Instrumentation and Controls Specialist - 2nd Shift

General Summary:

Under the direction and supervision of the Technical and/or Maintenance Manager, this position will provide plant instrumentation and controls support in the design, assembly, integration, testing, troubleshooting and commissioning of PLC-based control systems and instrumentation.  This individual will be engaged in the area of automation throughout the plant and will be responsible for leading troubleshooting activities and assisting with improvement/capital work related to automation and instrumentation.

Essential Functions:

• Responsible at all times for promoting a safety culture and awareness within area of responsibility.  Support all plant safety policies and procedures.
• Assist with the design and modification of new and existing process control and instrumentation systems.
• Act as a technical resource for capital projects relating to automation and controls infrastructure, etc.
• Under the direction of the Sr. Instrumentation and Controls Engineer, continually improve packaging and processing equipment controls logic for better efficiency and reduced waste.
• Assist plant Electricians, Maintenance Mechanics and Line Mechanics in all instrumentation and control-based troubleshooting, improvement initiatives, preventative maintenance and testing and other plant maintenance activities.
• Understand processing automation for troubleshooting and improving cycle time throughput. 
• Assist in instrument calibration activities throughout the facility.
• The individual may be required to provide electrical support and should be skilled in doing so safely.
• During certain periods the position may require a flexible work schedule, to be planned in advance, to support specific plant needs requiring instrumentation and controls support during non-standard work hours.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives utilizing lean manufacturing tools and techniques.
• Promote fair and consistent adherence to all local and corporate policies and procedures.
• Ensures all quality and food safety practices are followed at all times.
• Performs other related duties as required and assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Excellent interpersonal skills – ability to build positive relationships at all levels of the organization Excellent communications skills – ability to communicate clearly and concisely in multiple media – verbal, written, etc. Excellent organizational/time management skills.  Experience in the design, assembly, integration, testing, troubleshooting and commissioning of PLC-based control systems, with the desire and ability to advance this skillset.  Proven knowledge of National Electrical Code (NEC) and Underwriter Laboratories (UL) standards, Allen Bradley Controls, AC and motor controls, and process sensors of all types Capability to calibrate and test instrumentation and controls, verify instrumentation accuracy and effectiveness and perform routine maintenance on the plant-wide controls system.  Ability to interpret, red-line and prepare detailed control and instrumentation schematics, ladder logic diagrams, wiring schematics and PID’s/PFD’s. Ability to prioritize and direct work assignments in a fast-paced, dynamic, production driven work environment. Solid critical thinking skills and ability to create new, innovative ways to handle situations with a strong bias towards Continuous Improvement fundamentals. Understanding of lean manufacturing principles including 5S, TPM, RCA, etc. Strong computer skills (MS Office Suite, MS Project, CMMS and SAP).  Working knowledge of SAP Maintenance Module and AutoCAD a plus. Ability to methodically collect and analyze data and make appropriate recommendations. Strong knowledge of production operation, including equipment, materials, workflow, etc.

Education/Experience:

3-5 years of controls/instrumentation/electrical experience in a high volume, multiple SKU, fast-paced manufacturing environment.  CPG and/or experience in a FDA-regulated manufacturing environment preferred.  Must be shift flexible to work various hours and shifts as needed, especially during large projects, installations, etc.  Formal training in control systems and instrumentation, or equivalent work experience, required.

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