Automation Support Engineer / Controls Technician (IB4)
                        Houston, TX                    
                                
                    Full Time                
                                
                    Experienced                
            
                    JOB FUNCTION:             
Provide front-line technical support for automated production lines, robotics, and material-handling systems.
Assist Automation Engineers in maintaining reliable system performance through recipe setup, HMI diagnostics, preventive maintenance, and coordination with Production, Maintenance, and Quality teams.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
 
Experience:
                
                Provide front-line technical support for automated production lines, robotics, and material-handling systems.
Assist Automation Engineers in maintaining reliable system performance through recipe setup, HMI diagnostics, preventive maintenance, and coordination with Production, Maintenance, and Quality teams.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Monitor line performance, respond to alarms and stoppages, and restore safe material flow and throughput.
 - Perform first-response troubleshooting of PLCs, HMIs, sensors, actuators, and cabling; escalate complex issues to Automation Engineers.
 - Support recipe setup, testing, and validation for product changeovers and ensure compliance with approved parameters.
 - Verify proper operation of robotic systems, conveyors, and automated load/unload sequences (AMR/RGV).
 - Conduct preventive inspections and routine maintenance on automation components (I/O modules, VFDs, HMIs, sensors).
 - Maintain accurate documentation of system faults, repairs, and PM findings.
 - Assist in implementing software and firmware updates as directed by Automation Engineering.
 - Support FAT/SAT testing, commissioning, and integration activities for new automation installations.
 - Participate in root cause analysis (RCA) for recurring downtime events.
 - Maintain organized backup files, version logs, and configuration documentation.
 - Collaborate closely with Maintenance and Production to ensure minimal disruption and consistent operation.
 - Provide feedback and recommendations for improving equipment reliability and operator usability.
 - Train operators on proper HMI operation, alarm acknowledgment, and recovery procedures.
 
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
- Technical diploma/certificate in mechatronics, industrial maintenance, or related field; or equivalent experience.
 
Experience:
- 2+ years in automated manufacturing, machine maintenance, or controls support environment (assembly, packaging, or process automation preferred).
 - Experience working with sensors/actuators, basic pneumatics, mechanical assemblies, and line resets.
 
- Strong mechanical/electrical troubleshooting; safe LOTO practices.
 - Proficient with hand tools, multimeters, and basic measurement tools; reads simple electrical/mechanical prints.
 - Comfortable working via HMI/front-end (acknowledging alarms, verifying I/O states).
 - Reliable documentation habits; clear communication with Engineers, Production, and Quality.
 - Clear verbal/written communication; organized task and time management.
 - Strong teamwork and cross-department collaboration skills.
 
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