Automation Technician

Sterling Engineering

The Role

Overview

Assemble, start up, and troubleshoot industrial automation equipment.

Key Responsibilities

  • mechanical assembly
  • control systems
  • plc troubleshooting
  • startup commissioning
  • panel wiring
  • maintenance repair

Tasks

-Follow all company and customer safety protocols. -Interpret mechanical drawings, blueprints, and schematics for assembly and fabrication. -Perform mechanical assembly, machining, welding, and fabrication of custom industrial systems. -Collaborate with engineering and field service teams to resolve equipment issues. -Configure and troubleshoot control systems and PLC interfaces. -Conduct startup and commissioning of automated machinery in-house and on customer sites. -Wire and test industrial control panels (24VDC–480VAC). -Perform preventive maintenance on conveyors, gear-driven systems, and vibratory equipment. -Diagnose and repair hydraulic and pneumatic systems.

Requirements

  • 5+ years
  • plc troubleshooting
  • mechanical assembly
  • aws welder
  • safety conscious
  • blueprint reading

What You Bring

We’re looking for a skilled Senior Technician to assemble, start up, and troubleshoot industrial automation equipment. This hands-on role combines mechanical assembly, fabrication, and machining with electrical troubleshooting and PLC control systems. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, detail-oriented, and can work independently or as part of a team in a dynamic manufacturing environment. -5+ years in a technician or field service role (automation or custom equipment manufacturing preferred). -Strong problem-solving and communication skills. -Comfortable working in manufacturing floors and customer sites. -AWS Certified Welder or equivalent preferred. -Strong mechanical assembly, fabrication, welding, and machining skills. -Proficient in PLC troubleshooting (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar). -Experience with industrial control panel wiring and electrical systems. -Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel for field service. -Self-motivated, organized, and safety-conscious. -Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and hydraulic/pneumatic diagrams. -Able to mentor junior technicians.

Benefits

$35–$40/hr based on experience | Full-Time

The Company

About Sterling Engineering

-Founded in 1969 in Westchester, Illinois, the firm has evolved from a local recruiter to a national engineering and IT staffing company. -They combine engineering consulting and project services with a strong technical recruitment arm. -They deliver managed engineering teams and custom IT solutions for IoT, security, QA automation, and more. -They specialize in serving verticals like energy, utilities, life sciences, food & beverage, and manufacturing.

Sector Specialisms

Agriculture

Construction

Locomotive

Mining

Off-road Vehicle

Automation & Robotics

Utilities

Renewable Energy

Food & Beverage

Life Sciences

Manufacturing/R&D

Technology

Architectural

Civil

Environmental

Buildings

HVAC

Plumbing

Lighting

Energy

Fire Protection

Acoustics

Roads

Bridges

Railways

Pipelines