Automation Technician - Batching Systems

Our team members are at the heart of everything we do. At Cencora, we are united in our responsibility to create healthier futures, and every person here is essential to us being able to deliver on that purpose. If you want to make a difference at the center of health, come join our innovative company and help us improve the lives of people and animals everywhere. Apply today! Job Details This role is in support of Cencora's distribution services in the US operating through our AmerisourceBergen business. Remote – Amarillo, TX Region (KS / CO / NE Considered) Summary of Role: The Batching Systems Automation Technician is responsible for installing, configuring, maintaining, and supporting industrial automation systems used in production animal operations (primarily dairy and feedlot). These systems control the batching and delivery of feed ingredients and additives and represent mission-critical infrastructure. This role requires a cross-disciplinary skill set spanning industrial automation , electrical systems , livestock production , networking , and various software environments. Technicians must be capable of independently troubleshooting hardware, software, and mechanical systems under time-sensitive conditions, both remotely and in active industrial environments. The position is primarily remote but requires frequent travel to rural customer facilities for installation, troubleshooting, repair, and training. This position operates at the intersection of industrial automation and production agriculture and requires strong independent judgment and problem-solving ability. Responsibilities: Install, configure, and support PLC-based batching and control systems Integrate automation systems with scales, flow meters, pumps, augers, and other batching equipment Support integration between batching software and field equipment Diagnose and resolve automation and control system faults Work Environment & Expectations: Combination of remote/office and agricultural facilities in all weather conditions Frequent travel to rural customer locations (company vehicle provided) Travel requirements: Up to 50% during initial training (home location dependent) Approximately 25% ongoing Participation in a rotating 24/7 on-call support schedule Electrical and Communications Systems Applying working knowledge of: 120V / 240V / 480V AC systems (single and three-phase power) 12V / 24V DC control systems Relays, switches, contactors, circuit protection, and UPS devices RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 serial networks Ethernet configurations in high-interference environments 900 MHz radio systems (client/server configurations) Build and repair communication cabling and connections Interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams Diagnose and troubleshoot electrical issues both on-site and remotely Coordinate with millwrights, electricians, plumbers, and other tradespeople Work safely in industrial environments with heavy equipment and electrical hazards Software Systems & Data Infrastructure Install, operate, and support system control software on Linux-based systems Support system updates, configuration changes, and software deployments Utilize command-line tools to monitor and troubleshoot system behavior Work with SQL databases using query tools and management software Support Java-based applications and related services Analyze and interpret time-series system logs to diagnose system behavior Technical Support & Customer Training Deliver training to operators and other key personnel on system use and workflows Assist customers in diagnosing software, electrical, and automation issues Provide real-time technical support during active operations Communicate effectively with users of varying technical backgrounds Utilize bilingual skills or translation tools when necessary Quality Assurance & System Auditing Assist in verifying batching accuracy and system performance Monitor system operations including timing, sequencing, and communication Prepare accurate and actionable reports of system observations Required Qualifications Associate’s degree in Agricultural Engineering, Precision Agriculture, Electrical Engineering, Animal Science, Industrial Technology, or related technical field -OR- Completion of technical trade school or apprenticeship training in electrical systems, automation, or industrial technology 1 – 3 years of experience in one or more of the following: Agricultural operations Industrial automation and networking PLC systems Electrical systems Proficiency in: Troubleshooting hardware/software systems Professional communication (verbal and written) Preferred Qualifications Bachelor’s degree Bilingual Spanish Experience with: Livestock operations and high-volume feed batching Industrial communications (serial, radio, etc.) Linux operating systems SQL databases Key Competencies Technical troubleshooting and problem-solving Ability to work independently in field environments Strong communication and customer support skills Attention to detail in system analysis Additional Requirements Valid driver’s license Ability to pass background and drug screening Ability to travel and work safely in outdoor/industrial environments Ability to lift equipment and work around machinery Education: Typically requires an Associates’ Degree or equivalent from two-year college or technical school or six months to one year related experience or a combination of education and experience. Strong