PLC/DCS Technician – Equipment Support

The Junior PLC/DCS Technician is responsible for supporting the operation, troubleshooting, and minor configuration tasks of PLC- or DCS-based automation systems used in manufacturing or processing equipment. The role includes assisting in equipment commissioning, resolving basic control issues, and performing routine system checks under supervision.

This is a learning and support role, ideal for someone looking to build practical experience in industrial automation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in routine maintenance, testing, and troubleshooting of PLCs, HMIs, and DCS panels connected to production equipment.

• Support senior technicians during equipment startup, loop checks, and signal testing.

• Perform basic wiring checks and assist with I/O verification for connected sensors and actuators.

• Monitor control system performance and report alarms or process deviations to supervisors.

• Maintain logs, backup files, and field observations as part of daily shift duties.

• Help document minor changes in ladder logic or function blocks as instructed.

• Follow safety protocols, electrical isolation procedures, and plant SOPs during field work.

Key Focus Areas:

1. PLC/DCS System Familiarity

   • Basic understanding of:

     • Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Schneider, or Emerson DeltaV systems

     • I/O addressing, ladder logic, and function blocks

     • HMI layouts and alarm interfaces

2. Equipment Support Tasks

   • Support instrumentation and control issues related to:

     • Pumps, mixers, valves, conveyors, filling machines, and utility skids

     • Routine resets, minor sensor calibration, or signal checks

3. Troubleshooting Assistance

   • Under supervision:

     • Trace and log signal faults

     • Assist in identifying control-related issues affecting operations

     • Report equipment logic faults or hardware failures

4. Documentation and Learning

   • Keep field notes and update logs for:

     • I/O mapping, tag assignments, panel layouts

     • PLC program versioning or system backups (with guidance)

5. Compliance and Safety

   • Work within:

     • GMP or ISO-compliant environments

     • Lockout-tagout (LOTO), ESD protection, and panel access protocols

Qualifications:

• Education:

  • Diploma / B.E. / B.Tech in Instrumentation, Electronics, Electrical, or Mechatronics

  • Or completion of a recognized PLC/DCS training certification course

• Experience:

  • 0–2 years of relevant internship or hands-on experience in automation support or equipment maintenance

• Skills Required:

  • Basic exposure to ladder logic or control diagrams

  • Familiarity with industrial sensors, actuators, and field wiring

  • Good communication, observation, and willingness to learn from senior team members