The Manufacturing Technician / Automation Technician is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, repairing, and improving automated production systems used in the manufacture of industrial explosive products. This position supports production operations by ensuring equipment reliability, optimizing automation systems, minimizing downtime, and maintaining compliance with all safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.

The ideal candidate has experience with industrial automation, electrical systems, controls, PLCs, instrumentation, and mechanical equipment in a manufacturing environment. A strong commitment to safety is essential due to the nature of explosive material production.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Automation & Controls

• Troubleshoot and repair PLC-controlled manufacturing equipment and automated systems.
• Diagnose issues involving sensors, motors, drives, actuators, HMI interfaces, and control systems.
• Maintain and modify PLC programs as directed by engineering and management.
• Install, calibrate, and troubleshoot instrumentation and process control devices.
• Support automation upgrades and capital improvement projects.
• Assist with implementation of continuous improvement initiatives to increase efficiency and equipment reliability.

Maintenance & Equipment Reliability

• Perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance on manufacturing equipment.
• Troubleshoot electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and mechanical systems.
• Respond to equipment breakdowns and restore operations in a timely manner.
• Maintain maintenance records, work orders, and equipment documentation.
• Participate in root cause analysis and corrective action activities.
• Assist in commissioning new equipment and validating equipment performance.

Production Support

• Work closely with production personnel to optimize equipment performance.
• Monitor manufacturing systems for operational issues and process deviations.
• Recommend improvements to increase uptime, productivity, and product quality.
• Support startup, shutdown, and changeover activities.
• Assist operators with technical troubleshooting and training.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all company safety procedures and explosive manufacturing regulations.
• Adhere to Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), confined space, hot work, and energy isolation requirements.
• Ensure all maintenance activities are performed safely and in accordance with established procedures.
• Participate in safety audits, inspections, and incident investigations.
• Maintain compliance with federal, state, local, and company environmental and safety requirements.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.