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PLC Technician

Saputo · Waupun, WI · Full time

Posted Aug 17, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a time you made a change to PLC or HMI logic. How did you test it and document it?

What they are checking: Whether they manage changes carefully with backups, testing and notes so the next tech is not left guessing.

Tell me about a pneumatic or hydraulic control problem you solved.

What they are checking: Whether they can troubleshoot mechanical control systems, not only the electrical and software side.

How do you explain a technical failure to a supervisor who is not technical and just wants to know when the line is back?

What they are checking: Whether they can communicate cause and timeline clearly to non-technical people.

What do you do to keep your automation skills current?

What they are checking: Whether they keep learning as robotics and controls change, which keeps a night shift tech effective.

What would you do

Production asks you to bypass a safety interlock so a line can keep running. What do you say?

What they are checking: Whether they refuse to defeat safety devices and offer a safe path forward instead.

How do you work with contractors and vendors on a new automation project in a running plant?

What they are checking: Whether they can coordinate outside parties while protecting food safety and production.

About the work

Which PLC platforms have you programmed and troubleshot, and how deep did you go with them?

What they are checking: Whether they can actually edit and debug logic, not just read it, on the platforms a plant like this runs.

A robot cell stops on a jam alarm several times a night. How do you find the root cause?

What they are checking: Whether they use alarm history, I/O status and observation to fix the cause, which the posting asks for directly.

Walk me through how you would replace and configure an RTD or pressure transmitter feeding a PLC.

What they are checking: Whether they understand scaling, wiring and calibration so the new instrument reports correct values to the control system.

How does NFPA 70E change the way you work inside a live panel?

What they are checking: Whether they know arc flash boundaries, PPE and when live work is justified, rather than treating it as paperwork.

You are on nights alone and a fiber optic sensor on a packaging line keeps dropping out. What do you check?

What they are checking: Whether they work through alignment, contamination, cable damage and settings in a sensible order.

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The full job description

As published by Saputo.

At Saputo, we bring good to the table by making high-quality products, investing in our people, and supporting communities around the world . As a top 10 global dairy processor, we value contributions that matter and strive to foster an inclusive, growth-driven work environment. Ready to bring your best? The PLC Technician position is responsible for keeping our advanced automation systems running smoothly. Your expertise will help ensure efficient, safe, and reliable operations during our night shift. How you will make contributions that matter... • Performs duties to install, test, maintain, inspect, modify, and repair all automation equipment, components and controls systems using a thorough knowledge of electronics, robotics, fiber optic sensors, and pneumatic-hydraulic controls. • Abide all regulations required by NEC, NFPA 70 E, and State requirements; • Coordinate with contractors and vendors to maintain plant operations as well as new project support; • Perform instrument control programming and configuration to include pressure/temperature transmitters, RTD’s, PLC, HMI’s and other controls logic devices. • Trouble shoots and diagnoses cause of electronic or mechanical malfunctions using knowledge, manuals, SOPs, specifications and other workplace aids. Identifies root cause and corrective actions for equipment and system alarms and jams. Communicates directly with equipment suppliers, contractors and vendors as necessary. • Resolves and repairs all system faults and anomalies associated with installation, operation, maintenance, and connectivity problems, including changes, adjustments, and modifications to control code and standard operating parameters. Complete system updates and debugs PLC, HMI, and other controls logic software that supports devices. • Makes recommendations for product software and hardware selection and upgrades. • Uses computers, precision measuring instruments, hand and/or power tools and electrical repair or modification tools. • Performs routine preventative and corrective maintenance and testing on equipment. Performs a large variety of tests on all electrical and electronic systems. Dismantles, cleans, repairs and tests electrical, electronic and mechanical components. Heavy coordination with engineers and external sources for timely repairs or replacement of parts to ensure machine downtime is minimal. Maintains preventative maintenance logs and accurate records of all testing and repairs. • Coordinates with team members to coordinate on-site installation of automation equipment. Exercising independent discretion, examining layout and anticipating difficulties and challenges. Based on technical expertise, recommends and implements improvements. • Provides guidance and maintenance training to production supervisors, manufacturing engineers, and maintenance mechanics in the operation, repair, maintenance, and logistics support of machinery and equipment. • Follow and promote all health and safety rules, regulations and practices. Locks out equipment for proper and safe handling and servicing. • Troubleshoot problems with plant instrumentation and automation equipment to include but not limited to: valves; pressure; temperature; level, flow, conductivity, speed, force instruments; motor controls; PLC’s, HMI’s, etc.; • Calibrate plant instruments to include but not limited to: valves; pressure, temperature, level, flow, pH, conductivity, weight, force and speed instruments; • Work together with co-workers and other department personnel. • Adhere to the Saputo code of ethics and actively apply the Saputo values. • Performs other duties as assigned. You are best suited for the role if you… • High School Diploma or GED. AS degree in industrial controls technologies or related field or 3-5 years’ experience in instrumentation/automation field.- or a combination of education and experience. • PLC, HMI or DCS certifications is preferred; • Calibration experience is a plus; • H.A.R.T. communication experience is a plus; • CMMS Software experience is preferred; • Must have advanced level understanding of automated control systems and integration, electronics, robotics, fiber optic sensors, pneumatic-hydraulic controls, HMI touch panels, and PLC programming; • Ability to work a flexible schedule; We support and care for our employees by providing them with… • Development opportunities that enhance you career fulfillment • Meaningful compensation & benefits that help you care for your family • Opportunities to contribute to your community and enhance the lives of others through Saputo products Additional Job Description Salary range: The pay range for this position starts at $41.14 per hour, with an increase to $42.14 per hour after six months of satisfactory performance. In the USA, Saputo ranks among the top three cheese producers and is one of the top producers of extended shelf-life and cultured dairy products, with a portfolio of well-loved brands such as Stella, Frigo Cheese, Montchevre , Stella, and Treasure Cave. We also boast a strong foodservice presence, partnering with reputable chain restaurants and broadline distributors. Whether your expertise lies in manufacturing, operations, supply chain, sales, quality assurance, or in any other function, your role is integral to our success. You will make contributions that matter, all while working alongside colleagues who genuinely care about your success and who will roll up their sleeves to help. Accessibility Saputo Cheese USA Inc. endeavors to make Saputo.com/careers accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Human Resources at 214-863-2300 or email us.recruitingsupport@saputo.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications. EEO Saputo Cheese USA Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you'd like more information on your EEO rights under law, please visit www.EEOC.gov. California Applicant Privacy Notice (CCPA) To review the Saputo Cheese USA Inc. Privacy Notice for California applicants, please visit our Corporate website associated section by clicking here (English) or here (Spanish).

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