PLC Programmer

Job Description

Job Title: PLC Programmer

Location: Vicksburg Forest Products

Job Type: Full-Time

Department: Maintenance

Reports To: Maintenance Superintendent

FLSA: Exempt

Position Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled PLC Programmer with experience in industrial automation to join our team at Vicksburg Forest Products. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and associated control systems used in sawmill operations. This role plays a critical part in optimizing equipment performance, ensuring safety standards, and maximizing productivity.

Key Responsibilities:

Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC-based control systems for sawmill equipment and processes.

Implement automation solutions for material handling systems, log breakdown lines, saw lines, sorters, stackers, and other mill processes.

Collaborate with electrical and mechanical teams to integrate PLC systems with machinery and optimize performance.

Modify and upgrade existing control systems to improve efficiency and reduce downtime.

Develop and maintain detailed documentation including wiring diagrams, PLC code, and HMI screens.

Monitor system performance and provide preventative maintenance and real-time troubleshooting.

Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

Participate in commissioning of new equipment and upgrades during plant shutdowns or off-hours as needed.

Train maintenance and operations staff on system usage and troubleshooting.

Qualifications:

Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Automation, Industrial Technology, or related field.

3+ years of experience in PLC programming and troubleshooting, preferably in a sawmill or heavy industrial environment.

Strong knowledge of industrial automation hardware and software, including Allen-Bradley (ControlLogix, CompactLogix), Siemens S7, and HMI interfaces (FactoryTalk, WinCC, etc.).

Solid understanding of electrical schematics, industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, Profibus), and motor control systems (VFDs, servo systems).

Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced production environment.

Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

Excellent written and verbal communication.

Preferred Skills:

Experience with SCADA systems, industrial robotics, or vision systems.

Knowledge of sawmill equipment and processes such as debarkers, primary breakdowns, edgers, and trimmers.

Familiarity with safety systems including lockout/tagout, machine guarding, and safety PLCs.

Work Environment:

Industrial mill environment – exposure to noise, dust, and machinery.

Availability to support off-shift or weekend maintenance activities when necessary.

Salary: Competitive, based on experience

Benefits: Medical, Dental, 401(k), PTO

Full-time