Sr Controls Technician

Senior Controls TechnicianAs part of Richardson's global agriculture and food business, our food and ingredients division plays a central role in connecting farm to table through our vertically integrated supply chain. As a leading pasta manufacturer, Richardson produces a wide range of high-quality dry pasta products for diverse markets and end uses.Richardson provides an excellent compensation package consisting of a competitive salary, flexible benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, paid holidays, and training and career development opportunities.Working with Richardson opens the door to a world of possibility. We currently have an opportunity for a Senior Controls Technician at our Winchester, VA pasta production facility, where we produce Ronzoni pasta.Responsibilities:Diagnose and resolve complex automation and control system issues affecting safety, quality, uptime, and production.Design, improve, and maintain automation systems using preventive maintenance and root cause analysis to minimize downtime.Lead engineering updates, changes, testing, and commissioning of automation modifications for multiple high-speed production linesTrain, coach, and mentor operators, maintenance technicians, and peers on automation systems and proceduresLead and support special projects related to automation upgrades, retrofits, and new equipment installationsQualifications:Associate's degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, Mechatronics, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experienceMinimum 5 years of experience in industrial automation or controls within a manufacturing environment (food or high-speed packaging preferred)Strong knowledge of control panel design, layout, and troubleshootingExtensive experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs, VFDs, and HMIsHands-on experience with SCADA systemsProven ability to communicate effectively and resolve issues across multiple departments and organizational levelsProficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.Ability to read and interpret electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic schematicsDemonstrated capability to act as a technical leader and trainerStrong understanding of automation, instrumentation, and control products and related engineering principlesFamiliarity with automation suppliers and OEM equipmentPhysical Requirements:Qualified candidates must be able to perform the following physical job requirements, with or without reasonable accommodation:Walk, stand, crouch, lift (in excess of 60 pounds), twist, climb, reach, and grasp for 6+ hours per shiftWork in hot, humid, and cold manufacturing environmentsWork in confined or crowded spaces for extended periodsBend, crawl, and climb ladders for extended durations