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Job Description: This job is posted on behalf of LFP Associates by Top Echelon. Automation Technician (1st, 2nd, or 3rd Shift) – Kansas City
Company Overview: Our client is a leading plastics manufacturer serving the automotive industry for over 40 years, offering advanced solutions in injection molding, TPO/TPE materials, extrusion, and engineered composites.
Position Summary: The Automation Technician is responsible for installing, troubleshooting, repairing, and improving automated systems in a plastic injection molding environment. This role ensures maximum production uptime by supporting robotics, PLC-controlled equipment, and auxiliary automation while meeting safety, quality, and IATF 16949 standards.
Key Responsibilities: Troubleshoot and repair:
  • Robotics (Fanuc, Wittman, Sepro, Viper)
  • End-of-arm tooling (EOAT)
  • Conveyors and part handling systems
  • Diagnose PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and drives
  • Perform preventative and predictive maintenance
  • Assist with PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens)
  • Support robot programming and cycle time improvements
  • Read electrical schematics and ladder logic
  • Drive continuous improvement (scrap reduction, uptime)
  • Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) and corrective actions
  • Respond quickly to downtime events
  • Support mold changes and automation setups
  • Collaborate with production, quality, and engineering teams
  • Ensure OSHA and plant safety compliance
  • Support IATF 16949 quality systems
Basic Qualifications: Associate's degree or technical certification (preferred)2–5+ years automation experience (automotive preferred) Injection molding experience strongly preferred Knowledge of:
  • PLC systems (Allen-Bradley, Siemens)
  • Robotics systems
  • Electrical systems (24V, 120V, 480V)
  • Sensors, vision systems, servo drives
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
  • Effective communication skills
Physical Requirements:
  • Stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb ladders
  • Lift up to 50 lbs
  • Work in industrial manufacturing environment
Working Conditions:
  • Industrial environment with temperature variation
  • Exposure to noise, heat, and moving equipment
  • Injection molding and automation cells
  • Overtime and weekend work as needed
Compensation & Benefits:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision 401(k) with match
  • Paid holidays & vacation
  • Advancement opportunities
  • Key Differences Between Shifts1⃣ Primary Difference: Work Schedule
  • The ONLY real difference across all three descriptions is the shift designation:1st Shift → Day shift (typically ~6am–2pm or similar)2nd Shift → Afternoon/evening (~2pm–10pm)3rd Shift → Overnight (~10pm–6am)
  • The job duties, qualifications, and responsibilities are identical across all three roles.2⃣ Operational Expectations by Shift (Implied, Not Explicitly Stated)1st Shift (Days)
  • More interaction with:
Engineering ManagementContinuous improvement teams More involvement in: Projects Process improvements Meetings2nd Shift (Afternoons) Transition shift between day and night Balanced mix of: Troubleshooting Some project carryover Less management presence than 1st shift3rd Shift (Nights) Heavy focus on: Troubleshooting Keeping production running Typically: Minimal engineering support onsite More independent work Higher urgency response to downtime3⃣ Work Environment Reality Even though all descriptions state the same:"Work off-shift, weekends, and overtime as needed"In reality:2nd & 3rd shifts are more likely to: Handle emergency breakdowns Work with reduced support staff Operate more autonomously

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