The Electrical Controls Specialist (Automation) provides advanced technical support to maintenance and operations teams, focusing on troubleshooting, automation systems, and improving equipment reliability. This role is responsible for developing solutions to recurring process and equipment issues, supporting outage planning, and leading continuous improvement initiatives in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
Numbers & Facts
Location
Knoxville, TN
Description
Electrical Controls Specialist (Automation) Alcoa, TN (100% Onsite) Full Time The Electrical Controls Specialist (Automation) provides advanced technical support to maintenance and operations teams, focusing on troubleshooting, automation systems, and improving equipment reliability. This role is responsible for developing solutions to recurring process and equipment issues, supporting outage planning, and leading continuous improvement initiatives in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
Automation & Controls
Install, program, and troubleshoot PLC systems (Allen Bradley Logix5000)
Work with AC/DC drives and motor control systems
Support automation systems and electrical controls
Troubleshooting & Technical Support
Diagnose and resolve equipment and process issues
Provide technical leadership to maintenance and craft teams
Respond to production issues and restore operational flow
Maintenance & Reliability
Support short- and long-term outage planning
Assist with preventive and predictive maintenance systems
Coordinate lockout/tagout procedures and safety compliance
Continuous Improvement & Projects
Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives
Develop and implement capital projects and system upgrades
Assist in justification and implementation of new equipment
Collaboration & Support
Work cross-functionally with maintenance, engineering, and production teams
Provide training and technical guidance to plant personnel
Support process engineering and maintenance operations
Required Qualifications
High School Diploma or GED
Minimum 5+ years of experience in electrical systems and controls in industrial environments
Strong PLC programming and troubleshooting experience
Authorization to work in the U.S. (No visa sponsorship available)
Preferred Qualifications
Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a technical field
Experience in manufacturing or heavy industrial environments
Experience with failure analysis (FMEA, RCM, SPC, TQM)
Familiarity with instrumentation and HART communication
Controls or technical certifications
Required Skills
Strong PLC programming and troubleshooting
Knowledge of automation systems and industrial controls