Sr Controls Technician

As part of Richardson’s global agriculture and food business, our food and ingredients division plays a central role in connecting farm to table through our vertically integrated supply chain. As a leading pasta manufacturer, Richardson produces a wide range of high-quality dry pasta products for diverse markets and end uses. 

Richardson provides an excellent compensation package consisting of a competitive salary, flexible benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, paid holidays, and training and career development opportunities.  

Working with Richardson opens the door to a world of possibility. We currently have an opportunity for a Senior Controls Technician at our Winchester, VA pasta production facility, where we produce Ronzoni pasta. 

Responsibilities: 

• Diagnose and resolve complex automation and control system issues affecting safety, quality, uptime, and production. 

• Design, improve, and maintain automation systems using preventive maintenance and root cause analysis to minimize downtime. 

• Lead engineering updates, changes, testing, and commissioning of automation modifications for multiple high-speed production lines 

• Train, coach, and mentor operators, maintenance technicians, and peers on automation systems and procedures 

• Lead and support special projects related to automation upgrades, retrofits, and new equipment installations 

Qualifications: 

• Associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, Mechatronics, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience 

• Minimum 5 years of experience in industrial automation or controls within a manufacturing environment (food or high-speed packaging preferred) 

• Strong knowledge of control panel design, layout, and troubleshooting 

• Extensive experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs, VFDs, and HMIs 

• Hands-on experience with SCADA systems 

• Proven ability to communicate effectively and resolve issues across multiple departments and organizational levels 

• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook. 

• Ability to read and interpret electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic schematics 

• Demonstrated capability to act as a technical leader and trainer 

• Strong understanding of automation, instrumentation, and control products and related engineering principles 

• Familiarity with automation suppliers and OEM equipment 

Physical Requirements:  

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the following physical job requirements, with or without reasonable accommodation: 

• Walk, stand, crouch, lift (in excess of 60 pounds), twist, climb, reach, and grasp for 6+ hours per shift 

• Work in hot, humid, and cold manufacturing environments 

• Work in confined or crowded spaces for extended periods 

• Bend, crawl, and climb ladders for extended durations