Location: AISIN Manufacturing Illinois (AMI)
As a Maintenance Technician – Automation & Controls, you will be responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, programming, and improving advanced manufacturing equipment and facility systems. This role focuses heavily on automation, PLC-based control systems, robotics support, industrial networking, and data-driven troubleshooting, in addition to traditional mechanical and electrical maintenance.
You will play a critical role in minimizing downtime, improving system reliability, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives by analyzing machine behavior, modifying control logic, and implementing automation enhancements. This position requires strong technical judgment, programming capability, and the ability to work independently in high-pressure production environments.
Execute daily work assignments provided by the Team Leader or supervisor
Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on automated manufacturing equipment and facility systems
Troubleshoot and repair PLC-controlled machinery, including I/O, sensors, safety devices, drives, and motion systems
Modify, test, and validate PLC logic, HMI screens, and control parameters following change-management procedures
Diagnose and resolve issues involving VFDs, servos, encoders, vision systems, and safety PLCs
Support and troubleshoot robotic systems (industrial robots, end-of-arm tooling, and safety interlocks)
Maintain and troubleshoot industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, DeviceNet, IO-Link, etc.)
Assist with new equipment installation, commissioning, and automation upgrades
Analyze machine performance data to identify root causes and recommend long-term countermeasures
Collaborate with Engineering, IT, and Production teams on automation improvements and system optimization
Ensure all work complies with safety standards, including lockout/tagout and electrical safety requirements
Document all maintenance activities, programming changes, and system updates
Communicate equipment status, risks, and corrective actions clearly to leadership and production teams
Advanced troubleshooting skills across electrical, controls, automation, and mechanical systems
Strong understanding of PLC architecture, ladder logic, structured text, and function block programming
Experience programming and troubleshooting PLC platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent
Ability to develop, modify, and troubleshoot HMI applications
Proficiency with VFDs, servo drives, motion control, and safety circuits
Knowledge of robotics systems, including basic programming, fault recovery, and safety integration
Familiarity with industrial networking, communication protocols, and diagnostics
Ability to interpret electrical schematics, control drawings, and technical documentation
Strong analytical and decision-making skills related to automation failures and system improvements
Effective record-keeping and documentation skills for maintenance and programming activities
Ability to train or support team members on equipment operation and automation concepts
Strong verbal and written communication skills for cross-functional collaboration
Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and respond effectively to emergency situations
Associate degree (2-year) in Automation, Mechatronics, Industrial Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, or related field or equivalent hands-on experience
PLC troubleshooting and programming experience required
Experience with automation systems in a manufacturing environment strongly preferred
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed in this role and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or requirements.
AISIN offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee health, financial security, and professional growth, including:
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
Retirement Savings Plan
Sickness and Accident Coverage
Life Insurance
Paid Vacation and Holidays
Tuition Assistance and Technical Training Programs
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Vehicle Purchase Discounts
And more
Qualifications
The above intended to describe the general content of and requirement for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements.
Based in Kariya City, Aichi, Japan, AISIN Corporation is a $35 billion Top 10 global Tier One supplier of automotive components and systems with over 200 consolidated companies spanning over 20 countries and some 120,000 employees.
In North America, Aisin Group companies have sales of more than $5 billion with 14,000 employees and 36 manufacturing, sales, and R & D centers, including FT-Techno of America, an 950-acre test track and proving ground in Fowlerville, Michigan. Currently, Aisin is ranked sixth and thirteenth as the largest supplier in the world and in North America, respectively.
Superior products through engineering excellence, progressive technological development and dedication to service are some factors which have contributed to bringing AISIN to its position as a multi-award-winning global leader in automotive parts.
Our intense focus on research and development is the commitment that enables our company to offer vital, leading edge technology to the automotive industry.
