Automation Technician (1st, 2nd or 3rd shift)
Automation Technician (1st, 2nd, or 3rd Shift) - Kansas CityCompany OverviewOur client is a leading plastics manufacturer serving the automotive industry for over 40 years, offering advanced solutions in injection molding, TPO/TPE materials, extrusion, and engineered composites.Position SummaryThe Automation Technician is responsible for installing, troubleshooting, repairing, and improving automated systems in a plastic injection molding environment. This role ensures maximum production uptime by supporting robotics, PLC-controlled equipment, and auxiliary automation while meeting safety, quality, and IATF 16949 standards.Key ResponsibilitiesTroubleshoot and repair:Robotics (Fanuc, Wittman, Sepro, Viper)End-of-arm tooling (EOAT)Conveyors and part handling systemsDiagnose PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and drivesPerform preventative and predictive maintenanceAssist with PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens)Support robot programming and cycle time improvementsRead electrical schematics and ladder logicDrive continuous improvement (scrap reduction, uptime)Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) and corrective actionsRespond quickly to downtime eventsSupport mold changes and automation setupsCollaborate with production, quality, and engineering teamsEnsure OSHA and plant safety complianceSupport IATF 16949 quality systemsBasic QualificationsAssociate's degree or technical certification (preferred)2-5+ years automation experience (automotive preferred)Injection molding experience strongly preferredKnowledge of:PLC systems (Allen-Bradley, Siemens)Robotics systemsElectrical systems (24V, 120V, 480V)Sensors, vision systems, servo drivesStrong troubleshooting and problem-solving skillsEffective communication skillsPhysical RequirementsStand, walk, bend, kneel, climb laddersLift up to 50 lbsWork in industrial manufacturing environmentWorking ConditionsIndustrial environment with temperature variationExposure to noise, heat, and moving equipmentInjection molding and automation cellsOvertime and weekend work as neededCompensation & BenefitsMedical, Dental, Vision401(k) with matchPaid holidays & vacationAdvancement opportunitiesKey Differences Between Shifts1 Primary Difference: Work ScheduleThe ONLY real difference across all three descriptions is the shift designation:1st Shift → Day shift (typically ~6am-2pm or similar)2nd Shift → Afternoon/evening (~2pm-10pm)3rd Shift → Overnight (~10pm-6am)The job duties, qualifications, and responsibilities are identical across all three roles.2 Operational Expectations by Shift (Implied, Not Explicitly Stated)1st Shift (Days)More interaction with:EngineeringManagementContinuous improvement teamsMore involvement in:ProjectsProcess improvementsMeetings2nd Shift (Afternoons)Transition shift between day and nightBalanced mix of:TroubleshootingSome project carryoverLess management presence than 1st shift3rd Shift (Nights)Heavy focus on:TroubleshootingKeeping production runningTypically:Minimal engineering support onsiteMore independent workHigher urgency response to downtime3 Work Environment RealityEven though all descriptions state the same:"Work off-shift, weekends, and overtime as needed"In reality:2nd & 3rd shifts are more likely to:Handle emergency breakdownsWork with reduced support staffOperate more autonomously