Automation Technician (Manufacturing)
Company Overview
Stella-Jones is a leading manufacturer of essential infrastructure products focused on serving utilities and railroads, as well as supplying big box home improvement stores across North America. Headquartered in Montreal, Canada and publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange, Stella-Jones operates a vast network of facilities that employs more than 3,000 employees across the United States and Canada. Built on strong foundations with a coast-to-coast reach, we offer real opportunities for career success and community impact. For more information about the company, visit us at: https://www.stella-jones.com/en/inside-stella-jones
Position Overview
The Automation Technician at Stella-Jones is responsible for supporting and enhancing industrial automation systems across U.S. manufacturing facilities, focusing on efficient and reliable operations through hands-on technical expertise. Core tasks include programming and troubleshooting PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, and other automated equipment to ensure seamless operational flow and minimize downtime. Working both independently and within our growing team, the Automation Technician will execute system modifications, update firmware, and guide contractors as needed. The Automation Tech will also contribute to system improvements, including cybersecurity initiatives, and conduct site visits to perform wiring and other essential tasks that keep equipment in peak condition.
This is a newly created, remote role to be home-based ideally in the Evansville, Indiana area given the Indiana, Kentucky, and other Midwest/Northeast region plant locations this technician will be assisting. The position involves approximately up to 40% travel to various Stella-Jones manufacturing plants in the US and Canada to maintain, troubleshoot, and enhance automation systems. To ensure operational continuity, this position includes an occasional, remote on-call rotation (averaging one week per month). Given our reduced operational activity during nights and weekends, active support requests are infrequent.
Key Responsibilities
- Programming PLC, SCADA, HMI; Mostly Rockwell products
- Troubleshooting PLC, SCADA, VFD, Instruments, Network and more
- Support operations, sequence modifications, recipes, etc.
- Support engineering during process modifications
- Travel to facilities to assess equipment, modify system or calibrate
- Plan and guide contractors during system modifications (adding instruments, changing pumps, changing valves, replacing obsolete components)
- Participate in the continuous improvement of networks and cybersecurity
- Be aware of new available product, participate in continuous improvement
- Plan system migration and work on reducing shutdowns
- Migrate system and update Firmware
Potential project involvement in 2026 may include
- Pole classing system
- Cybersecurity system deployment
- Complete SCADA migration
Qualifications
- Five (5) or more years of related experience in the manufacturing automation arena
- Programming knowledge with LADDER, FONCTION BLOCK, SFC
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Excellent knowledge of industrial processes
- Ability to read and understand P&ID
- SQL knowledge a plus
- Knowledge in wood products industries processes a plus
- Valid passport (for travel to Canada)
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Employee Benefits: As a Stella-Jones employee, you will have access to excellent benefits and incentives including:
- The security of working for a company designated as an essential workplace
- Comprehensive total benefits package with 3 medical plans to choose from
- Several company-paid benefits including:
- Dental and Vision coverage
- Life insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) policies
- Long-Term Disability Coverage
- Access to a robust employee assistance program
- Competitive compensation
- Annual bonus program opportunity
- 401(k) savings plan with generous Company match (150% on the first 4% deferred)
- 2 weeks paid vacation and 9 holidays
- Career advancement opportunities
- Ability to purchase Company stock