Jobs at Western Sugar Cooperative (Now Hiring) — 6 open

Position Title: Electromechanical Technician

Position Overview: The Electromechanical Technician is responsible for the setup, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of complex automated systems and machinery located in the packaging and warehouse areas of the factory. This role requires a solid understanding of mechanical systems, electrical circuits, and computer control systems. The technician will work with engineers and other technicians to ensure equipment operates efficiently, safely, and within specified tolerances.

Essential Functions:

• Live our Core Values of: Being a Safety Leader, Integrity, Openness & Trust, Teamwork, Entrepreneurship, and Social Responsibility.
• Safety Compliance: Follow all safety protocols and regulatory requirements for handling electrical and mechanical equipment and ensure that systems operate within safe parameters.
• Installation and Setup: Install and configure electromechanical systems and automated machinery, including sensors, actuators, valves, robotic arms, conveyor systems, and other automated equipment.
• Machine Maintenance: Performs routine and preventive maintenance on packaging and warehouse equipment, such as conveyor belts, conveyor rollers, baggers, fillers, sealers, labelers, printers, sealers, and wrapping machines. Maintains and repairs piping, screw conveyors, bucket elevators, and any equipment moving raw product and finished goods.
• Troubleshooting: Diagnose and repair faults in machinery, electrical systems, and control systems. Use diagnostic tools to identify and resolve issues in hardware and software.
• Programming and Calibration: Program and calibrate controllers, sensors, and actuators to ensure proper operation of automated systems. Modify machine code or control parameters as necessary.
• System Upgrades: Assist with upgrades to existing systems to improve efficiency, integrate new technologies, and ensure compatibility with modern automation standards.
• Documentation: Utilize Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) to keep detailed records of all maintenance activities, repairs, and system upgrades. Maintain wiring diagrams, machine manuals, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Collaboration: Work closely with engineers, production teams, and other technicians to address complex issues and ensure system uptime.

Skill & Experience Requirements:

• Friendly, results-oriented, and collaborative
• Education: Associate’s degree or diploma in Electromechanical, Mechatronics, Robotics, Electronics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent experience in electromechanical/mechatronics may be considered.
• Experience: 2+ years of experience working with automated systems, robotics, and industrial machinery is highly preferred. Familiarity with PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) and control systems is highly preferred.

Technical Skills:

• Proficient in electrical wiring, circuit design, and troubleshooting.
• Experience with mechanical systems, pneumatics, hydraulics, and robotics.
• Familiarity with automation software (e.g., PLC programming, SCADA, HMI).
• Understanding of sensors, actuators, and motion control systems.
• Problem-Solving: Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills with the ability to resolve complex technical issues quickly and effectively.
• Communication: Ability to communicate technical issues and solutions clearly to both technical and non-technical personnel.
• Attention to Detail: Careful attention to machine specifications and tolerances, ensuring systems are running efficiently and safely.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to work in a manufacturing or industrial environment, including standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and working with heavy machinery and equipment.

Work Environment:

• Works in an industrial environment, including manufacturing plants, packaging, or warehouses.
• Works within a rotating shift or shift operations, which may include irregular hours and weekends.
• Use of protective equipment (PPE) is required due to exposure to electrical, mechanical, and environmental hazards.
• Essential hand tools are required.

Working Relationship:

• Reports to Maintenance Supervisor

Employment Requirements:

• Must be 18 years of age or older.

Travel Requirements, if any (please indicate percentage):

• Minimal, for training purposes.

Position Type:

• Status: Union Hourly

It is the policy of The Western Sugar Cooperative not to discriminate against any employee or any applicant for employment because of age, race, religion, color, handicap, sex, physical condition, developmental disability, sexual orientation or national origin. This policy shall include, but not be limited to, the following:  recruitment and employment, promotion, demotion, transfer, compensation, selection for training, layoff and termination.

Western Sugar Cooperative is a Drug Free workplace.