Automation and Controls Technician

The role

This person helps install, wire, test and maintain PLC-based control systems, robotic work cells, electrical cabinets and field instruments. The work supports solid rocket motor and energetic materials manufacturing at Voyager Energetics. The role works under senior engineers and offers a path to more autonomy.

What you will do

• Assist with installation, wiring and commissioning of PLC-based control systems and robotic systems under senior engineer guidance.
• Build, wire and quality-check electrical cabinets; run field wiring and conduit per NEC and UL508A, including in classified hazardous areas.
• Support troubleshooting of electrical faults and control system malfunctions using multimeters, meggers and diagnostic software.
• Assist with plant networking for sensors, valves, PLCs and control room systems using 4–20 mA and Ethernet protocols.
• Perform routine and preventive maintenance, calibration checks and commissioning support for new installations.
• Maintain as-built schematics, bills of materials, calibration records and maintenance logs.
• Follow safety, environmental and explosive ordnance handling protocols, including lockout/tagout and arc flash boundaries.
• Support installation and maintenance of automated mixing, dispensing and processing systems used in propellant formulation and assembly.
• Help troubleshoot production equipment during energetics campaigns, including mixing, casting, scales and environmental monitoring instruments.
• Report irregularities, safety incidents or nonconforming conditions promptly to supervision.

Required qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent, or 1–3 years of hands-on experience in industrial electrical, controls or automation work in lieu of a degree.
• Basic mechanical and electrical aptitude with hand tools, power tools and electrical test equipment.
• Ability to read electrical schematics, wiring diagrams and basic ladder logic, and follow written work instructions.
• Working knowledge of lockout/tagout, arc flash awareness and general OSHA electrical safety requirements.
• Strong attention to detail and disciplined adherence to procedures.
• Basic computer and data entry proficiency (Word, Excel or ERP system).
• Strong teamwork, communication and eagerness to learn.
• Completion of DoD Explosives Safety or equivalent in-house safety training within the first 30 days of employment.
• Eligible to obtain and maintain State and Federal explosives licenses.
• Be 21 years of age or older.
• Pass pre-employment drug test and State and Federal background checks.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and to stand, walk, climb, kneel, crouch and crawl for extended periods.

Nice to have

• Exposure to PLC programming environments (Codesys, TwinCAT or similar) or basic structured text or ladder logic coursework.
• Familiarity with robotic systems, machine vision or sensor/actuator wiring in manufacturing.
• Experience in defense, aerospace, energetics or other hazardous manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, 5S and continuous improvement.
• Associate’s degree or certificate in Electrical Technology, Industrial Automation, Mechatronics or a related field.

Benefits

• Flexible Time Off (FTO).
• Medical, dental and vision coverage for employees and families, with company-paid premium portion.
• Gym memberships with 12,700+ options nationwide and on-demand workout videos.
• 401(k) with 50% company match on contributions up to 8%.
• Company wellness programs for physical and mental well-being.
• Additional voluntary benefits and employee support resources.
• Work alongside a highly talented team in an innovative, mission-driven environment.

Before you apply

• Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident or protected individual) to comply with ITAR and EAR.
• Must be 21 or older and meet eligibility to obtain state and federal explosives licenses.
• Pass a pre-employment drug test and State and Federal background checks.
• Completion of DoD Explosives Safety or equivalent training is required within 30 days of starting.

About the company

Voyager Technologies is a space, defense and national security technology company. Its Voyager Energetics unit runs solid rocket motor and energetic materials manufacturing operations.