PLC Programmer

COMPANY OVERVIEW

At Harvest Food Group (HFG), our mission is to create products that make a positive impact on the world. HFG is a private equity–backed company headquartered in Naperville, Illinois, with a brand-new, state-of-the-art production facility in East Chicago, Indiana.

JOB SUMMARY

The Maintenance Programmer supports facility operations by programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and related control systems. This role requires strong technical expertise across both software and hardware aspects of industrial automation while ensuring compliance with OSHA, GMP, and HACCP food safety standards. The Maintenance Programmer plays a critical role in minimizing downtime, improving system reliability, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Automation & Controls

• Design, write, test, and implement PLC programs (e.g., Allen-Bradley ControlLogix, CompactLogix)

• Develop and maintain HMI/SCADA applications (e.g., Wonderware) to support production requirements

Troubleshooting & Maintenance

• Diagnose and repair electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and control system issues to minimize production interruptions

• Perform preventive maintenance (PMs) and equipment inspections to identify and address potential failures

Installation & Commissioning

• Collaborate with Engineering and Production teams to install, commission, and start up new equipment and automation systems

• Support system upgrades and expansions, including field wiring and validation

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, software changes, backups, and electrical schematics

• Ensure all work complies with OSHA regulations, GMPs, and HACCP requirements

Continuous Improvement

• Monitor system performance and analyze KPIs to identify opportunities for automation enhancements

• Recommend and implement process improvements, upgrades, and optimization initiatives

Training & Support

• Provide technical training and ongoing support to operations and maintenance personnel

• Assist with knowledge transfer related to automated systems and new equipment

Requirements

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

• 3–5 years of PLC Programming experience required

• High school diploma or equivalent required

• Technical diploma or certification in industrial maintenance, automation, or electrical systems preferred

• Ability to read and write in English

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred

Technical & Functional Skills

• Proficiency in PLC programming, setup, and troubleshooting

• Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills

• Ability to read and interpret electrical diagrams, schematics, and blueprints

• Moderate knowledge of safety regulations and safe work practices

• Experienced knowledge of Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) systems

Industry Knowledge

• Understanding of food processing and manufacturing equipment, including:

  • HTST systems

  • CIP systems

  • Conveyors and pumps

  • Packaging machinery

• Prior experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment required

• Food or beverage manufacturing experience strongly preferred

Problem-Solving & Collaboration

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify root causes and implement corrective and preventive actions

• Effective communication skills to collaborate with Production, Quality Assurance, Engineering, and Sanitation teams

• Demonstrated teamwork and reliability in a fast-paced production environment

Benefits

Benefits

WHY JOIN US?

• Direct Hire with full benefits, PTO and 401K Match

• Play a key role in the launch of a next-generation facility 

• Work with a collaborative and innovation-driven team 

• Help deliver high-quality, safe, and delicious food products to consumers 

• Contribute to the future of food manufacturing through automation and sustainability