Automation Tech

Perform Technical duties in the programming, and creation of machines and other mechanically or electronically functioning equipment. Work in a hands-on environment as needed to fabricate parts, wire controls, and program automation. Apply expertise to creatively solve problems. Will be responsible for assisting with project planning, research and development, prototyping, testing, integration, and release to customer of new and improvements to existing automation and equipment.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Implement automation control systems, electromechanical systems, PLCs or other electronics as required.
• Implement system components or modify products to ensure conformance with engineering design and performance specifications.
• Diagnose equipment failures and consumer difficulties to support existing automation.
• Conduct feasibility studies and other design tests to analyze the operation and performance of equipment, components, or systems.
• Work effectively with other personnel in a group or individually to implement operating procedures, resolve system malfunctions, and provide technical information.
• Implement control apparatus and equipment using 3D printing or other rapid prototyping techniques.
• Test models of alternate designs and processing methods to assess feasibility, operating condition effects, possible new applications and necessity of modification.
• Assist in estimating costs and submitting bids for engineering, automation, or other projects.
• Provide feedback to management concerning current projects and other needs.
• Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, or computer-generated reports.
• Research and analyze customer design proposals, specifications, manuals, or other data to evaluate the feasibility, cost, or maintenance requirements of designs or applications.
• Research, evaluate, install, operate, and maintain mechanical products, equipment, systems and processes to meet requirements.
• Layout and draw schematic, orthographic, or angle views to depict functional relationships of components, assemblies, systems and machines.
• Work with Vendors to obtain products, prototypes, samples, schematics, product information and other materials pertaining to new and existing designs.
• Layout, draw, or reproduce illustrations for reference manuals and technical publications to describe operation and maintenance of automation systems.
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Technical Certificate in welding, electronics, robotics, or related fields preferred.
• 3-5 years of experience in hands-on machinery building, maintaining, or technical support is preferred.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and other common software is required.
• Comfortable working with controls wiring, programming concepts, and Logic.
• Experience operating fabrication equipment, assembling machinery, and wiring low voltage systems is required.
• Experience in layout and connection of electrical controls preferred.
• Experience in programming and use of automation, Arduino, or robotics preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge:

• Mechanical - Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
• Electronics – Knowledge of electrical principles, including circuits, controls wiring, and terminology.
• Mathematics - Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, and geometry; and their applications.

Skills: 

• Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to evaluate options and implement solutions.
• Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
• Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
• Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

Abilities:

• Information Ordering - The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
• Deductive Reasoning - The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
• Written Comprehension - The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
• Near Vision - The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
• Problem Sensitivity - The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.

Working Conditions

• Office duties will be performed in a well-lighted, climate-controlled facility.
• Shop responsibilities will be accomplished in an indoor environment without air conditioning.
• Temperatures will vary based upon seasonal changes traditional to the Wichita area.

Physical Requirements

The ability to hear and speak clearly enough to interact appropriately with others in person and on the telephone. Twisting, bending, walking, lifting, stooping, stretching and the occasional lifting not to exceed 70 pounds.