Automation Technician

Novacel is seeking an Automation Technician to build, wire, program, test, troubleshoot, and support industrial control systems and automated equipment. This hands-on role combines electrical panel assembly with automation programming, machine commissioning, and technical troubleshooting. The ideal candidate has experience building industrial control panels, understands electrical and automation systems, and possesses early- to mid-level PLC and HMI programming skills. This position is essential to delivering reliable, high-quality automation solutions while maintaining a strong commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Build and wire industrial electrical control panels from schematics, layouts, and bills of materials.

• Install and wire PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, relays, contactors, motor starters, power supplies, safety devices, and other control components.

• Perform low-voltage control wiring and three-phase power distribution.

• Wire field devices including sensors, motors, actuators, valves, and remote I/O.

• Route, terminate, label, and verify wiring in accordance with UL 508A, NFPA 79, and company standards.

• Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs and HMI applications.

• Configure and troubleshoot VFDs, safety controllers, and industrial communication networks.

• Perform panel checkout, I/O verification, power-up, and functional testing.

• Support machine startup, commissioning, troubleshooting, and debugging in the shop and at customer sites as needed.

• Diagnose electrical and control system issues using standard electrical test equipment and diagnostic software.

• Collaborate with Engineering to resolve issues, implement design improvements, and support continuous improvement initiatives.

• Inspect completed assemblies to ensure quality and compliance with drawings and specifications.

• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment.

Required Qualifications and Skills:

• Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent experience in electrical technology, mechatronics, industrial automation, or a related field.

• Two or more years of experience in industrial automation, machine building, or controls.

• Experience building industrial electrical control panels.

• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and panel layouts.

• Working knowledge of PLC programming and troubleshooting (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Omron, or similar).

• Experience configuring HMIs and industrial automation equipment.

• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, or Profinet.

• Knowledge of industrial control components, low-voltage wiring, and three-phase power systems.

• Proficiency using electrical test equipment, including multimeters and continuity testers.

• Understanding of UL 508A, NFPA 70 (NEC), and NFPA 79 standards.

• Strong troubleshooting, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet project deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience commissioning automated equipment.

• Familiarity with servo systems, motion control, robotics, machine vision, or safety systems.

• Experience with AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN, or similar electrical design software.

• Experience supporting equipment installation and customer startups.