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Controls Technician Apprentice-PLC

Heat Transfer Sales

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Knoxville, TN
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Job Description

As posted by the hiring company

Job Overview:

Controls Tech Apprentice

Company: Hoffman Building Technologies
Status: Full Time, Non-Exempt (Eligible for Overtime)
Schedule: 40 hours per week
Department: Critical Technology (CT)

Job Purpose

The Controls Tech Apprentice is a paid, time-bound training position designed to develop employees into future Controls Technicians through supervised, hands-on learning in building automation systems (BAS), controls installation, programming, commissioning, troubleshooting, maintenance, and documentation. This role is intended to support Critical Technology operations while building practical skills in BAS platforms, PLC environments, SCADA systems, and related field and technical workflows. 

This position is an employer-sponsored development position. This position is intended to last approximately 11 weeks. Based on successful completion of assigned work, documented performance, conduct, safety, progression, attendance, professionalism, organizational alignment, and business need, an apprentice may be considered for advancement into a full-time Controls Technician role; advancement is not automatic and is not guaranteed. 

Key Responsibilities

  • Demonstrate professionalism, communication, coachability, teamwork, dependable attendance, and safe work habits while supporting customers and internal teams.
  • Learn applicable controls software, tools, safety practices, jobsite expectations, and company workflows through approved training and on-the-job coaching.
  • Work alongside experienced Controls Technicians with SCADA platforms to help monitor, control, and optimize building performance.
  • Assist with the installation of building automation systems using platforms such as Allen Bradley Studio 5000, RSLogix 5000, Siemens SIMATIC STEP 7 (TIA Portal), and other PLC environments.
  • Maintain accurate documentation for programming changes, system configurations, field updates, procedures, and assigned work activities.
  • Assist with preventive maintenance activities and regular system checks to help keep building systems operating reliably. 
  • Assist with troubleshooting and resolving issues with PLCs, controllers, automation software, and integrated control systems under supervision.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support implementation of new automation strategies and help ensure systems are integrated and functioning efficiently.
  • Travel to job site locations as required; upwards of 75% travel is expected for this role.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Must be 18 years of age or older. 
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain access to customer sites, including satisfying customer-specific site access requirements.
  • Ability to pass a background check and drug screen, as permitted by applicable law and company policy.
  • Ability to learn and use software, tools, and technical systems required for the role.
  • Ability to work in office, job site, industrial, and mechanical-room environments as required by assigned work.
  • Willingness to travel, learn quickly, follow instructions, work safely, and develop technical skills in a field-based and system-oriented environment.

Advancement and Employment Status

This is a developmental, time-bound position intended to evaluate and build readiness for a Controls Technician role. During the 11-week apprenticeship period, continued employment will be based on documented performance, conduct, safety, progression, attendance, professionalism, and business needs. Advancement into a Controls Technician Position is not automatic and is not guaranteed.

No phone calls or drop-ins please.
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