Factory Automation Technician

Factory Automation Technician – Night Shift
Fuquay-Varina, NC – Onsite | 4x10s (Mon–Thu Nights)

We’re seeking a senior-level Factory Automation Technician to support night-shift operations for an industrial manufacturing client in Fuquay-Varina, NC. This role is critical to keeping multiple assembly lines running and replaces the current night-shift automation/controls technician.

If you’re an experienced Allen-Bradley / Rockwell PLC technician who enjoys solving complex problems independently on nights in a high-volume manufacturing environment, this is for you.

What You’ll Do

As the go-to automation technician on night shift, you will:

• Support and troubleshoot Allen-Bradley / Rockwell PLCs (Studio 5000/Logix family) and HMIs on multiple assembly lines.
• Perform advanced troubleshooting and minor code modifications: log into PLCs, pull tags, interpret ladder logic/structured text, and make safe online edits.
• Maintain and repair mistake-proofing systems and devices, including:
  • PLCs and HMIs
  • Machine vision / camera systems
  • Light curtains, sensors, pick-to-light systems, smart torque tools
• Support production uptime by quickly diagnosing and resolving controls-related issues affecting product flow.
• Collaborate with operations and manufacturing engineering to implement and maintain mistake-proofing solutions.
• Assist with documentation (as needed): update logic/parameter notes, device lists, and other maintenance records to support shift handoffs.
• Respond to breakdowns and production-stopping issues on nights with minimal supervision.

What “Great” Looks Like

You’re comfortable being the person everyone calls when a line stops on night shift. You:

• Can independently log into Rockwell PLCs and HMIs, pull tags, read the code, and identify where problems likely live.
• Think beyond simple I/O swaps and approach problems logically from both hardware and software angles.
• Have real-world experience with automation hardware and safety devices: light curtains, sensors, machine vision, torque tools, etc.
• Communicate clearly with production, maintenance, and day-shift engineering so problems don’t repeat.

Must-Have Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on experience as an Automation/Controls/Maintenance Technician in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong, practical experience with Allen-Bradley / Rockwell PLCs, including:
  • Studio 5000 / Logix 5000 (or similar)
  • Ability to read and troubleshoot ladder logic/structured text
  • Comfort making minor online edits and tag changes safely
• Proven success supporting night shift or off-shift operations, working independently with limited onsite engineering support.
• Ability to diagnose both hardware and software issues across PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and safety devices.
• Strong troubleshooting mindset, attention to detail, and clear communication skills (verbal and written).

Nice-to-Have Skills

These are not strict requirements but will set you apart:

• Experience working with a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) or similar production IT systems integrated with PLCs.
• Experience with SQL/database tools for basic queries and data checks.
• Experience with machine vision (e.g., Presence Plus or similar camera systems).
• Familiarity with smart torque tools, pick-to-light, and other mistake-proofing technologies.
• Knowledge of electrical systems from 480VAC down to 24VDC and electrical safety practices.
• Prior exposure to PFMEA, mistake-proof planning, or continuous improvement initiatives.

Schedule & Location

• Shift: Night shift, Monday–Thursday, 10-hour shifts
  • Typical hours: approximately 6:30 pm – 5:00 am
  • Fridays as needed, based on production/maintenance demands (generally less weekend work than many similar roles).
• Location: Onsite in Fuquay-Varina, NC (commutable from Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, Garner, Fayetteville, and surrounding areas).
• Work Environment: High-volume industrial manufacturing, assembly-line production, hands-on work on the plant floor.