Process Automation Technician – PLC / DCS-hemlocksem

Job Description

Job Title: Process Automation Technician – PLC / DCS

Company: hemlocksem

Location: Hemlock, MI

Pay: $76560 – 105270 per year

AI Pay Analysis: The hourly rate for the role of “Process Automation Technician – PLC / DCS” in Hemlock, MI, which translates to an annual salary range of approximately $76,560 to $105,270, appears competitive and aligns well with industry standards for similar positions. Salaries for process automation technicians can vary significantly based on experience, education, and specific industry demands, but national averages typically range from $60,000 to $90,000 per year. The upper end of this range suggests that Hemlock’s compensation is favorable, especially considering the technical skills required for PLC (Programmable Logic Controllers) and DCS (Distributed Control Systems) work. Additionally, this role may offer other benefits, making it attractive in a market where skilled technicians are increasingly sought after.

Job description:

At Hemlock Semiconductor (HSC), we are dedicated to transforming lives by energizing and connecting the world through cutting-edge silicon technology. Founded in 1961, HSC is a premier global provider of hyper-pure polysilicon, proudly being the only polysilicon manufacturer headquartered in the United States. Our contributions are vital to both the semiconductor and solar industries, with a vision of becoming the preferred supplier of silicon-enabled technologies that support a low-carbon and digital future.

Our polysilicon serves as the key material for making semiconductor wafers, the essential components powering the “brains” of the electronic devices that enhance our daily lives, ensuring safety, convenience, and enjoyment. As one of only six major global manufacturers of polysilicon used in semiconductor production, nearly every electronic device worldwide incorporates HSC polysilicon.

In addition to our role in the semiconductor industry, we are committed to advancing a sustainable future by supporting the rapidly expanding solar power sector. HSC is steadfast in our commitment to positively impact our local Michigan community and the global landscape, continuously striving to enhance our operations and reduce carbon emissions throughout our supply chain. The low embodied greenhouse gas emissions in our polysilicon enable the production of ultra-low-carbon solar panels, empowering solar project developers to reduce the embodied carbon of their projects by up to 50 percent.

To achieve our ambitious objectives, we rely on the diverse talents of over 1,350 employees and contractors. Our culture promotes teamwork, excellence, accountability, and a strong customer focus, valuing the rich variety of backgrounds and experiences that our staff brings to our collective mission. At HSC, you are part of a dynamic team that is actively reshaping our world.

Summary
The Process Automation Technician plays a critical role in executing process control projects, managing work notifications, and spearheading continuous improvement initiatives to achieve excellence in the automation of chemical manufacturing processes. Technicians serve as the first line of defense in troubleshooting automation configurations and hardware issues, and they are instrumental in maintaining the application logic of both production and engineering automation systems.

Essential Functions

• Serve as the primary troubleshooter for control systems (logic and hardware), minimizing production disruptions and ensuring operational continuity.
• Collaborate in planning and coordinating automation work, including project implementation, work notifications, and team-driven objectives.
• Work cohesively with other site resources (PLC/electrical/instrumentation) to achieve complementary activities.
• Identify opportunities for process control enhancements and collaborate with operations staff to implement automation improvements that facilitate plant operations.
• Collaborate with project teams to implement capital and expense projects involving automation elements.
• Adhere to operational discipline documentation, including SOPs, SMPs, SWIs, SKPs, and approved workflows relevant to team procedures.
• Be available for 24/7 support as required, including after-hours on-call rotation and live support for startup/restart activities.

Additional Duties/Responsibilities

• Participate in Root Cause Investigations (RCI) related to operational discipline failures.
• Provide constructive feedback to the Operational Excellence and Training teams regarding instructional documentation for improvement and completeness.
• Engage in continuous improvement programs by generating and sharing ideas aimed at enhancing technologies and process operations, focusing on defect elimination and quality performance.

Skills

• Possess maturity and the ability to maintain a positive attitude during challenging situations and times of uncertainty.
• Demonstrate maturity in both giving and receiving feedback to foster organizational improvement.
• Exhibit an excellent understanding of HSC manufacturing automation platforms.
• Show proficiency in business computer applications such as SAP, Falcon, InTools, and the MS Office Suite.
• Have proficiency in the ABB 800xA distributed control system (DCS).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Possess exceptional knowledge of HSC processes, standards, and practices.

Required Work Experience

• Minimum of three years of relevant experience at HSC in roles such as:

  • Process Control Operator (PCO) utilizing DCS to operate plant processes.
  • PLC technician with transferable technical skills.
  • Instrument technician using DCS to install, maintain, and test instruments.
  • S&T technician operating S&T equipment via DCS.
  • IT/OT technician with applicable technical skills.
  • A strong understanding of process coupled with technical aptitude and motivation.
• Minimum of three years of non-HSC experience in roles such as:
  • Computer analyst.
  • Computer/controller programmer.
  • IT-related technical experience (cybersecurity, workstation, network, server).

Environment/Working Conditions

• This position requires a significant amount of time spent at individual computer workstations within an office setting and involves collaboration with team members.
• Physical activities include traveling to production facilities, navigating stairs, and transporting tools and equipment.
• Environmental conditions may expose employees to various weather conditions, hazardous chemicals, mechanical and electrical energy, necessitating the use of protective equipment, such as chemically resistant suits, respirators, face shields, goggles, boots, and rubber gloves.

Minimum Required Education/Certification
Required

• High school diploma or GED.
• Demonstrated computer proficiency.
• Successful completion of the HSC Work Keys Test.

Preferred

• Completion or active enrollment in one of the following associate degree programs:
  • Pre-engineering.
  • Computer science.
  • Information systems.
  • Chemical Process Technology.
  • Chemical Process Operator Fast Start.

Hiring Manager: Jason Gillis
The salary range for this position is $76,560.00 – $105,270.00 for full-time status, with starting pay determined by various job-related factors, including market conditions, experience, training, and education. Benefits may include medical, dental, vision, a 401(k) plan, variable bonuses, life insurance coverage, disability benefits, and paid time off, contingent upon hours worked.

HSC is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability status, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, ancestry, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. If you require accommodations during the application process due to a disability, please contact our Human Resources department at 989.301.5333 or via email at [email protected]. All qualified applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.

Job Posting Date: Sat, 08 Mar 2025 23:40:27 GMT

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