AGS Automotive Systems is a full-service automotive supplier specializing in the manufacture and supply of complex high value-add automotive metal components, including in particular front and rear impact assemblies, principally for pick-ups and the heavy truck market. AGS offers full range of in-house capabilities including design and engineering, high tonnage metal stamping, light weighting solutions, innovative multi-material joining, high performance coatings including chrome plating and automated manufacturing processes.

AGS is committed to delivering high quality, high value products to our customers, who include several of North America's largest automakers. For over 70 years AGS has stood behind our belief in quality, technology, and teamwork.

AGS Automotive Systems is proud to support the full inclusion of persons with disabilities as set out in the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005. At AGS we are committed to ensuring the workplace is free from discrimination. Accommodations for disabilities in relation to the job selection process are available upon request by contacting AGS Human Resources at [email protected].

As an equal opportunity employer, and in accordance with all applicable legislation, the Company prohibits any form of harassment or discrimination in the workplace. This applies to all aspects of employment. All employees must be treated equally without discrimination based on matters such as race, citizenship, creed, sexual orientation, gender expression, age, or disability.

Job Summary

The Automation Technician is responsible for the effective and efficient delivery of duties and responsibilities as outlined below in accordance with AGS' cultural priorities.

The duties and responsibilities listed below are not meant to be all-encompassing. As business needs change, this list may be adapted. It is expected that the incumbent will participate in meetings, on teams and projects to collectively achieve our priorities.

BASIC FUNCTION

Provide technical and electrical assistance & support with the coordination aspects of new installations of automation, implementing retrofits, migrations with existing automation, updating controls, re-working specialized equipment and special projects as they arise. Provide electrical / technical troubleshooting, analytical data gathering and interpretation for electronic and electrical controls on a plant wide basis. Candidate will provide Engineering documents and reports, be able to update electrical documentation and drawings in 2D Autocad as minimum.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSBILITIES

• Co-ordinate/Assist/Support the installations of automation equipment for new products and internal product launches. Participate in selected projects, trials and tests to optimize productivity and explore the feasibility for new business products and methods. Contribute at the planning stages and execute work with plant staff, external contractors and corporate representatives to achieve objectives and project completions.
  • Work with PLC tools such as AB RS Logix 5/500/5000 for online and offline support of AB Controllers PLC5/SLC500 and Control Logix 5000 automation controllers.
  • Programming Changes to existing rung ladder logic programs and routines.
  • Work with an automation integrators and Internal Engineering to implement automation projects within in the plant.
  • Source various components/modules/and other devices for critical spare management
  • Work with various software such as Windows Office Suites of tools, RS Logix 5/500/5000 and Panel builder, Factory Talk, Auto Cad (2D is minimum)
  • Commissioning, Configuring, Parameter development and backing up new and existing drive components (Siemens G-120 series, Legacy Simoreg, Emerson Qauntum and AB power flex series preferred)
• Analyze, test, troubleshoot, and monitor automated and electronic production components such as computerized equipment, control instrumentation, test equipment, by applying principles and theories of electronics, circuitry, engineering mathematics, electronic and electrical testing, analog and digital devices.
  • Proficient use of Multimeters, Ammeters, MegaOhmeter, Milliohmeter and other physical measurement devices as required
  • Ensure electrical systems and equipment meet codes, regulations, guidelines, and requirements including the Electrical Safety Authority, Canadian Standards Association, Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act, etc.
  • Analyze performance and test data for electrical and electronic equipment in the plant to determine effectiveness and efficiency. Monitor data to detect changes in operational performance, trends and efficiency in comparison with manufacturers' and production specifications, etc.
  • Test, troubleshoot and diagnose causes of malfunction or failure of any/all plant electrical equipment. Make recommendations for corrective action.
  • Make recommendations for modifications, service, maintenance, and replacement where necessary.
  • Prepare materials in case of unplanned repairs, installations, overhauls, etc.
  • Write reports and make recommendations for repairs, equipment improvements
  • Work with all staff to achieve objectives.
• Program and maintain robotic systems and software.
  • Ensure regular program backups are kept up to date at fixed intervals and stored on server repository areas.
  • Assist with maintenance scheduling to ensure the robot continues to operate properly.
  • Teach points using pendants, axis calibrations, EOAT alignments, etc, to optimize unit performance and prevent damage to our products.
  • Maintain critical spares levels and/or source replacement parts as required.
• Electrical systems design.
  • Programming PLC & Other logic CPU system's for functions such as sequence and timing control, control limits and process test variables.
  • Designing and Cad drawings of control panels, schematics, I/O diagrams, layouts, etc.
• Internal Projects:
  • Provide assistance & support to the Engineering department and Skilled Trades staff on internal project work.
  • Work with plant electricians, offer assistance to resolve issues, and ensure work complies with project plans, drawings, codes, and all regulatory requirements.
  • Complete the ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) deficiency work and signoffs as required.

• Requires working under the general direct of Engineering management to provide expertise in operations of electrical and automation equipment operating within established technical parameters and standards.
• Requires some in-depth analysis, planning and making recommendations that affect large-scale production processes.
• Requires planning activities to address short-term, long-term (annual), and emergency events.
• Requires responding to unusual or sudden demands for action to protect production and customer deliveries.
• Requires establishing good working relationships with maintenance staff, vendors, contractors, and regulatory agents (such as electrical inspectors)

SKILL

• 2-year Technician or 3 year Technologist diploma in a related field from a recognized post-secondary school institution.
• Asset: if also Industrial Electrician 442A Licensed (or senior apprentice may be considered)
• Minimum 3 years experience installing and troubleshooting industrial electronic /electrical controls and automation would be an asset.
• ABB & Fanuc experience is an asset.
• Proficiency in industry related software programs, programmable control systems and robotic controls.
• Design Experience with Electrical systems is required.
• Demonstrated ability in mathematics, related sciences, and reading drawings, schematics and engineering reference material.
• Three Phase and Single Phase AC VFD's (variable frequency drive) and Large HP DC drives experience is an asset.
• Knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic controls is an asset.
• Demonstrated ability in analytical reasoning and systematic problem solving.
• Good verbal and written communication skills

EFFORT

• Requires sitting for long periods of time to use a computer.
• Requires walking and climbing on a regular basis when in the plant to examine equipment operation
• Requires concentration to analyze, evaluate, reason, define and resolve problems systematically
• Effort spent on problem solving, trials and tests often involves time pressures and intensity to complete tasks as per the target timeline.
• Requires occasional light duty lifting

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Requires working in an office setting and making regular visits throughout the industrial plant to monitor equipment, discuss operations with staff, gather data for analysis, and resolve problems.
• Requires wearing personal protective equipment (safety footwear, hearing protection, safety glasses, Arcflash PPE) in appropriate areas.
• Some risk of direct exposure to grease, temperature, noise, chemicals (fluid and solids)