MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN – AUTOMATION & CONTROLS
Location: AISIN Manufacturing Illinois (AMI)
GENERAL SUMMARY
As a Maintenance Technician – Automation & Controls, you will be responsible for
maintaining, troubleshooting, programming, and improving advanced manufacturing
equipment and facility systems. This role focuses heavily on automation,
PLC-based control systems, robotics support, industrial networking, and
data-driven troubleshooting, in addition to traditional mechanical and
electrical maintenance.
You will play a critical role in minimizing downtime, improving system
reliability, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives by analyzing
machine behavior, modifying control logic, and implementing automation
enhancements. This position requires strong technical judgment, programming
capability, and the ability to work independently in high-pressure production
environments.
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PRINCIPAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
* Execute daily work assignments provided by the Team Leader or supervisor
* Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on automated manufacturing
equipment and facility systems
* Troubleshoot and repair PLC-controlled machinery, including I/O, sensors,
safety devices, drives, and motion systems
* Modify, test, and validate PLC logic, HMI screens, and control parameters
following change-management procedures
* Diagnose and resolve issues involving VFDs, servos, encoders, vision systems,
and safety PLCs
* Support and troubleshoot robotic systems (industrial robots, end-of-arm
tooling, and safety interlocks)
* Maintain and troubleshoot industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, Profinet,
DeviceNet, IO-Link, etc.)
* Assist with new equipment installation, commissioning, and automation
upgrades
* Analyze machine performance data to identify root causes and recommend
long-term countermeasures
* Collaborate with Engineering, IT, and Production teams on automation
improvements and system optimization
* Ensure all work complies with safety standards, including lockout/tagout and
electrical safety requirements
* Document all maintenance activities, programming changes, and system updates
* Communicate equipment status, risks, and corrective actions clearly to
leadership and production teams
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SKILLS & ABILITIES
* Advanced troubleshooting skills across electrical, controls, automation, and
mechanical systems
* Strong understanding of PLC architecture, ladder logic, structured text, and
function block programming
* Experience programming and troubleshooting PLC platforms such as
Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent
* Ability to develop, modify, and troubleshoot HMI applications
* Proficiency with VFDs, servo drives, motion control, and safety circuits
* Knowledge of robotics systems, including basic programming, fault recovery,
and safety integration
* Familiarity with industrial networking, communication protocols, and
diagnostics
* Ability to interpret electrical schematics, control drawings, and technical
documentation
* Strong analytical and decision-making skills related to automation failures
and system improvements
* Effective record-keeping and documentation skills for maintenance and
programming activities
* Ability to train or support team members on equipment operation and
automation concepts
* Strong verbal and written communication skills for cross-functional
collaboration
* Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and respond effectively to
emergency situations
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MINIMUM LEVEL OF PREPARATION & TRAINING
* Associate degree (2-year) in Automation, Mechatronics, Industrial Technology,
Electrical Engineering Technology, or related field or equivalent hands-on
experience
* PLC troubleshooting and programming experience required
* Experience with automation systems in a manufacturing environment strongly
preferred
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DISCLAIMER
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed in
this role and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties,
responsibilities, or requirements.
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BENEFITS OVERVIEW
AISIN offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee
health, financial security, and professional growth, including:
* Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
* Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
* Retirement Savings Plan
* Sickness and Accident Coverage
* Life Insurance
* Paid Vacation and Holidays
* Tuition Assistance and Technical Training Programs
* Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
* Vehicle Purchase Discounts
* And more
Qualifications
The above intended to describe the general content of and requirement for the
performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement
of duties, responsibilities, or requirements.