Company Overview Stella-Jones is North America's leading producer of industrial pressure-treated wood products. Responding to the vital infrastructure needs of our economy, we manufacture and distribute railway ties, utility poles, residential lumber and industrial wood products across the United States and Canada. To learn more about the company, visit us at:
Position Overview: The
Automation Technician at Stella-Jones is responsible for supporting and enhancing industrial automation systems across U.S. manufacturing facilities, focusing on efficient and reliable operations through hands-on technical expertise. Core tasks include programming and troubleshooting PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, and other automated equipment to ensure seamless operational flow and minimize downtime. Working both independently and within our growing team, the Automation Technician will execute system modifications, update firmware, and guide contractors as needed. The Automation Tech will also contribute to system improvements, including cybersecurity initiatives, and conduct site visits to perform wiring and other essential tasks that keep equipment in peak condition.
This is a newly created, remote role to be home-based in the Southeastern United States (ideally TX, LA, AR, MS, AL, or GA). The position involves approximately up to 35% travel to various Stella-Jones manufacturing plants in the US and Canada to maintain, troubleshoot, and enhance automation systems.
Key Responsibilities: - Programming PLC,SCADA, HMI; Mostly Rockwell products
- Troubleshooting PLC, SCADA, VFD, Instruments, Network and more
- Support operations, sequence modifications, recipes, etc.
- Support engineering during process modifications
- Travel to facilities to assess equipment, modify system or calibrate
- Plan and guide contractors during system modifications (adding instruments, changing pumps, changing valves, replacing obsolete components)
- Participate in the continuous improvement of networks and cybersecurity
- Be aware of new available product, participate in continuous improvement
- Plan system migration and work on reducing shutdowns
- Migrate system and update Firmware
Potential project involvement in 2025 may include: - Wood optimizer development
- Cybersecurity system deployment
- Complete SCADA migration
Qualifications: - Five (5) or more years of related experience in manufacturing automation
- Programming knowledge with LADDER, FONCTION BLOCK, SFC
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Excellent knowledge of industrial processes
- Ability to read and understand P&ID
- SQL knowledge a plus
- Knowledge in wood industries processes a plus
- Valid passport (for travel to Canada)
Employee Benefits: As a Stella-Jones team member, you will have access to excellent benefits and incentives including:
- Comprehensive total benefits package with 3 medical plans to choose from
- Several company-paid benefits including:
- Dental and Vision coverage
- Life insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) policies
- Long-Term Disability Coverage
- Access to a robust employee assistance program
- Competitive compensation
- Annual bonus program opportunity
- 401(k) savings plan with generous Company match (150% on the first 4% deferred)
- 2 weeks paid vacation and 9 holidays
- Career advancement opportunities
- Ability to purchase Company stock
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled