Controls Technician

Since 1869, we've connected people through food they love. We’re proud to be stewards of amazing brands that people trust. Our portfolio includes the iconic Campbell’s brand, as well as Cape Cod, Chunky, Goldfish, Kettle Brand, Lance, Late July, Pacific Foods, Pepperidge Farm, Prego, Pace, Rao’s Homemade, Snack Factory, Snyder’s of Hanover.Swanson, and V8.

Here, you will make a difference every day. You will be supported to build a rewarding career with opportunities to grow, innovate and inspire. Make history with us.

Job Title: Controls Technician

Pay Rate: $40.00

Reports to (Title): Maintenance Supervisor

Location: Lakeland

Job Summary

The Controls Technician is responsible for the maintenance, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of plant electrical, controls, and automation systems.

This role ensures safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations by diagnosing and resolving issues involving PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, robotics, servo systems, industrial networks, and associated electrical and electromechanical equipment. The Controls Technician works independently and collaboratively with Maintenance, Engineering, Operations, and external vendors to support equipment reliability and process performance.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Controls & Electrical Systems Support

Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair plant electrical, controls, and automation systems

Diagnose electrical, electronic, mechanical, and control system failures using root cause analysis

Independently perform advanced troubleshooting and implement corrective actions without assistance

Support PLC-based systems, including program diagnostics, downloads/uploads, and modifications

Automation & Equipment Troubleshooting

Troubleshoot and support:

PLC systems (Allen-Bradley preferred)

HMIs and SCADA systems (e.g., Wonderware, Intellution)

Servo systems, robotics, and motion control

PID control loops, heat systems, and process controls

Identify and resolve issues in sensors, relays, instrumentation, and industrial communication systems

Installation, Modification & MOC

Install, modify, and validate electrical wiring and control components in compliance with code

Execute Management of Change (MOC) processes and maintain accurate documentation

Support fabrication, installation, and system modifications to meet engineering and regulatory requirements

Maintenance & Reliability

Perform preventive and predictive maintenance on electrical and control systems

Maintain accurate records of repairs, calibrations, and inspections

Utilize SAP (or equivalent CMMS) for work orders, parts, and maintenance documentation

Support reliability and waste reduction initiatives across the plant

Systems & Process Support

Troubleshoot bulk ingredient systems, refrigeration systems, and process equipment

Support industrial communication networks (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, DH+, etc.)

Utilize electrical test equipment to diagnose circuit and component failures

Safety, Quality & Compliance

Adhere to all safety standards including Lockout/Tagout, Arc Flash, and electrical safety programs

Follow GMP, food safety, and environmental compliance requirements

Perform scheduled safety and environmental inspections and ensure corrective actions are completed

Identify and escalate safety, compliance, or system design risks

Collaboration & Training

Interface with operators, maintenance technicians, engineering, vendors, and contractors to resolve issues

Provide technical guidance and support during equipment troubleshooting and installations

Train and mentor maintenance technicians, setup technicians, and operators as needed

Scope of Responsibility

Responsible for maintaining and improving plant control systems and automation reliability

Operates with a high level of independence in troubleshooting and decision making

Direct impact on equipment uptime, process consistency, and operational efficiency

All other duties as assigned

Technical & Functional Knowledge

PLC troubleshooting and programming support (Ladder Logic, I/O diagnostics)

Industrial networks: Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet, ControlNet, Modbus, DH+

SCADA and HMI systems used in manufacturing environments

Servo systems, VFDs, robotics, and motion control

Electrical systems from 24V DC to 480V AC

PID loops, sensors, relays, and instrumentation

Refrigeration and process control systems

Explosion-proof and intrinsically safe environments

Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, ladder logic, and engineering drawings

Proficiency with Microsoft Office and CMMS systems (SAP preferred)

Education & Experience

Required

High School Diploma or GED

Vocational or technical training in electrical, electronics, or industrial controls OR minimum 5 years of relevant experience

Demonstrated ability to independently troubleshoot and repair complex control systems

Preferred

Technical certification or diploma in Industrial Controls or Automation

5+ years of PLC troubleshooting experience using Ladder Logic

Experience with Allen-Bradley hardware and software platforms

Experience supporting robotic or automated manufacturing systems

Additional Requirements

Must be willing to work flexible schedules, including nights, weekends, and overtime

Must participate in ongoing technical training to stay current with advancing technologies

Position awarded based on qualifications, experience, attendance, and business need

Physical & Work Environment

Work performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to:

Moving machinery and electrical systems

Noise and temperature variation

Industrial hazards and elevated/confined spaces

Requires standing, walking, climbing, bending, and hands-on troubleshooting

Required use of appropriate PPE

Individual base pay depends on work location and additional factors such as experience, job-related skills, and relevant education or training. Total pay may include other forms of compensation. In addition, we offer competitive health, dental, 401k and wellness benefits beginning on the first day of employment. Please ask your Talent Acquisition Partner for more information about our total rewards package.

The Company is committed to providing equal opportunity for employees and qualified applicants in all aspects of the employment relationship, including consideration for employment, without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, marital status, protected veteran status, disability, age, religion, or any other classification protected by law.