Help Drive the Future of Automation.
At Spectra, we're committed to delivering high-quality aluminum products through innovation, automation and continuous improvement. As a growing Canadian manufacturer with five facilities across Ontario, we're expanding our Engineering team and looking for a PLC Programmer/Automation Specialist to help improve the performance, reliability and efficiency of our manufacturing operations.
This is an exciting opportunity to work on a wide variety of automation projects from troubleshooting production equipment and optimizing PLC programs to supporting robotics, machine upgrades, commissioning and continuous improvement initiatives. You'll collaborate closely with Engineering, Maintenance, Production and external equipment suppliers while helping shape the future of automation across our facilities.
If you're someone who enjoys solving complex controls challenges and making a direct impact on manufacturing performance, we'd love to hear from you.
What You'll Do
- Develop, modify, troubleshoot and optimize PLC programs to improve machine performance, reliability and safety.
- Troubleshoot PLC-controlled production equipment during breakdowns to minimize downtime.
- Support HMI and SCADA systems by improving operator interfaces, diagnostics, alarms and equipment monitoring.
- Troubleshoot industrial electrical controls, sensors, variable frequency drives (VFDs), servo systems, communication networks and remote I/O systems.
- Support FANUC robots by troubleshooting alarms, communication faults and performing basic program modifications.
- Participate in equipment upgrades, automation projects, machine retrofits and new equipment commissioning.
- Develop automation solutions that improve equipment performance, cycle times and production efficiency.
- Perform PLC backups, maintain accurate documentation and support change management processes.
- Partner cross-functionally to solve complex automation challenges.
- Support root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives that improve equipment reliability and reduce recurring failures.
You'll Thrive in This Role If You...
- Enjoy solving complex automation and controls challenges.
- Like being hands-on and working directly with manufacturing equipment.
- Stay calm under pressure and enjoy troubleshooting production issues.
- Have a continuous improvement mindset and enjoy making equipment smarter, faster and more reliable.
- Communicate well and enjoy collaborating with electricians, millwrights, engineers and production teams.
- Take pride in building sustainable solutions, not just quick fixes.
Qualifications
- Diploma or degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, Mechatronics or a related field.
- Three or more years of PLC programming and industrial automation experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Experience with PLC programming, HMI systems, industrial control systems and automated equipment.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and technical documentation.
- Strong troubleshooting skills involving PLCs, sensors, analog devices, communication networks and industrial controls.
- Experience with Siemens or Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation PLCs is considered an asset.
- Experience with TIA Portal, Studio 5000, RSLogix, FANUC Robotics, SCADA systems or VFDs is considered an asset.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.
What Success Looks Like
In this role, you'll know you're making an impact when you:
- Reduce equipment downtime through effective PLC troubleshooting and controls improvements.
- Improve machine reliability, diagnostics and fault recovery across the operation.
- Successfully deliver automation projects, equipment upgrades and commissioning activities.
- Help build the troubleshooting capabilities of our Maintenance team through knowledge sharing and technical support.
- Develop innovative automation solutions that improve safety, productivity, and manufacturing performance.
Why Join Spectra?
At Spectra, you'll join a collaborative Engineering team where you'll have the opportunity to work on diverse automation and manufacturing projects that make a real impact. We believe in investing in our people, encouraging innovation and creating opportunities for long-term career growth.
What We Offer
- Exposure to automation, robotics, PLC programming, machine design and capital projects.
- Opportunities to work across multiple manufacturing facilities and automation initiatives.
- Mentorship from experienced engineering and automation professionals.
- A collaborative environment where your ideas are valued and your technical expertise makes a difference.
- Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits.
- Ongoing learning, development and career growth opportunities.
- The opportunity to help shape the future of a growing Canadian manufacturer.
If you're looking for a role where you can expand your automation expertise, work on meaningful projects and make a lasting impact on manufacturing operations, we'd love to hear from you.
Vacancy Status: This posting is for an existing vacancy.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: $30.00-$40.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Paid time off
- Tuition reimbursement
Work Location: In person
