Automation & PLC Technician

Automation & PLC Technician

About Rittal LLC Rittal North America has built a strong tradition of innovation and takes pride in a progressive approach to engineering. We design and manufacture the world’s leading industrial and IT enclosures, racks, and accessories, including high-efficiency, high-density power management, and climate control systems for industrial, data center, outdoor, and hybrid applications.

Position Summary As the Automation & PLC Technician, you will support the design, installation, programming, maintenance, and continuous improvement of manufacturing equipment and industrial control systems. This role is responsible for troubleshooting and optimizing PLCs, robotics, electrical systems, and automated manufacturing equipment to improve productivity, quality, uptime, and safety. The Automation & PLC Technician plays a critical role in supporting manufacturing operations, new product launches, continuous improvement initiatives, and maintaining world-class manufacturing standards.

Why Work at Rittal & Eplan LLC Great Place To Work® Certified, Rittal & Eplan LLC offers a workplace culture, employee experiences, and collaborative innovation that foster a thriving environment.

• Compensation: Competitive salary + bonus
• Benefits begin: 1st of the month after hire
• 401(k) Match
• Health & Wellness Benefits:
  • Paid Volunteer Time
  • Fitness Reimbursement
  • Pet Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Opportunity to work with advanced automation, robotics, and manufacturing technologies in a growing global organization

Key Responsibilities

• Design, build, install, troubleshoot, and improve industrial control and PLC systems
• Program, maintain, and troubleshoot Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and Mitsubishi PLC platforms
• Support robotic systems including Fanuc, Motoman, ABB, and KUKA controllers and programming languages
• Develop, evaluate, and improve manufacturing processes utilizing knowledge of product design, materials, fabrication, and assembly methods
• Support and manage automation and continuous improvement projects
• Research and implement new technologies and processes to improve productivity, quality, and operational efficiency
• Lead and support new product introductions and manufacturing launches
• Provide input and technical guidance for machine control systems used in fabrication, welding, assembly, and paint operations
• Work with single-phase and three-phase power distribution systems
• Ensure compliance with National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements and applicable OSHA regulations
• Maintain and update electrical schematics, documentation, and machine records
• Assist the Maintenance Department with troubleshooting and resolving equipment failures
• Develop and implement long-term corrective actions for machine downtime and product quality concerns
• Create and support technical training materials for maintenance troubleshooting and repair
• Participate in benchmarking and continuous improvement activities supporting world-class manufacturing initiatives
• Support budget planning and capital equipment improvement projects
• Achieve departmental targets related to quality, productivity, uptime, on-time delivery, and cost
• Maintain personal action trackers and provide regular project status updates
• Participate in production, engineering, staff, and project meetings
• Foster a positive workplace culture through collaboration, teamwork, and open communication
• Continuously develop technical knowledge and professional competencies
• Support all company safety and environmental initiatives
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications Education

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Industrial Automation, Mechatronics, or related technical field preferred
• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering or Engineering Technology preferred

Experience

• Mechanical and electrical troubleshooting experience required
• Hands-on experience with industrial automation and control systems required
• Experience programming and troubleshooting PLCs preferred
• Experience with robotic automation systems preferred
• Manufacturing experience in sheet metal fabrication, welding, powder coating, stamping, or related processes preferred

Skills & Competencies

• Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis skills
• Knowledge of industrial electrical systems and controls
• Understanding of PLC programming, HMI systems, sensors, drives, and industrial networks
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and technical drawings
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications
• Experience with AutoCAD and/or ProE preferred
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and problem-solving abilities

Physical Requirements

• Ability to spend extended periods on the manufacturing floor and in an office environment
• Frequently stand, walk, bend, twist, reach, and move throughout the facility
• Occasionally lift 25–50 pounds to waist level and up to 25 pounds above shoulder height

Work Environment

• Work in both office and manufacturing plant environments
• Exposure to production equipment, machinery, noise, and varying temperatures common in manufacturing facilities

Safety Requirements

• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including:
  • Safety-toed footwear
  • Safety glasses with side shields
  • Hearing protection
  • Additional PPE as required by the work area

The ideal candidate will be a technically driven problem solver with a passion for automation, controls, and continuous improvement. They will thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, demonstrate strong analytical skills, and effectively collaborate across Engineering, Maintenance, Production, and Leadership teams to improve equipment reliability and operational performance.

If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process due to a disability, you may contact the company’s Human Resources Department at (937) 399-0500.

This option is reserved for individuals who require accommodation due to a disability.

Rittal LLC and Eplan are proud to be an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. EEO, including Disability/Vets.