Process Automation Technician

Making a difference in the world by reducing carbon emissions and improving access to clean energy with every module we make.

Silfab Solar is the leading automated solar panel manufacturing facility in North America. We are an international leader in the development, manufacturing, distribution, and innovation of high efficiency PV modules, operating with Just-In-Time manufacturing and leveraging over 40 years of solar experience. Our multiple state of the art facilities, utilize advanced manufacturing technology to produce solar modules with superior performance and reliability specifically designed for the North American market.

At Silfab Solar, our team members have been actively shaping sustainable solutions since its inception and we are looking to grow our team of 700+ experts who are dedicated to our mission and to evolving technology for the next generation of solar products. 

Summary of Position 

The Process Automation Technician is responsible for monitoring, documenting, controlling process recipes and parameters, Out of Control Action Plans (OCAPs)  within all processes and adjusting when required; regular review of the production schedule; preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, updating the inventory of spare parts and wearable parts on hand, setting reorder points, maximizing machine up-time and work with and assist the Quality Team to ensure product quality. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Daily audit of all equipment capturing process recipes, and process control parameters. 
• Support production and ensure that equipment process integrity is in place.   
• Work with the Quality Team to Collect and evaluate operating and quality data to conduct equipment/recipe adjustment to ensure process optimization.   
• Perform periodic checking of machine process parameters and recipes.  
• Get to know the manufacturing process in detail (its process characterization) to and be able to identify when the process is deviating from the norm via Statistical Process Control (SPC) and take action via OCAPs to correct it or to escalate it to senior Eng. / Maintenance staff if unable to correct the problem.  
• Perform inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of the equipment in accordance with operational instructions.  
• Document routine manufacturing processes in approved Standard Work Instructions (SWIs).   
• Lead and work with Production, Quality and Maintenance to Identify areas for improvement and optimize machine availability, cycle time, utilization, and cost via Value Stream Mapping (VSM).  
• Initiate and lead PK, A3 and Apollo process to identify and implement containments, determine root cause analysis and prevent re-occurrence of machine failure and quality defects.
• Quick and effective diagnosis and troubleshooting of routine or minor problems.  
• Provide technical solutions either by improving the process, machine modifications, or incoming material evaluation.  
• Use Formulate test hypothesis and perform and document qualitative analysis of data by conducting proper DOE (Design of Experiment) and other statistical analysis testing tools to adjust processes and recipes to and maintain production quality and output.   
• Troubleshoot nonstandard events on the production line and establish preventative measures to limit recurrence of such events through the PK (Process Killer) and A3 processes.   
• Follow established standard process for training other employees as well as updating training manuals when necessary.  
• Exercise informed and analytical judgment and initiative by leading Apollo process to resolving resolve complex nonstandard problems.  
• Develop and communicate recommendations to prevent machine down time and maintain quality levels.  
• Participate in programs to improve productivity and output quality of the module.   
• Ensure the equipment is operating in a safe manner and all safety devices are active. 
• Support the team on improving the safety of the machine, where necessary.

Skills

• Excellent inter-personal and communication skills both written and verbal.  
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with cross-functional team members.  
• High Mechanical, electrical and electromagnetic aptitude.

Traits

• Mechanical aptitude/interest   
• Team oriented.  
• Commitment to continuous learning  
• High degree of attention to detail, precision and follow through.  
• Willing and able to work rotating shifts.  
• Be able to conceive and manage small projects.

Education and/or Experience

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics STEM or technical program (e.g., Microelectronics, Electronic Engineering Technology, Computer Electronic Engineering Technology) or be pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree in a STEM or technical program.  
• Training in a technical field (e.g., Electronics, Mechanical), and a minimum of 6 months of hands-on experience.  

Preferred Qualifications  

• 2 years of work experience in fully/semi-automated manufacturing plant  
• Knowledge in PLC, HMI, electro-pneumatic, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical wiring, vision system, VFDs and chemical processes.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive wages $30- $40 DOE
• Annual bonus eligibility
• Paid Time Off (vacation, sick, and holiday)   
• 401(k) Retirement Plan     
• Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance Plans  
• Health Savings Account option   
• Supplemental/Voluntary Insurance Plans  
• Employee Assistance Program   
• Tuition Reimbursement Program   
• Employee Recognition Programs  
• Employee PV Panel Purchase Program