About SunOptaSunOpta delivers customized supply chain solutions and innovation for top brands, retailers, and foodservice providers across a broad portfolio of beverages, broths, and better-for-you snacks. With over 50 years of expertise, SunOpta fuels customers' growth with high-quality, sustainability-forward solutions distributed through retail, club, foodservice, and e-commerce channels across North America.
Job Summary:The Automation Controls Technician I supports the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of automated control systems and industrial equipment. This entry-level role works under close supervision to ensure manufacturing and facility automation systems operate safely, efficiently, and reliably.
Essential Functions of the Job:- Assist with installation, startup, and maintenance of PLC-based control systems
- Troubleshoot basic electrical, mechanical, and control system issues
- Support preventive and corrective maintenance on automated equipment
- Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals
- Perform basic PLC monitoring, I/O checks, and parameter adjustments
- Assist with sensor, actuator, VFD, HMI, and motor troubleshooting
- Document maintenance activities, repairs, and system changes
- Follow safety procedures, lockout/tagout (LOTO), and company standards
- Work collaboratively with maintenance, engineering, and operations teams
- Escalate complex issues to senior technicians or engineers as needed
- Accountable to the SunOpta Manufacturing Food Safety and Quality Principles.
- All other duties, as assigned.
Supervisory Responsibilities:Minimum Qualifications:- High school diploma or GED required
- Associate degree or technical certificate in Automation, Electronics, Mechatronics, or related field preferred
- 0-2 years of experience in industrial maintenance, automation, or controls (internship or apprenticeship acceptable)
- Basic understanding of PLCs, industrial controls, and electrical systems
- Familiarity with hand tools, electrical test equipment, and basic troubleshooting techniques
- Ability to read basic electrical diagrams and technical documentation
Preferred Qualifications:- Exposure to PLC platforms (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.)
- Basic knowledge of HMIs, VFDs, and industrial networks
- Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude
- Willingness to learn and take direction
- Good communication and teamwork skills
Featured benefits- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Paid Family leave
- Paid maternity leave
- 401(k) with Match
- Voluntary Life, Accident, Critical Illness and Hospital indemnity
- Paid Holidays
- Tuition assistance
- Short-term and Long-term Disability insurance
Additional Considerations:- Location: This role is at our MN Street SunOpta Plant in Alexandria, MN.
- Shift: 3rd Shift, Sunday - Thursday, 11 pm - 7:30 am.
- Pay Rate: $36.00 / hour.
- Shift Differential: $1.25 / hour shift differential offered for working 3rd Shift.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 lbs.
- Ability to work in industrial environments (noise, heat, moving equipment).
- May require shift work, overtime, or on-call support.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
EOE M/W/VET/DISABLED
