Automation Technician (1st, 2nd, or 3rd Shift) – Kansas City

Company Overview
Our client is a top producer of synthetic materials for the auto sector, with a four-decade history of innovative offerings in manufacturing, TPE resources, processing, and composite engineering.

Position Summary

Installation, diagnosis, enhancement, and maintenance of automated systems within a plastic injection setting are the primary duties of the Automation Technician role. This position ensures that production efficiency is optimized by backing robotic, PLC-directed machinery, and supplementary automation, all while adhering to safety, quality, and IATF 16949 guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Addressing and resolving:
• Robots (Fanuc, Wittman, Sepro, Viper)
• End-of-arm accessories (EOAT)
• Conveyors and component transport systems
• Diagnosing PLCs, HMI units, sensors, and drives
• Executing preventative and predictive maintenance activities
• Aiding in PLC coding (Allen-Bradley, Siemens)
• Sustaining robot programming and cycle time enhancements
• Interpreting electrical layouts and ladder logic
• Promoting continual enhancement (decreasing waste, increasing uptime)
• Conducting root cause analysis (RCA) and remedial actions
• Rapid response to downtime situations
• Assisting in mold conversions and automation configurations
• Collaborating with production, quality, and engineering departments
• Ensuring compliance with OSHA and plant safety regulations
• Contributing to IATF 16949 quality systems

Basic Qualifications

• Completion of associate degree or technical certification (preferable)
• Experience of 2–5+ years in automation (preference for automotive sector)
• Strong desire for prior injection molding experience
• Knowledge of:
• PLC systems (Allen-Bradley, Siemens)
• Robotic systems
• Electrical systems (24V, 120V, 480V)
• Sensors, vision systems, servo drives
• Effective troubleshooting and problem-solving capabilities
• Excellent communication skills

Physical Requirements

• Standing, walking, bending, kneeling, ladder climbing
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Working in an industrial manufacturing environment

Working Conditions

• Industrial setting with fluctuating temperatures
• Exposure to noise, heat, and moving machinery
• Working with injection molding and automation stations
• Potential for overtime and weekend shifts based on demand

Compensation & Benefits

• Healthcare coverage including Medical, Dental, Vision
• 401(k) plan with employer matching
• Paid time off for holidays and vacations
• Opportunities for career advancement

Key Differences Between Shifts

1️⃣ 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.

2️⃣ Operational Expectations by Shift (Implied, Not Explicitly Stated)

1st Shift (Days)

• More interaction with:
• Engineering
• Management
• Continuous improvement teams
• More involvement in:
• Projects
• Process improvements
• Meetings

2nd Shift (Afternoons)

• Transition shift between day and night
• Balanced mix of:
• Troubleshooting
• Some project carryover
• Less management presence than 1st shift

3rd Shift (Nights)

• Heavy focus on:
• Troubleshooting </li