Automation Technician

What you'll do

As an Automation Technician, you will be responsible for executing industrial electrical installations and automation systems within our simulation laboratory. Your main tasks will include wiring and commissioning of equipment such as motors, gearmotors, compressors, fans, centrifugal pumps, and custom test benches, using components like VFDs, soft starters, and other standard industrial devices. You will ensure these systems are installed safely and operate reliably under test conditions.

Beyond installation, you will play a central role in automating and securing test environments. This includes programming inverters for automatic speed and load control, developing motor control strategies for simulating dynamometers, implementing safety triggers and interlocks, and designing control systems for new or upgraded test benches. You’ll be expected to diagnose and resolve automation issues, continuously improving the efficiency and safety of our lab operations.

You’ll also support the optimization of our data acquisition systems, integrating and maintaining Tractian sensors, DAQs, vibration analyzers, thermal cameras, and commercial process sensors (e.g., flow, pressure, torque, temperature). While your core focus is electrical and automation, you’ll occasionally assist in mechanical setups and other lab operations. This position demands hands-on experience in industrial automation, strong diagnostic skills, and a solid understanding of safety protocols, documentation practices, and cross-functional collaboration.

Responsibilities:

• Execute electrical installations of industrial machines and test benches, including motors, gearmotors, fans, compressors, and pumps using VFDs, soft starters, and other industrial control components.
• Design and implement automation logic for test setups, such as motor speed/load control, test cycle automation, and programmable safety shutdown systems.
• Program and configure VFDs and industrial controllers to automate test procedures and simulate varying operating conditions.
• Diagnose and resolve issues in control panels, automated systems, and test bench wiring.
• Implement and maintain safety systems, including interlocks, emergency shutdown triggers, and logic-based protections to ensure personnel and equipment safety.
• Integrate and optimize data acquisition systems, including Tractian sensors, DAQs, thermal cameras, vibration analyzers, and commercial sensors for key process variables such as vibration, temperature, pressure, flow, torque, electrical current, voltage, power, rotational speed (RPM), level, and humidity.
• Support the design and improvement of control systems for new and existing test benches, in collaboration with engineering and data science teams.
• Assist with mechanical operations when necessary, including setup, alignment, or support tasks for test procedures.
• Maintain accurate documentation of installations, system configurations, failures, and repair actions.
• Follow and promote strict safety standards, preventive maintenance practices, and continuous lab improvement.

Requirements:

• Technical degree or certification in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Automation, Electrotechnics, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Proven hands-on experience with electrical installations, industrial automation, and machine control systems.
• Familiarity with VFDs, soft starters, control panels, and standard industrial electrical components.
• Ability to program automation logic, including motor control, safety interlocks, and test sequencing.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP, 4–20 mA, 0–10 V) and PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Schneider Electric).
• Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis (RCA) skills in automation and control systems.
• Background in industrial sectors such as food & beverage, oil & gas, pulp & paper, chemical, automotive, mining, or heavy manufacturing.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
• Strong understanding of safety protocols, lockout/tagout procedures, and industrial risk mitigation.
• Good communication skills for reporting failures, writing documentation, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience working with data acquisition systems and sensors for variables like vibration, temperature, pressure, flow, torque, voltage, and current.
• Willingness to support mechanical operations and general lab activities when required.

Bonus Points:

• Knowledge of SCADA systems, HMI configuration, and remote monitoring of industrial setups.
• Understanding of NR safety standards (e.g., NR-10, NR-12) and their practical application in machine installations and test benches.
• Background in industrial panel building, including layout design, wiring, and electrical protection systems.
• Experience with dynamic test environments, where automation must respond to variable conditions or simulate failure modes.
• Experience with programming languages commonly used in automation and data handling, such as Python, Node-RED, or LabVIEW, for tasks like test orchestration, data logging, or integration of smart controls.
• Ability to implement sensor fusion strategies combining data from multiple sources for smarter control or safety actions.
• Exposure to R&D environments, prototyping, or pilot-scale industrial systems where flexibility and quick adaptation are required.