planning, problem-solving, decision-making skills are required. Ability to build relationships with customers is critical. Ability to travel is required. Flexibility is work schedule is required to serve on weekend call rotation. Skills and Knowledge: Speak Effectively : Speaks effectively in individual or group situations (e.g., meetings, presentations, interviews) including appropriate nonverbal communications; able to recognize and present information to others; recognizes different methods for communicating the same information and selects the best method; strives for positive high impact delivery. Customer Service : Is customer oriented, sensitive and responsive to customer needs and priorities; establishes effective working relationships with customers and gains their respect and loyalty; identifies and takes appropriate action on customer needs. Know the Organization : Understands the company’s objectives; knows the structure of the organization; works effectively within the organization to achieve results; works continuously to make linkages and build networks within the organization. Know the Customer and the Market : Knows customers in the market territory; keeps up to date on key competitors; understands and is responsive to the needs and expectations of relevant customer segments; establishes effective working relationships with customers to gain respect and loyalty; identifies opportunities presented by changes and shifts in the marketplace. Build Quality Service : Defines quality service based on customer needs, wants, expectations and profitability; aligns actions accordingly; remains sensitive and responsive to both internal and external customers; builds distinctive predictable levels of service; resolves problems quickly and effectively. Know the Product : Displays knowledge and proficiency in explaining, selling, and administering products; refers customers to appropriate resources within the organization. Maintain Technological Expertise : Keeps informed of technological advances affecting the industry; recognizes/identifies appropriate and effective technological applications for use by the company; applies internal technology to effective advantage. Mathematics: Resolves practical problems by choosing the appropriate mathematical technique (percentages, formulas, etc.); uses quantitative data to construct logical explanations for real world situations; expresses mathematical ideas and concepts verbally and in writing; understands the role of chance in the occurrence and prediction of events. Reasoning : Discovers the underlying relationship between two or more objects and uses that knowledge to solve a problem; uses logic to draw conclusions from available information; identifies general rules or principles; applies rules and principles to new situations; determines which conclusions are correct from analysis of a given set of facts and information. Demonstrate Interpersonal Skills : Communicates in an open, straight forward, honest and respectful style; checks for message clarity; understands the effect the communication style has on others, including nonverbal communications; plans for and adapts to the wide variety of communication preferences and needs of others. What Cencora offers We provide compensation, benefits, and resources that enable a highly inclusive culture and support our team members’ ability to live with purpose every day. In addition to traditional offerings like medical, dental, and vision care, we also provide a comprehensive suite of benefits that focus on the physical, emotional, financial, and social aspects of wellness. This encompasses support for working families, which may include backup dependent care, adoption assistance, infertility coverage, family building support, behavioral health solutions, paid parental leave, and paid caregiver leave. To encourage your personal growth, we also offer a variety of training programs, professional development resources, and opportunities to participate in mentorship programs, employee resource groups, volunteer activities, and much more. For details, visit https://www.virtualfairhub.com/cencora Full time Salary Range* $57,900 - 85,360 *This Salary Range reflects a National Average for this job. The actual range may vary based on your locale. Ranges in Colorado/California/Washington/New York/Hawaii/Vermont/Minnesota/Massachusetts/Illinois State-specific locations may be up to 10% lower than the minimum salary range, and 12% higher than the maximum salary range. Equal Employment Opportunity Cencora is committed to providing equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or membership in any other class protected by federal, state or local law. The company’s continued success depends on the full and effective utilization of qualified individuals. Therefore, harassment is prohibited and all matters related to recruiting, training, compensation, benefits, promotions and transfers comply with equal opportunity principles and are non-discriminatory. Cencora is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities during the employment process which are consistent with legal requirements. If you wish to request an accommodation while seeking employment, please call 888.692.2272 or email [email protected] . We will make accommodation determinations on a request-by-request basis. Messages and emails regarding anything other than accommodations requests will not be returned . Affiliated Companies: Affiliated Companies: MWI Veterinary Supply Company