gpac | The Recruitment Platform

Automation Controls Technician in Rockford

Date Posted: 13 May 2026

Job Snapshot

Job Description

Ready to power up your career with a highly automated, industry-leading manufacturing operation?

This opportunity is with a stable and growing food manufacturer known for its investment in advanced technology, modern equipment, and long-term employee growth. The facility features state-of-the-art automation, robotics, PLC systems, VFDs, and machine vision technology.

As an Automation Controls Technician, you’ll play a key role in keeping advanced production systems operating at peak performance while working alongside a collaborative maintenance and operations team.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

  • Flexible rotating schedule — work only 14 days per month
  • Relocation assistance available
  • Large, modern manufacturing facility
  • Advanced automation and robotics environment
  • Cross-functional exposure with maintenance, engineering, and production
  • Stable and growing manufacturer
  • Competitive pay and strong benefits package
  • Opportunity to make a direct impact on plant performance and continuous improvement initiatives

Pay & Schedule

  • Additional $2.00/hour shift differential for PM shift
  • 12-hour night shifts
  • 2-2-every-other-weekend rotating schedule

Key Responsibilities

  • Troubleshoot and repair PLCs, VFDs, HMIs, and automation systems
  • Program, configure, and support Allen Bradley controls systems
  • Support robotics and machine vision systems including Cognex and Keyence
  • Implement and validate automation upgrades and system improvements
  • Read and interpret electrical schematics, process diagrams, and mechanical drawings
  • Maintain backups and documentation for control systems and automation changes
  • Work closely with production and maintenance teams to maximize uptime and throughput
  • Support preventive maintenance and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Ensure compliance with safety, GMP, and food safety standards

Qualifications

  • Strong experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting
  • Experience with Allen Bradley PLCs and VFDs
  • Knowledge of HMI development and remote I/O systems
  • Strong electrical troubleshooting skills up to 480V
  • Ability to troubleshoot complex automation systems
  • Technical degree or equivalent hands-on automation experience preferred
  • Food manufacturing experience is a plus

Benefits

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Flex Spending Account
  • Short & Long-Term Disability
  • Life Insurance
  • EAP Program
  • 401(k)
  • Health benefits eligibility after 60 days
  • 401(k) eligibility after 30 days

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys advanced automation, problem-solving, and working in a highly technical manufacturing environment with long-term stability and growth potential.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.

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