PLC Programmer & Industrial Technician

About DECCO:

DECCO, an Advanta company is the global leader in providing postharvest solutions to reduce food waste and enhance the freshness of fresh fruits and vegetables all along the food supply chain.  DECCO delivers value every day to packers, shippers, supermarkets and consumers with customized coating, decay control, sanitization and disinfection products, application technology, on-site service and almost 90 years of postharvest expertise.  Our 200+ dedicated DECCO employees operate in over 40 countries. 

Our purpose is to enable more and better Fresh Food for the world. More. Beautiful. Fresh

Job Summary:

The PLC Programmer will lead the creation and management of PLC programs for Decco industrial automation systems and be a key part of implementing our digital transformation for both internal and external customers. As an Industrial Technician, the role is aimed to support with innovation, design, building, installation, and maintenance of DECCO equipment and control systems. Utilize personal skills and aptitude to enhance Decco deliverables to customers and improve digitalization excellence.      

JOb Responsibilities:

PLC Programming

• Develop, write, and implement PLC software using ladder logic, structured text, and function block diagrams. Ability to learn multiple platforms as needed.

PLC Support

• Test systems for efficiency, reliability, and safety. Troubleshoot and debug PLC systems to resolve operational issues. Proficiency in interpreting and creating electrical schematics.

Performance Metrics

• Success will be measured by system uptime, error rates, timely project completion, and effectiveness of PLC programs in meeting operational goals. Continuous learning and staying up to date with current trends and practices.

Collaboration/Support

• Collaborate with technicians, managers, and customers to integrate PLC systems into production processes. Provide technical support and training to clients and internal teams to properly operate equipment.

Innovation/Strategy:

• Identify trends, anomalies, and opportunities for improvement.  Drive continual improvement by supporting the design, development, and deployment of updated equipment and technological systems. Contribute to the development of strategies for the organization and able to incorporate equipment and service in the strategic agenda.

Fabrication/Maintenance

• Help with the construction, assembly, and proper use of all equipment and controls. Assist with maintaining all systems in good working order and functional for their designed purpose.

Documentation

• Provide design schematics, program documentation, installation protocols, and troubleshooting guides.

REQUIRED EDUCATION, SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND EXPERIENCE:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, Industrial Technology, or a related field; OR 1–3 years of experience in electrical systems, controls, automation, or related technical work.
• Foundational knowledge of PLC concepts or basic exposure to programming (coursework, projects, or work experience).
• Strong problem‑solving skills and a willingness to learn new platforms and technologies.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with standard computer applications.
• Valid driver’s license.

PREFERRED SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND EXPERIENCE:

• Industrial Networking
• HMI/SCADA Development
• Database Integration
• Process Control

Reports to: Industrial Technology Manager & Service Lead

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Number of direct reports – 0

• Number of indirect reports – 0

• Budget responsibilities – Aligned with Business Unit

Travel: Occasional travel to support customers, call on prospects, attend industry events and company meetings.

Location: Yakima, WA or Wenatchee, WA areas

KEY COMPETENCIES:  

CUSTOMER FOCUS – Ability to building strong customer relationships and delivering customer-centric solutions

CULTIVATES INNOVATION - Thinks creatively and implements solutions for everyday problems; Strives to continually improve own processes and areas of business; Puts forward proposals and develops strategic implementation plans to introduce new and improved ways of operating.

RESOURCEFULNESS – Identifying, Securing & Deploying resources effectively & efficiently (People, funds, infrastructure) to accomplish business goals.