Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Premier Packaging provides innovative packaging solutions through a combination of curiosity, drive, and a culture that embraces an entrepreneurial spirit. We are responsive to our customers’ needs, responsible to one another and the environment, and improve our processes to deliver quality products. We Ask ‘Why’ so we can deliver the ‘How’.

The Maintenance Mechanic / Electrical Technician is responsible for supporting the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of corrugated converting and manufacturing equipment. This role combines strong mechanical aptitude with electrical, instrumentation, and automation expertise to diagnose issues, perform repairs, and execute preventive maintenance activities.

This position plays a critical role in minimizing downtime, improving equipment reliability, and ensuring production operates at optimal (centerline) performance.

Key Responsibilities: Maintenance Mechanic / Electrical Technician

Equipment Troubleshooting & Repair

• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair corrugated manufacturing equipment, including flexo folder gluers, die cutters, and folder gluers.
• Troubleshoot electrical systems including AC/DC motors, motor controls, variable frequency drives (VFDs), PLCs, relays, proximity sensors, limit switches, and power circuits (12 VDC–480 VAC).
• Repair and maintain hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and electromechanical systems.
• Utilize diagnostic tools including multimeters and testing equipment to identify root causes of failures.
• Respond to equipment downtime with urgency to restore operations quickly and safely.

Preventive & Predictive Maintenance

• Perform scheduled preventive maintenance (PM) on converting and auxiliary equipment.
• Identify and initiate corrective maintenance activities to prevent recurring issues.
• Utilize predictive maintenance tools such as infrared (IR) scanning and calibration equipment (as qualified) to detect potential failures.
• Support continuous improvement of maintenance practices and reliability programs.

Instrumentation, Controls & Automation

• Install, maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot PLC, HMI, and control systems (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens).
• Support modifications, upgrades, and integration of automation systems to improve performance.
• Maintain instrumentation related to process variables such as flow, temperature, pressure, and density.
• Assist with robotic systems and operator interface troubleshooting; provide training support as needed.

Electrical Systems

• Install, troubleshoot, and maintain electrical systems including motors, starters, drives, transformers, lighting, and distribution systems.
• Read and interpret electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical schematics.
• Install conduit, wiring, and electrical components in accordance with applicable codes and standards.

Collaboration & Continuous Improvement

• Partner with operations and maintenance teams to resolve issues and improve equipment performance.
• Serve as a technical resource for plant-wide electrical, instrumentation, and automation needs.
• Mentor and support development of multi-craft technicians.
• Contribute to a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Work Expectations: Maintenance Mechanic / Electrical Technician

• Adhere to all safety, environmental, and company policies and procedures.
• Provide and maintain personal basic hand tools and rolling toolbox.
• Work flexible schedules including assigned shifts, weekends, holidays, overtime, and on-call rotation as required.

Qualifications: Maintenance Mechanic / Electrical Technician

Required Skills & Experience

• Minimum of 2+ years of experience in:
  • Industrial maintenance within a manufacturing environment or
  • Electrical/instrumentation troubleshooting in a production setting
• Proven ability to diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems
• Strong ability to read and interpret electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic schematics
• Experience troubleshooting industrial controls including PLCs, motor controls, control valves, AC/DC motors, and VFDs
• Working knowledge of NFPA 70E, electrical safety standards, and OSHA regulations
• Experience installing, maintaining, or modifying PLC, HMI, or automated systems

Preferred Qualifications (What Will Put You Ahead): Maintenance Mechanic / Electrical Technician

• Advanced industrial electrical troubleshooting (motors, drives, and VFD systems)
• Experience with Siemens and/or Allen-Bradley PLC programming or advanced diagnostics
• Corrugated packaging or converting industry experience
• Mechanical experience including conveyors, actuated systems, and welding
• Associate degree or technical diploma in Electrical, Mechanical, or Industrial Maintenance
• Experience with infrared (IR) technology for predictive maintenance

Physical Requirements: Maintenance Mechanic / Electrical Technician

• Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and work in industrial environments for extended periods
• Comfortable working at heights, in confined spaces, and around moving equipment

Education / Physical / Requirements:

• At least 18 years of age
• Lift up to 25 lbs. alone and up to 50 lbs. assisted.
• Technical education or certification in maintenance is a plus.
• Familiarity with corrugated manufacturing equipment and processes.
• Proficient in preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of machinery.
• Capability to interpret and understand electrical schematics, diagrams, and blueprints.
• Perform repairs on malfunctioning electrical components, such as motors, sensors, and switches.
• Replace faulty electrical parts and ensure compatibility with existing systems.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Ability to use hand and power tools effectively.