Automation Specialist – Industrial Packaging Machinery

Location: Carol Stream, IL
Compensation: $53.17 – $58.79 per hour (Full-Time, Non-Exempt)
Onsite Role – No relocation or sponsorship available

Position Overview

Serac is seeking a hands-on Automation Specialist to support industrial filling and capping systems in our Carol Stream, IL facility. This role focuses on PLC programming, commissioning, motion control validation, and Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) for industrial packaging machinery.

This position is 100% onsite and involves performing I/O checks, validating control software, tuning motion systems, and troubleshooting electrical and automation systems in a production environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Program, modify, and troubleshoot Allen-Bradley PLC systems (RSLogix / Studio 5000).

• Perform I/O validation, sequence testing, alarm verification, and coordinated motion control between machine components.

• Participate in Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) to ensure systems meet functionality, performance, and safety standards prior to shipment.

• Support commissioning and troubleshooting of servo motors, VFDs, encoders, and PLC-based motion loops.

• Diagnose electrical and control system issues both in-house and occasionally at customer sites.

• Validate safety systems in accordance with NFPA 79 and applicable industrial standards.

• Document software revisions, technical changes, and automation updates clearly and accurately.

• Assist with basic automation risk assessments using tools such as SISTEMA when required.

• Collaborate with engineering and service teams to ensure successful machine delivery and startup.

Required Qualifications

• 2–5 years of experience in industrial automation, packaging machinery, or control systems.

• Hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley RSLogix 5000 / Studio 5000 (required).

• Experience programming and troubleshooting PLC systems.

• Familiarity with servo motors, VFDs, encoders, and motion control systems.

• Experience performing I/O checks, commissioning, and system validation.

• Understanding of industrial safety standards such as NFPA 79.

• Strong troubleshooting skills in electrical and automation environments.

• Ability to work independently on the production floor.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with B&R Automation Studio or Siemens TIA Portal.

• Experience with Structured Text, Ladder Logic, and Function Block programming.

• Experience with SISTEMA or Safety Automation Builder.

• Experience with industrial networks such as EtherNet/IP or Modbus.

• Experience in filling, capping, or industrial packaging systems.

Compensation and Benefits

• Hourly Rate: $53.17 – $58.79 (Non-Exempt)

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• 401(k) with Company Match

• Paid Time Off

• Short- and Long-Term Disability Coverage

• Travel per diem (when applicable)

About Serac

Serac designs and builds advanced filling, capping, and packaging systems for major global brands. The Automation Specialist plays a key technical role in ensuring our machines operate safely, efficiently, and reliably before shipment and during customer support.