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Maintenance Tech II - PLC Controls & Automation

Job Details

Lexington, NC
Full Time
$32.00 - $37.00 Hourly

Description

Job Summary:

The Maintenance Technician II is a skilled technician responsible for performing advanced-level electro-mechanical maintenance to support the efficient operation of production equipment and facility systems. This role requires strong hands-on expertise in PLC programming and troubleshooting, electrical/controls systems, and high-speed packaging equipment. The Maintenance Tech II will execute a mix of preventative, predictive, and diagnostic maintenance across automation controls, servo motors, conveyors, wrapping machines, vertical form-fill-seal baggers, scales, and tub machines. This position plays a key role in ensuring maximum equipment uptime, reducing production interruptions, and supporting food safety and regulatory compliance through reliable operation of automated systems.

Key Responsibilities:

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

  • Diagnose and repair breakdowns on motors, conveyors, high-speed packaging machinery (flow wrappers, vertical form-fill-seal baggers, scales, and tub machines), pneumatics, hydraulics, and electrical/PLC systems.

  • Troubleshoot and modify PLC logic (Allen Bradley preferred) and related control systems, HMIs, and servo drives.

  • Perform advanced preventive maintenance tasks under minimal supervision.

  • Conduct root cause analysis and support continuous improvement to prevent repeat failures.

  • Calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain process control systems and critical control points.

Installation & Fabrication

  • Install, modify, and upgrade automation and control systems.

  • Execute equipment installations and line modifications, including integration of sensors, VFDs, and servo motors.

  • Perform fabrication, welding, soldering, and light machining as needed.

Team Support & Collaboration

  • Mentor junior technicians in PLC troubleshooting, electrical safety, and advanced diagnostic techniques.

  • Collaborate closely with production supervisors, line leads, and quality personnel to minimize downtime and ensure equipment reliability.

  • Communicate repair status clearly and escalate complex issues when necessary.

Safety & Compliance

  • Adhere to and promote all safety protocols, including LOTO, PPE requirements, and safe work practices.

  • Participate in safety training, inspections, and corrective actions.

  • Maintain accurate CMMS records of work performed and system modifications.

Other Duties

  • Support sanitation efforts by assisting with cleaning equipment and related components during changeovers or shutdowns.

  • Perform facility maintenance as needed (lighting, air systems, plumbing, etc.).

  • Be available for on-call support or overtime during peak production or equipment emergencies.

Required Skills & Abilities:

  • Proficiency in troubleshooting and programming PLCs (Allen Bradley or equivalent) and industrial automation systems.

  • Working knowledge of 3-phase motors, VFDs, relays, motor controls, sensors, and servo drives.

  • Strong electrical skills, including wiring, motor controls, and schematics interpretation.

  • Skilled in pneumatics, hydraulics, and mechanical systems related to high-speed packaging equipment.

  • Ability to diagnose and repair flow wrappers, form-fill-seal baggers, scales, and tub machines.

  • Competence in using diagnostic tools, precision measuring instruments, and electrical test equipment.

  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills under pressure.

  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stand for long periods, and work in hot or cold environments.

  • Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office and CMMS systems.

Minimum Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED required.

  • Associate degree or technical certificate in electrical, mechanical, or maintenance technology preferred.

  • Minimum of 6 years of hands-on industrial maintenance experience
    (or 4 years with a relevant technical degree)

  • Demonstrated expertise in:

    • PLC/Automation Systems

    • Electrical/Controls

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Food manufacturing or packaging industry experience.

  • Familiarity with GMP, HACCP, and SQF regulations and audits.

  • Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.

  • Forklift certification or ability to become certified.

 


What We Offer

  • Paid vacation — we believe in rest and recharge

  • Perfect attendance bonus — because showing up matters

  • Medical, dental & vision insurance — your health comes first

  • 401(k) — invest in your future

  • A team-oriented environment where your skills are valued and your voice is heard


Work where tradition meets innovation.
Come be part of something sweet — literally and figuratively. At Piedmont Candy Co., we care about our products, our people, and our purpose.

 

Piedmont Candy is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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