Sr Controls Technician

As part of Richardson’s global agriculture and food business, our food and ingredients division plays a central role in connecting farm to table through our vertically integrated supply chain. As a leading pasta manufacturer, Richardson produces a wide range of high-quality dry pasta products for diverse markets and end uses.

Richardson provides an excellent compensation package consisting of a competitive salary, flexible benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, paid holidays, and training and career development opportunities.

Working with Richardson opens the door to a world of possibility. We currently have an opportunity for a Senior Controls Technician at our Winchester, VA pasta production facility, where we produce Ronzoni pasta.

Responsibilities:

  • Diagnose and resolve complex automation and control system issues affecting safety, quality, uptime, and production.

  • Design, improve, and maintain automation systems using preventive maintenance and root cause analysis to minimize downtime.

  • Lead engineering updates, changes, testing, and commissioning of automation modifications for multiple high-speed production lines

  • Train, coach, and mentor operators, maintenance technicians, and peers on automation systems and procedures

  • Lead and support special projects related to automation upgrades, retrofits, and new equipment installations

Qualifications:

  • Associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, Mechatronics, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience

  • Minimum 5 years of experience in industrial automation or controls within a manufacturing environment (food or high-speed packaging preferred)

  • Strong knowledge of control panel design, layout, and troubleshooting

  • Extensive experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs, VFDs, and HMIs

  • Hands-on experience with SCADA systems

  • Proven ability to communicate effectively and resolve issues across multiple departments and organizational levels

  • Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.

  • Ability to read and interpret electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic schematics

  • Demonstrated capability to act as a technical leader and trainer

  • Strong understanding of automation, instrumentation, and control products and related engineering principles

  • Familiarity with automation suppliers and OEM equipment

Physical Requirements:

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the following physical job requirements, with or without reasonable accommodation:

  • Walk, stand, crouch, lift (in excess of 60 pounds), twist, climb, reach, and grasp for 6+ hours per shift

  • Work in hot, humid, and cold manufacturing environments

  • Work in confined or crowded spaces for extended periods

  • Bend, crawl, and climb ladders for extended durations