Job Description

Description

Sonderen Packaging is a third-generation family-owned complete folding carton manufacturer which means we employ quality, precision, consistency, and total product satisfaction from the design of the carton to pre-press to the finished carton. Using custom inks, hard surface coatings, and die-cut options, packages are both vibrant and highly durable. 

Why work for us?

Join an exciting team who takes pride in what they do and in seeing our quality products on the store shelf. A team who loves to laugh, joke, and celebrate success with each other and our families. We give back to our community, work hard and play hard, and that is what it’s all about. Are you up for the challenge?

What We Have to Offer:

Employees are our top priority at Sonderen Packaging. Working is here not just a job but a place to call home. Below is a summary of some of our great benefits:

• Competitive wages 
• Signing Bonus - $500 if eligible
• Quarterly Metric Bonus potential
• 401(k) + company match up to 4%, eligible after 6 months (auto vested)
• 4 Health Insurance Plans to choose from (each inclusive of Vision)
• Dental Insurance 
• Employer sponsored Basic Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D)
• Supplemental Life Insurance 
• Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
• Vacation, Sick, and 7 Paid Holidays
• Referral Bonus – Up to $500 if eligible

SUMMARY

The Senior Automation Technician is responsible for ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of production equipment and facility systems in a high-volume carton folding box manufacturing environment. This position requires advanced technical expertise, including PLC programming and troubleshooting, mechanical repair, and electrical systems knowledge. The Senior Automation Technician also mentors maintenance staff and supports continuous improvement efforts to reduce downtime and optimize performance. This position reports directly to the Maintenance Manager.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Please note that this list is ILLUSTRATIVE only and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by an incumbent in this role. Duties and responsibilities may include but are not limited to the following:

• Perform troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance on mechanical, conveyor, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
• Diagnose and resolve PLC and control system issues, including programming, wiring, and integration with production machinery.
• Provide low-voltage (<480V) electrical support for facility renovations, equipment installations, and maintenance work orders.
• Read and interpret machine blueprints, building construction floor plans, P&ID diagrams, and electrical/pneumatic/gas/vacuum/high-pressure piping schematics.
• Apply knowledge of DC and AC circuits, motor control, and electrical measuring techniques.
• Perform routine inspections and execute preventive and predictive maintenance on machinery, equipment, and facility systems to identify potential issues, reduce the likelihood of failure, and ensure overall equipment reliability.
• Remove and replace defective parts by dismantling devices by using forklifts, hoists, cranes, and hand and power tools; verify part specifications through inspection and by using measurement tools.
• Respond to breakdowns quickly to minimize downtime and ensure continuous production; control downtime by communicating with production staff on preventive maintenance practices.
• Assist with the installation, testing, and calibration of new equipment or systems.
• Follow established SOPs and validation requirements; maintain continuity among work teams by documenting and communicating actions, irregularities, and ongoing needs; ensure accurate records of maintenance activities including but not limited to work orders, repairs and parts used.
• Support machine changeovers, equipment upgrades, and new installations.
• Provide technical guidance, training, and mentorship to other maintenance staff.
• Answer questions and respond to support requests relating to mechanical maintenance information in a clear and timely manner.
• Collaborate with production staff, managers, and external vendors to resolve equipment issues and drive process improvements.
• Maintain regular and predictable attendance.
• Follow safety procedures and practices to ensure a safe working environment for all employees.
• Perform all work duties and activities in accordance with company policies, practices and core values
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing to communicate effectively and to discern warning or emergency alarms
• Sufficient vision to review and read documents, reports, signage, and computer screens/monitors, and to observe equipment operation.
• Sufficient manual dexterity and hand/wrist/arm movements to use a keyboard and safely use hand tools, power tools, and test equipment.
• Ability to regularly lift at least 20 lbs. above shoulder height and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs. from the floor to waist height; and ability to push/pull up to 100 lbs.
• Ability to stand stationary for 1 hour continuously and up to 5.75 hours cumulatively per shift.
• Ability to sit for up to one half hour cumulatively.
• Ability to walk up to 2.50 hours cumulatively per shift.
• Sufficient body flexibility and balance to bend, twist, squat and crouch frequently; ability to bend and twist at the head, neck and waist.
• Ability to frequently walk up and down stairs and occasionally climb ladders.
• Sufficient focus and attention to concentrate and complete tasks safely and accurately.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Typical working conditions are exposed to moderate noise but at times may be exposed to loud and excessive noise
• Production areas of the facility may include variations in temperature, humidity, odor, dust, fumes, and debris.
• May be required to work at heights of up to 40 feet
• Local travel may be required; additional travel outside the area for training purposes may also be required.

QUALIFICATIONS

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• Industrial maintenance in a manufacturing setting including mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and conveyor systems.
• Proficiency with PLC programming and troubleshooting and VFD operation and integrations with production machinery.
• Electrical systems, circuits, wiring diagrams, and electrical safety standards.
• Preventive maintenance processes and schedules
• Safety Regulations including OSHA standards, plant safety policies, and safe work practices.

SKILL AND ABILITY TO:

• Identify, diagnose and troubleshoot the root cause of equipment malfunctions and resolve issues efficiently.
• Use hand tools, power tools, diagnostic equipment, and machinery to perform maintenance and repairs.
• Repair, replace, and adjust parts and equipment, and to perform detailed mechanical and electrical maintenance using hand tools, power tools, diagnostic equipment and machinery.
• Read, interpret and apply technical manuals, equipment schematics, drawings, blueprints, and other documentation to guide repairs, installations, and system changes.
• Prioritize and manage multiple maintenance tasks to meet production demands.
• Accurately record maintenance activities, repairs, and inspections while ensuring compliance with plant requirements.
• Think critically, make sound decisions under pressure, and apply strong problem-solving and decision-making skills to quickly address equipment failures and production interruptions.
• Demonstrate high attention to detail to ensure work is performed safely, accurately, and in compliance with quality standards.
• Safely operate a vehicle, scissor lifts, boom lifts, and forklifts
• Operate a PC and use email and Microsoft Office programs including Word and Excel
• Effectively communicate both verbally and in writing, work collaboratively in a team environment, and professionally represent the company.
• Handle and prioritize multiple tasks and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrate a cooperative and positive attitude when working with colleagues
• Approach interpersonal challenges with professionalism and a solution-oriented mindset
• Work flexible hours, including overtime, weekends, or on-call shifts as required
• Perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or equivalent (preferred)
• Technical certification or associate’s degree in industrial maintenance, electrical, or mechanical engineering (preferred),
• PLC knowledge and experience (required) or
• A minimum of 5 years of job-related experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in packaging or printing.
• Must have a valid drivers’ license

Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.