven surfaces.
•Occasional work at heights.
•Frequent bending, kneeling, and climbing (stairs/ladders).
•Frequent work in a high noise level environment with appropriate PPE.
ADDITIONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
•Display appropriate work ethics in the workplace and group settings which provides a positive influence on company workers/co-workers.
•Follows all company policies and procedures.
•Works as part of a team to maximize productivity and efficiency.
•Interpret drawings and evaluate spatial 3d mechanical design.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
•Working predominantly within a manufacturing environment.
•Exposure to seasonal temperature changes (heat/cold), loud noises, and moving machinery.
•Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in the manufacturing facility to include but not limited to, gloves, safety glasses, steel toe foot protection, hearing protection, and hard hats.
•Jewellery, loose fitting clothing (including ties, drawstrings, long hair (not secured), etc.) are not permitted.
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
•Electrical or Mechanical Engineering Technology Diploma (Robot and Automation Program) and/or Electrician or Instrumentation ticket or applicable substitute plus experience.
•2nd, 3rd, or 4th year apprentice Electrician or Instrumentation Technician
•Experience with PLCs and/or HMI programming (Allen Bradley, Siemens, Bijur, IDEC)
•Strong understanding of some or all of the following programming techniques Ladder Logic / Lader Diagram (LD), Structured Text (ST), Sequential Function Charts (SFC), Function Block Diagram (FBD), Instruction List (IL), and/or Data Flow
•Read and interpret blueprints and schematics, as well as understand and follow operations and machine manuals.
•Prior experience / knowledge working in a production environment.
•Effective research and implementation of new automation & robotics.
•Strong understanding of electrical and electronic systems.
•Knowledge of HMI (Human-Machine Interface) systems.
EQUIPMENT
•General Office Equipment
KNOWLEDGE
•A working knowledge of machine design, tools, and maintenance.
•Excellent computer skills including database updating, log entry, creating and printing reports, SharePoint, web browser, Microsoft Office and computerized maintenance management software (CMMS).
•Scripting languages such as Python
•Various communication protocols (TCP, Profibus, CanBus, Modbus, etc.)
•Computer networking and basic IT knowledge is an asset.
•Experience with automated sheet metal, production and process equipment preferred
•Solid understanding of CAD design practices using Inventor or Solidworks.
LANGUAGE SKILLS
•Oral comprehension and expression; Must speak, read, and write in English equivalent to the OECD Level 3 or higher.
MATHMATICAL SKILLS
•Ability to perform advanced mathematical equations with precision and accuracy. Numeracy skills equivalent to the OECD Level 4 or higher.
•Accurately read a tape measure.
OTHER SKILL REQUIREMENTS
•Forklift experience preferred.
•Excellent problem-solving skills
•Strong organizational skills.
•Keen attention to detail.
•Strong interpersonal skills.
NOTE: Tradesman Manufacturing reserves the right to revise or change job duties or responsibilities as the need arises. This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.
Lethbridge, AB
full time