Automation & Controls Technician

Job Summary

Join Grande Cheese as a Automation & Controls Technician supporting our Cheese and Whey operations in Juda, Wisconsin. In this role, you'll serve as the facility's subject matter expert for automation, controls, and electrical systems, leading projects, troubleshooting complex issues, and driving continuous improvement initiatives that enhance reliability, efficiency, and production performance. Located within commuting distance of Madison, Monroe, Janesville, Beloit, Platteville, and Rockford, this position partners closely with Operations, Engineering, and Maintenance teams to implement automation solutions, support plant technology, and optimize manufacturing processes. Leveraging your expertise in Allen-Bradley PLCs, Rockwell Automation, HMIs, SCADA, VFDs, industrial networking, and electrical controls, you'll play a critical role in the success of the Juda facility while helping develop the technical capabilities of those around you.

What You'll Do:

• Lead PLC and HMI programming, troubleshooting, and optimization efforts.
• Drive automation and controls improvement projects from concept through implementation.
• Serve as the site's technical expert for control systems, industrial networks, and electrical equipment.
• Partner with Operations and Engineering teams to improve reliability and production performance.
• Mentor Maintenance Technicians and support technical skill development across the facility.
• Grow your expertise at your own pace through hands-on experience, technical training, and continuous learning opportunities.

Hours & Shift: 12-Hour Alternating 2-2-3 Shifts, 4AM-4PM

• Every Other Weekend Is a 3-Day Weekend
• Only 14-15 Workdays on Average Per Month
• Regular 2-3 Day Breaks Built In
• Predictable Schedule for Better Work-Life Balance

Competitive Pay + Up to $6,000 in Bonuses

• $3,000 sign-on bonus paid within your first 30 days
• $3,000 retention bonus paid after 6 months of service

What you need to be considered for the role:

• 2 Year / Associate Degree in an Electrical or other related technical field required. An equivalent level of experience may be considered.
• Minimum of five (5) years related Maintenance experience.
• Experience with PLCs, HMIs, AC/servo drives, and Allen-Bradley systems.
• Knowledge of instrumentation, calibration, troubleshooting, and PID control loops.
• Strong understanding of industrial electrical systems, wiring, controls, and power distribution.
• Experience with industrial networks and communications.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Rockwell software, AutoCAD, and Visio.
• Knowledge of industrial machinery, pneumatics, hydraulics, and packaging equipment.
• Project management experience.
• Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, and mathematical skills.

Experience That May Transfer Well

Experience in any of the following may be a good foundation for this role:

• Electronics manufacturing
• SMT (Surface Mount Technology)
• PCB (Printed Circuit Board) assembly
• Manufacturing or production technician experience
• Machine operation and troubleshooting
• Industrial maintenance
• Electromechanical equipment
• CNC equipment and machinery
• Automotive repair or automotive technology
• Robotics or automation
• Technical school training or manufacturing technology programs

Why Juda?

There is so much to see and do in this scenic part of our state. Take a journey through our extensive multi-use trail system or tour the oldest continuously working brewery in the midwest (we are home to the second oldest brewery in the nation). Immerse yourself in local and regional art and then sample some of the best cheese this country has to offer, as we have many Master Cheesemakers that call Monroe and Green County home. Whether you are an avid biker, ATV or Snowmobile enthusiast, or just like that pleasant scenic drive, you will enjoy the outdoor activities, trails and parks that are offered here in Monroe and Green County. Monroe boasts 175 acres of parks for you and your familys leisure, and we are home to two State Parks in Green County encompassing over 415 acres of land. Additionally, both the Badger State Trail and the Cheese County Trail run through Monroe, together these trails have 87 miles of pure enjoyment. Feel like hitting the greens? Green County is home to 4 public and private golf courses, a driving range, two miniature golf courses and 5 campgrounds. There is literally something for everyone in Monroe and Green County when it comes to recreation.

Why Grande?

With more than 80 years of crafting The Finest Italian Cheeses Money Can Buy, Grande is a leader in the industry! Whether partnering with independent pizzerias from coast-to-coast to ensure theyre delivering the very best pizza to their customers or assisting our food manufacturing partners in delivering specialty whey ingredient solutions, our commitment to quality cant be matched. While Grandes reputation of excellence in the market is important, we believe our commitment to our workplace and community culture is of equal merit our Associates come first at Grande. To complement our industry-leading benefits, Grande puts an emphasis on your career growth opportunities, while always promoting a positive work/life balance and supporting the communities in which we live and work. If you want to learn more about our company what we do and how we go about it or learn more about us, visit www.grande.com.

Did we convince you yet? If not check out our unique benefits

• Free onsite clinics.
• Free onsite fitness center.
• Free healthy snacks throughout facility.
• Health and wellness reimbursement program.
• Associate cheese purchasing program.
• Two-year mentorship program.