Automation Technician

Red River Commodities processes sunflowers and select other specialty crop agricultural products to create food ingredients and wildlife products. We contract directly with local growers to provide the freshest possible grains at the best possible prices and our processing facilities are in the heart of sunflower seed and grain-growing regions. Our team shares core values focused on family, pride, passion, and integrity. We work hard, play harder, embrace authenticity, and always support one another to achieve our goals.

Summary:

The Automation Technician will be responsible for maintaining the performance of all automated and robotic equipment in our Horace facility. The Automation/ Packaging Controls Technician will report directly to the Maintenance Manager with primary focus to optimize production, identify process improvements, through the application and maintenance of electronic control systems and robotics. This individual must have a 2-year technical degree in an applicable technical field.

Job Responsibilities: Other duties may be assigned. 

• Work closely with Production Management and Plant Maintenance teams to optimize the overall performance of the facility through electronic controls, automation, and robotics
• Study control systems architecture and plant systems to become thoroughly familiar with the function of the plant
• Assess the current status of electronic controls throughout the facility
• Address deficiencies in programing, execution, condition, or operator training to optimize production throughput and quality
• Troubleshoot and implement corrective actions for PLCS, robotics, VFDs and automation systems within the plant
• Provide input on the long-term maintenance strategy and system upgrades for capital projects.
• Implement automation improvement projects.
• Perform general maintenance tasks on electrical equipment up to 480V.
• Train operators on automation systems.
• Develop sufficient proficiency in Lock Out Tag Out policies to serve as a qualified person.
• Establish a processing data collection system to support production OEE or KPI reporting processes.
• Other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. 

• Associates Degree in a relevant technical field preferred
• Certification in PLC maintenance or programming.
• Pro-active self-starter
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously
• Demonstrate ability to communicate well and to effectively influence and interact with others to accomplish goals.
• Problem solving skills
• Food processing or agricultural background
• Journeyman electricians license preferred
• Good work ethic and team/collaboration skills.
• Knowledge/experience with, Standard Operating Procedure, and Quality Management System.

Benefits:

• Competitive pay
• Paid time off
• Paid Holidays
• Medical, dental & vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Short & long term disability insurance
• 401k & company match
• Ongoing job skills, learning and advancement opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program

Red River Commodities and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. This applies to all employment practices within our organization. Red River Commodities makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.