Overview
Underwood Ammunition is a leading manufacturer of premium ammunition, firearms, and accessories. We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Automation Technician who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on manufacturing environment. This role involves advanced technical leadership while engaging directly with production equipment and supporting day-to-day operations on the factory floor.
Responsibilities
- Lead end-to-end implementation of automation and manufacturing upgrades, including system design, mechanical / electrical integration, and field installation.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate production needs into practical automation solutions.
- Perform daily hands-on troubleshooting, calibration, and adjustments on automation equipment, conveyors, robotics, and precision manufacturing systems.
- Support machine setup, tool changes, and configuration for production batches.
- Respond to production line disruptions and ensure minimal downtime through quick intervention and root cause analysis.
- Work closely with operators and shift supervisors to monitor equipment performance, resolve issues on the floor, and maintain optimal production throughput.
- Proactively assist with mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical repairs as needed during daily manufacturing activities.
- Support the assembly, wiring, and testing of new control panels and machine components.
- Ensure that automation support, machine availability, and technical interventions align with the daily and weekly manufacturing priority schedule.
- Partner with production leadership to proactively adjust automation or equipment configurations in response to shifting priorities and order demands.
- Integrate and maintain smart manufacturing systems, including robotic arms, motion control, machine vision systems, and programmable logic systems.
- Apply Industry 4.0 techniques to enhance real-time monitoring, machine learning-driven diagnostics, and overall system intelligence.
- Execute and refine preventative maintenance plans in collaboration with the maintenance team.
- Utilize sensor data and diagnostic tools to identify potential failures and reduce unplanned downtime.
- Provide on-the-job training and shadowing opportunities for junior technicians and machine operators.
- Educate shop-floor teams on equipment operation, safety best practices, and troubleshooting procedures.
- Verify that automated systems are producing within tolerance and quality standards.
- Make mechanical or software adjustments to maintain precision and minimize scrap rates.
- Maintain maintenance logs, wiring diagrams, PLC logic records, and project documentation.
- Report recurring issues and work closely with engineering to implement design improvements.
Qualifications
Education : Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Automation, Mechatronics, Manufacturing Technology, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.Experience : 5+ years of hands-on experience in a high-volume or precision manufacturing setting with exposure to industrial automation and equipment repair.Technical Proficiency : Deep experience with Allen-Bradley / Siemens PLCs, HMIs, robotics, pneumatics, sensors, motor controls, and troubleshooting production machinery.Manual Dexterity & Physical Endurance : Comfortable working with tools, lifting parts, climbing ladders, and spending significant time on the shop floor.Problem-Solving & Initiative : Strong ability to think critically and act swiftly under pressure to minimize downtime.Teamwork : Ability to work closely with operations, quality control, engineering, and maintenance teams in a collaborative, high-performance environment.Additional Information
This role is 75% hands-on with daily floor presence required in production areas.Occasional travel may be required for equipment vendor visits or training.Compensation and benefits will be discussed during the interview process.Job Type : Full-time
Pay : $28.00 - $45.00 per hour
401(k)401(k) matchingHealth insuranceLife insurancePaid time offRelocation assistanceVision insuranceSchedule :
8 hour shiftDay shiftMonday to FridayAbility to Commute :
Sparta, IL 62286 (Required)Ability to Relocate :
Sparta, IL 62286 Relocate before starting work (Required)Work Location : In-person
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