The Senior Controls Technician role is responsible for the development of control systems for automating manufacturing processes and wrapping systems in response to project requirements and current operating environments.  Controls design includes developing control concepts, program design, coding and implementation, instrumentation selection and operator interface development. Additionally, the technician also directs the modification and installation of control systems; facilitates the transfer of knowledge of control systems and electrical projects; Supports and maintain controls networks, web servers, data historian and operator interface systems.

Principal Accountabilities

Achieve and maintain a high level of technical competency. Support engineering projects by designing control systems utilizing standardized design methodologies including Sequential Function Charts and Data Flow Diagrams. Develop and design new computer applications by preparing system flowcharts, report and screen layouts, source documents, and detailed specifications. Prepare job aids, user documentation, systems documentation, standard operating procedures, and training materials for plant automation systems. Direct the work activities of outside contractors, maintenance technicians, and other associates in the installation of instrumentation, PLC based control systems, and PC based operator interfaces. Provide project planning and estimate moderately complex jobs. Act as technical resource to operations/maintenance on controls related issues including troubleshooting, analysis and recommending practical corrective actions for control related problems. Identify opportunities and recommend changes to improve plant performance utilizing current control systems or by improving current systems Troubleshoot control system applications and make necessary modifications to get the systems up and running again. Troubleshoot, analyze, and recommend practical corrective actions for control related problems. Train and support non-technical users on the use of plant floor automation systems. Use and follow all engineering standards when implementing projects. Provide input into site engineering standards for programming and systems design. Gather data and analyze information requirements in preparation for the design of Level II, batch control, data gathering, web, and control systems. Perform programming, testing, and debugging for new systems as well as for the enhancement of existing systems. Modify and/or develop Wonderware applications to support engineering projects. Support the introduction to the plant of new control technologies such as device networks, modular I/O, PLC programming software, etc. Provide system management and administrative functions for PC and PLC networks, data historians, software version control, and web based data display systems.  This includes maintenance, enhancements, procedures development, and troubleshooting.

Key Functional Skills/Knowledge

Demonstrated the ability to analyze, design, program, and test computer applications for control/information systems. Ability to work with minimal supervision and to take direction from multiple sources. Good understanding of Operating Systems environments including Microsoft Windows 2000 and XP, Windows Server, Active Directory, and other Microsoft technologies. Working knowledge of AutoCAD. Ability to analyze system problems and correct them. Ability to communicate well both orally and in writing. Ability to work well with user departments to provide operational support in the use of HMI terminals and software applications on Control Systems. Must be able to ascertain - through interaction with production and engineering staff representatives - the requirements for process control computer applications. Knowledge of CIM concepts and ability to work with Wonderware batch control, visualization on the control software. Knowledge of databases such as Microsoft Access, Microsoft SQL Server, and database connectivity using ODBC and Wonderware automation software. Knowledge of web application development including basic web design, web connectivity, and database access. Understanding of networks including Modbus plus, Ethernet, Devicenet, and/or Protibus. Responsible for ensuring that there are no extended slow or downtime, damage to major equipment, and possible health/safety risks to the individual or others. Troubleshooting skills in Hydraulics, Pneumatics, low and high level voltage, logic circuits, and in all aspects of mechanical equipment. Knowledge of GMPs and clean design methods.

Key Experiences

Ability to troubleshoot programs residing in the Rockwell Automation PLC Control Systems in the plant. Must have a good understanding of interfacing with PLCs, scales, and display devices. Basic experience in selecting and installation process instrumentation. Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel.

Desired Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• A two-year technical degree or equivalent is required minimum for consideration.  A degree in controls/electrical/electronics is preferred, including courses in computer science. 

• Six years of control, electrical, or electronics experience including computer programming, systems analysis, and design, electrical or electronics production system troubleshooting, and problem resolution will be considered in lieu of degree requirements.

• Two years of this exposure must be in an industrial production environment similar to Mars manufacturing facilities.

About Mars:
Mars is a family-owned business with more than $35 billion in global sales. We produce some of the world’s best-loved brands: M&M’s®, SNICKERS®, TWIX®, MILKY WAY®, DOVE®, PEDIGREE®, ROYAL CANIN®, WHISKAS®, EXTRA®, ORBIT®, 5â„¢, SKITTLES®, BEN’S ORIGINAL® and COCOAVIA®. Alongside our consumer brands, we proudly take care of half of the world’s pets through our nutrition, health and services businesses such as Banfield Pet Hospitalsâ„¢, BluePearl®, Linnaeus, AniCura, VCAâ„¢ and Pet Partnersâ„¢. Headquartered in McLean, VA, Mars operates in more than 80 countries. The Mars Five Principles – Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency and Freedom – inspire our 130,000 Associates into taking action every day towards creating the world we want tomorrow.

Disclaimer:
Mars is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized as a result of such a request.​​​​​​​

Note to Search Firms/Agencies:
Mars, Incorporated and its subsidiaries and affiliates (Mars) do not compensate search firms for unsolicited assistance unless they have a written search agreement with Mars and the requisition is position-specific.  Any resumes, curriculum vitae, and other unsolicited assistance from search firms that do not have a written search agreement or position-specific requisition submitted to any Associate of Mars will be deemed the sole property of Mars and no fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Mars.