Senior Automation Maintenance Technician

Cheney, Washington
Full-Time | Extensive U.S. & International Travel Required

About This Opportunity

Haakon is implementing advanced automated sheet metal fabrication systems, and we are looking for a technically strong, hands-on individual to help build and own this program long term.

This is not a traditional maintenance role.

This position will play a major role in the implementation, commissioning, troubleshooting, optimization, and long-term reliability of highly automated manufacturing equipment including CNC machinery, robotic systems, PLC-controlled automation, and material handling systems.

You will work closely with vendors, integrators, engineering, and production teams to help bring these systems online and support them long term. Over time, this person will become one of Haakon's primary internal experts on these systems.

This role requires significant travel, especially during implementation and training phases. The right person will enjoy learning new systems, solving difficult technical problems, and taking ownership in a fast-moving manufacturing environment.

What You'll Actually Be Doing

• Support implementation, startup, commissioning, and long-term maintenance of automated sheet metal fabrication equipment
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and automation-related issues
• Diagnose and repair PLC-controlled systems and automation components
• Maintain servo motors, drives, sensors, safety systems, and electrical control components
• Work closely with equipment manufacturers and integrators during installation and startup
• Perform preventive and predictive maintenance focused on maximizing uptime and reliability
• Respond quickly and effectively to equipment failures and production downtime
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, mechanical drawings, and technical manuals
• Help develop maintenance procedures, spare parts strategy, documentation, and long-term reliability standards
• Maintain accurate maintenance records using cloud-based CMMS systems
• Support continuous improvement efforts focused on automation reliability, efficiency, and safety

What Makes Someone Successful Here

• Strong troubleshooting ability across mechanical and electrical systems
• Curious, self-motivated, and eager to learn complex automated systems
• Comfortable taking ownership and solving problems independently
• Calm under pressure during breakdowns and startup challenges
• Strong communication and documentation skills
• Team-oriented with a continuous improvement mindset
• Willingness to travel extensively and support implementation efforts where needed

You do not need to be an expert in every system listed on day one. Strong technical aptitude, troubleshooting ability, and a willingness to learn are highly valued here.

Experience & Background

Preferred Experience

• Industrial maintenance, automation, controls, robotics, CNC equipment, mechatronics, or similar technical environments
• PLC troubleshooting experience with systems such as Beckhoff, Bosch-Rexroth, Siemens, Rockwell, or similar platforms
• Experience supporting automated manufacturing equipment or industrial automation systems
• Experience reading and interpreting electrical schematics and technical diagrams
• Experience with hydraulic and pneumatic systems
• Experience using CMMS platforms

Education

• Degree, diploma, or certification in Industrial Maintenance, Mechatronics, Electrical Technology, Automation, Engineering Technology, Millwrighting, or related field strongly preferred
• Equivalent hands-on experience may be considered for exceptionally strong candidates

Requirements

• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record
• Ability to travel extensively, including domestic and international travel

Travel Expectations

• Approximately 75% travel during the first year for training, implementation, and startup support
• Approximately 50% travel expected long term
• Travel will include Asheville, NC along with domestic and international training opportunities including Canada and Europe

Basics

• Full-time position based in Cheney, WA
• Manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, noise, and industrial equipment
• Overtime and schedule flexibility may occasionally be required during startup or implementation phases

Compensation & Benefits

Pay Range: $42.00-$55.00 per hour depending on experience, technical background, and qualifications.

Benefits include:

• Employer-paid medical and dental coverage
• Paid travel expenses and per diem
• Long-term career growth supporting major automation initiatives
• Stable manufacturing environment with significant investment in advanced equipment and technology
• Opportunity for international training and specialized technical development

Why This Role Stands Out

This is a rare opportunity to help build and support a major automation expansion from the ground floor.

We are looking for someone who enjoys solving complex technical problems, learning advanced systems, and becoming a long-term technical leader within a growing manufacturing operation.

Pro Tip

We receive a high volume of applicants. If you want to stand out, tell us a few sentences about what interested you in this opportunity and why you believe you would succeed in this type of environment.