Position: Field Service Engineer (PLC Programming Oriented)
Location: Remote (preferably located in the Midwest; ideally within 90 minutes of a major airport). Travel to German HQ approx. twice a year.
About Our Client:
Our client company is the US subsidiary of a leading German-based manufacturing company known for its precision engineering and innovative automation solutions. With over 20 years of industry experience, they offer comprehensive services ranging from initial installation to production support, maintenance, and servicing. Renowned for their heavy-duty, fully automated systems, the company caters to North American demand, specializing in automation solutions for intralogistics and automated systems. The US subsidiary, established since February 2023, focuses on serving the North American market with a strong presence in the semiconductor and solar technology industries.
Position summary:
The Field Service Engineer will be responsible for machine installation, programming, electrical work, and providing exceptional customer service. The ideal candidate has a specialization in PLC programming, along with a solid grasp of mechanics and electrical work. Additionally, candidates should have a solid understanding of automation systems, commissioning, troubleshooting, and optimization. New hires will undergo a comprehensive training program as part of their onboarding. This role requires a high degree of independence, as the technician will often work remotely and autonomously at customer sites.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead machinery installation and commissioning at customer sites, ensuring adherence to standards.
- Execute PLC programming tasks, troubleshooting as needed.
- Optimize machine performance through sensor adjustments and system enhancements.
- Resolve technical issues promptly to minimize downtime and maintain operational efficiency.
- Foster strong client relationships by providing exceptional service and support throughout projects.
- Drive system improvements by implementing software upgrades and hardware modifications.
- Provide comprehensive training to clients on machine operation and maintenance procedures.
- Maintain accurate documentation of all activities and stay updated on industry trends and best practices.
- Be present on-site during critical phases of the project to assist with installation, configuration, and initial operation, and provide practical, on-the-job training and demonstrations to ensure the client's engineers and team can effectively operate and maintain the systems.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Proficiency in PLC programming, including Allen Bradley Logix and Guard Logix systems, including structured text, and ladder programming.
- Knowledge of automation systems, including system automation principles, commissioning of machinery, troubleshooting technical issues, optimizing machine performance, and developing and implementing changes to improve system functionality.
- Familiarity with Fanuc robots is desirable but not essential.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently.
- Excellent communication and customer service skills.
- A willingness to travel domestically and internationally as needed.
- Valid driver's license.
Top Skills
What We Do
AHK USA is one of the largest bilateral trade organizations worldwide. With 2,500 member companies and office locations in Atlanta, Chicago and New York as well as branch offices in Houston, Philadelphia and San Francisco, the members and clients of AHK USA benefit from a nationwide service network.
At 120 locations in 80 countries around the world, the German Chamber network (AHK) offers experience, connections and services to German and foreign companies. The service portfolio of the AHKs was unified worldwide under the brand name DEinternational. DEinternational simplifies the international comparison of the different AHK services especially for mediumsized companies.
The German American Chamber of Commerce® (GACC™) New York fosters the economic ties between Germany and America. Founded in 1947 it now also comprises branch offices in Philadelphia and California.
