Job Title:
Automation Technician
Company: The Davis Companies
Location: Suwanee, GA
Created: 2026-05-09
Job Type: Full Time
Job Description:
We are seeking a skilled Automation Technician with strong expertise in electrical panel wiring and low-voltage automation systems. This role focuses primarily on the installation, wiring, troubleshooting, and light programming of PLC-based control systems. The ideal candidate will excel at building and maintaining control panels, running low-voltage wiring, and supporting automated machinery and processes in a manufacturing environment.Key ResponsibilitiesBuild, wire, and assemble industrial control panels, including mounting PLCs, power supplies, relays, terminal blocks, and low-voltage components.Perform point-to-point wiring of low-voltage control circuits (24VDC, 120VAC, analog signals, Ethernet, and communication cables).Install and terminate sensors, proximity switches, photo eyes, encoders, solenoids, and other field devices.Execute light PLC programming, modifications, and troubleshooting (primarily ladder logic) using Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent platforms.Diagnose and repair electrical and control system issues on automated equipment to minimize downtime.Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, and control drawings.Route and organize control wiring neatly according to industry standards and best practices.Perform preventive maintenance on control panels, PLCs, HMIs, and low-voltage automation components.Support the installation and commissioning of new automation equipment and system upgrades.Troubleshoot and maintain industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profinet, etc.).Maintain accurate documentation of panel wiring, as-built drawings, PLC programs, and program backups.Ensure all work complies with electrical safety standards, NEC, NFPA 70E, and company safety policies.Assist with training operators and junior technicians on basic control system operations and troubleshooting.Participate in continuous improvement projects related to automation reliability and electrical system efficiency.Required QualificationsAssociate's degree or technical diploma in Electrical Technology, Automation Technology, Mechatronics, or a related field.3+ years of hands-on experience in industrial electrical control systems, panel building, and low-voltage wiring.Strong proficiency in electrical panel wiring, control panel assembly, and low-voltage terminations.Practical experience with PLC systems (Allen-Bradley Studio 5000 / RSLogix or Siemens TIA Portal preferred).Solid understanding of low-voltage control circuits, relay logic, analog and digital I/O, and field devices.Ability to read and work from electrical schematics, panel layout drawings, and wiring diagrams.Familiarity with industrial communication protocols and networking for automation systems.Experience using multimeters, cable testers, and other electrical diagnostic tools.Strong attention to detail with excellent organizational skills for wiring and documentation.Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.Preferred SkillsExperience building UL-listed or CE-rated control panels.Basic HMI configuration and troubleshooting.Knowledge of servo drives, VFDs, or motion control systems.Previous work in packaging, material handling, food processing, or light manufacturing environments.AutoCAD Electrical, SolidWorks, or other CAD software.Physical RequirementsAbility to lift up to 50 lbs. and move control panels when necessary.Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, dust, and temperature variations.Ability to climb ladders, bend, kneel, and work in tight spaces for panel installation and wiring.