Title: Automation Technician – ASRS / AMR Systems
Location: Libertyville, IL
Duration: Long-term Contract
Position Summary
The Automation Technician – ASRS/AMR is responsible for the installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of automated material handling systems, including Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems (ASRS) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). This role ensures maximum system uptime, supports production operations, and executes both preventive and corrective maintenance in a highly automated manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
System Operation & Support
- Monitor daily operations of ASRS and AMR systems to ensure safe and efficient material flow
- Respond promptly to system alarms, faults, and stoppages to minimize downtime
- Support production teams by maintaining required throughput and uptime targets
Maintenance & Troubleshooting
- Perform preventive (PM) and corrective maintenance (CM) on ASRS equipment such as cranes, conveyors, shuttles, and lifts, as well as AMRs
- Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and control system issues, including:
- PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens)
- Sensors (photoeyes, RFID, vision systems)
- Drives, motors, and communication networks
- Repair or replace worn components to maintain system reliability
Automation Systems Support
- Assist in installation, commissioning, and startup of ASRS and AMR systems
- Support integration of AMRs with manufacturing and warehouse systems
- Collaborate with WMS/WCS teams to resolve system interface issues
Continuous Improvement
- Identify recurring issues and participate in root cause analysis (RCA / Why-Why)
- Implement corrective actions to improve system performance and reliability
- Provide feedback to engineering teams for process and design improvements
Documentation & Compliance
- Maintain accurate maintenance logs, PM records, and troubleshooting documentation
- Follow safety procedures and ensure compliance with company and regulatory standards
- Assist in developing SOPs, work instructions, and training materials
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Coordinate with Engineering, IT, Operations, and external vendors for issue resolution
- Support vendor technicians during system upgrades, maintenance, and troubleshooting
Required Qualifications
- Associate degree or technical certification in Automation, Mechatronics, Electrical, Robotics, or a related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)
- Experience in industrial automation, maintenance, or material handling systems
- Hands-on experience with:
- ASRS systems (cranes, shuttles, conveyors, lifts)
- AMRs / AGVs
- PLC troubleshooting (Allen-Bradley or Siemens preferred)
- Strong understanding of:
- Electrical systems (24VDC, 480VAC)
- Sensors, actuators, and industrial controls
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and mechanical drawings
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with WMS/WCS systems and automation integration
- Familiarity with RFID, barcode scanning, and vision systems
- Basic PLC programming or HMI troubleshooting experience
- Experience in high-volume or regulated manufacturing environments (medical device preferred)
- Background working with automation integrators or OEM systems