Automation Technician - 2nd Shift

Company Overview Andes Candies, LLC is located in Delavan, WI. We are a division of Tootsie Roll Industries and specialize in manufacturing delicious candy confections. Join our team and be part of a company dedicated to quality and innovation in the confectionery industry. Job Overview We are looking for a proactive and skilled Automation Technician to support our manufacturing operations during the 2nd shift operations within a high-volume confectionary production environment. In this role, you will be responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimizing automated candy-making and packaging equipment to ensure consistent quality, maximum uptime, and compliance with food safety standards. The ideal candidate is passionate about industrial maintenance, has a strong electrical background, and enjoys working in a dynamic environment. Key Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and repair automated confectionery production equipment, including cookers, depositors, extruders, forming machines, enrobing lines, cooling tunnels, and automated packaging systems.
• Perform mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and controls troubleshooting to minimize downtime and support continuous production flow.
• Execute preventive maintenance tasks in alignment with food industry standards (GMPs, HACCP, SQF).
• Adjust machine parameters to maintain product quality—texture, temperature, weight, shape, coating, and wrapping accuracy.
• Diagnose PLC/HMI issues (Allen-Bradley preferred) and perform minor logic edits as needed.
• Interpret electrical schematics and mechanical drawings for efficient repairs.
• Maintain accurate maintenance logs, CMMS records, and documentation for all system changes.
• Support engineering with process improvements, automation upgrades, and line modifications.
• Train operators and mechanics on proper equipment operation and troubleshooting.
• Uphold all food safety, sanitation, and lockout/tagout procedures.
• Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting on automated machinery and control systems
• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to optimize system performance and minimize downtime.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

HS Diploma or GED 2+ years if automation, controls, or industrial maintenance in a manufacturing environment (food industry preferred) Strong mechanical/electrical troubleshooting skills for automated machinery. Experience with sensors, servos, robotics, pneumatics, and conveyor

• driven systems. Ability to work independently on a 3pm
• 1:30am shift Knowledge of food manufacturing safety and sanitation processes.

QUALIFICATIONS PREFERRED

Associates Degree or higher in Mechatronics, Industrial Maintenance, Automation, or related field, Experience in confectionary production processes. Familiarity with VFD's, SCADA, vision inspection, and robotics Strong understanding of temperature control, viscocity, cooling, and other food processing variables. Knowledge of vision systems, servo systems, and machine safety standards. Ability to write or modify ladder logic, function blocks, or structured text programs. Experience with data logging, OEE systems, or manufacturing analytics tools.

Pay:

$85,000.00

• $100,000.

00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) 3% Match Dental insurance Employee assistance program Employee discount Flexible spending account Health insurance Life insurance Professional development assistance Referral program Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person