Job Title: Automation Control Technician
Job Description
This role focuses on installing, wiring, and maintaining complex automation, control, and data acquisition systems in a dynamic aerospace test environment. The Automation Control Technician builds and troubleshoots intricate electrical and instrumentation assemblies, supports PLC-based manufacturing hardware, and ensures reliable operation of launch site instrumentation and power distribution equipment. The position requires strong hands-on technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work safely in demanding conditions.
Responsibilities
- Install and terminate wiring to pad instrumentation and data acquisition systems
- Install connectors, connector pins, terminals, and lugs
- Install and modify electrical conveyances, including but not limited to conduit and cable tray
- Install cable and cable assemblies
- Build intricate and complex cable assemblies using Mil-C connectors and contacts
- Troubleshoot AC power distribution equipment up to 480VAC
- Build and terminate AC power equipment up to 480VAC
- Build, terminate, troubleshoot, and maintain PLC-based manufacturing hardware
- Fabricate support structures, enclosures, and conveyances for electrical distribution equipment
Essential Skills
- Associate degree in aerospace technology or another technical field.
- 2+ years of experience working with instrumentation such as pressure transducers, thermocouples, valves, flow meters, multimeters, or oscilloscopes.
- 2+ years of professional, hands-on experience working with launch site instrumentation.
- Experience working with PLC-based control systems, including PLC programming and troubleshooting.
- Experience with data acquisition (DAQ) programming.
- Experience with NI-based systems and Studio 5000.
- Experience with Siemens PLCs.
- Experience with ISO 9000, IPC-620, and IPC-610 standards.
- Quality inspection experience with harnessing and cables.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and electrical drawings.
- Understanding of basic direct current (DC) electrical theory.
- Ability to design and fabricate simple electrical circuits.
- Proficiency in control panel building, panel wiring, and control panel integration.
- Experience with robotics, controls engineering, and automation systems.
- Experience with HMI interfaces and PLC troubleshooting.
- Experience with pneumatics and related control systems.
- Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
- Proficiency with power tools such as hand drills, grinders, band saws, vacuums, and impact drivers.
- Proficiency with hand tools such as wire strippers, screwdrivers, flush cuts, wrenches, and similar tools.
- Ability to perform quality assurance and QC tasks related to electrical and control systems.
- General physical fitness with the ability to work in tight quarters and maintain physical dexterity.
- Ability to lift objects up to 25 lbs unassisted.
- Ability to work at elevated heights up to 300 ft with proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Ability and willingness to work in extreme environments, including heat, cold, rain, fumes, odors, and noise.
- Willingness to work extended hours and weekends, as needed, to support operations.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Experience with AutoCAD or similar design tools for interpreting or documenting electrical layouts.
- Experience in design and integration of robotics and automation systems.
- Experience in developing and documenting technical procedures and work instructions.
- Exposure to quality assurance and QC methodologies within a manufacturing or test environment.
- Strong troubleshooting skills for complex control, instrumentation, and electrical systems.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, test-focused aerospace environment.
- Strong communication skills for collaborating with engineers, technicians, and support personnel.
- Detail-oriented mindset with a focus on safety, reliability, and compliance with standards.
Why Work Here?
You will join a fast-paced aerospace test environment where your work directly supports real-world missions and cutting-edge propulsion technology. The culture emphasizes safety, teamwork, and continuous innovation, giving you the chance to build highly specialized skills while contributing to meaningful projects. You benefit from a strong safety culture, structured training, and a team-oriented atmosphere that values communication, respect, and problem solvin