Regional Automation Controls Specialist

Regional Automation Controls Specialist, Nairn Centre, Ontario

When you join our team as a Regional Automation Controls Specialist, you will be a key player in optimizing our cutting-edge automation systems across multiple facilities in the eastern region. If you’re passionate about industrial automation and want to work with a company that values your expertise and offers opportunities for growth, this is the role for you. This role will require regular travel within our Ontario operations with occassional travel to other company locations in Canada. We would consider candidates that lived in Sudbury, ON or surrounding cities within driving distance to our mill in Nairn Centre.

At Interfor we are committed to innovation and continuous improvement and our commitment to innovation means you’ll always be at the forefront of new technologies in industrial automation. We believe in fostering a supportive environment where
employees can thrive. We offer continuous learning opportunities through
workshops and on-site training.

What You’ll Do

Support Mill Operations

  • Lead troubleshooting efforts and provide training to mill controls and electrical teams to prevent future issues.
  • Fine-tune and configure equipment for peak performance.
  • Collaborate with vendors on installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of automation systems.
  • Coordinate upgrades and automation enhancements with mill personnel to ensure smooth operations.

Drive Capital Projects

  • Lead capital projects by coordinating internal resources and external suppliers for successful project execution.
  • Offer technical expertise during design, construction, and post-construction phases.
  • Review project scopes and recommend improvements to optimize outcomes.
  • Program PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, networking systems, and other control systems for seamless start-ups.

Innovate with New Technologies

  • Design, program, and commission industrial control systems including PLCs (e.g., Allen-Bradley/Rockwell), motion controls, HMIs, vision systems, and more.

Foster Collaboration & Build Relationships

  • Work closely with cross-functional teams to identify and resolve Controls-related challenges.
  • Build strong partnerships with mills, vendors, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.

Ensure Compliance & Safety

  • Adhere to government health, safety, and environmental regulations.
  • Follow all provincial guidelines related to electrical safety standards.

Continuous Learning & Development

  • Stay up-to-date with industry trends by attending workshops and training sessions.
  • Share your knowledge with peers to foster a culture of continuous improvement.

What You Offer

  • 3+ years of experience programming PLCs/HMIs or an equivalent combination of education/experience.
  • Post-secondary education in Electrical Engineering or Automation is preferred.
  • Experience commissioning electrical equipment within an industrial setting.
  • Familiarity with the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) is required; knowledge of hydraulics/pneumatics is an asset.
  • Previous supervisory experience is advantageous but not required.
  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work independently or within a team.
  • Excellent troubleshooting abilities to identify problems quickly and implement effective solutions.
  • Proficiency in Rockwell Software tools (RSLogix, Studio 5000) and FactoryTalk View.
  • Experience programming Allen-Bradley PLCs (ControlLogix) with familiarity in other platforms (e.g., Modicon, Omron).
  • Knowledge of VFD setup/configuration and motor control devices (e.g., SMCs, E300s).
  • Understanding of Ethernet/IP networking protocols used in industrial automation.
  • Competence in motion control systems (e.g., Delta RMC) including hydraulic/servo systems tuning.

Who We Are
Interfor is a growth-oriented forest products company, operating in all major forest products markets across North America. We offer one of the most diverse lines of wood products to customers around the globe, produced in safety-focused, world-class facilities. We strengthen and contribute to the local economies, build value for our employees and customers, and operate with world-leading sustainable forest management practices. We are proud to produce sustainable building materials that contribute to a healthy and sustainable future. Check out www.interfor.com to learn more about our approach to sustainability.

Interfor is one of the largest forest products companies in the world and we’re growing in exciting directions. Come be a part of our success! #StartHereGoFar

What We Offer
Interfor builds value for our employees by providing a career where they can contribute, grow, and prosper. We offer a competitive salary, based both on what you bring to the role and benchmarked to market conditions. You’ll also get a competitive benefits package including:

  • Extended Health & Dental, which includes Vision Care
    • Short Term Disability Insurance
    • Long Term Disability Insurance
    • Group Life and AD&D Insurance
    • Optional (Employee Paid) Group Life Insurance
  • RRSP Matching Plan
  • Participation in our Employee Share Purchase Plan (ESPP)
  • Participation in our Short-Term Incentive Plan (STIP)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Employee Assistance Program

We want you to grow your career with Interfor. With our industry leading training programs and track record of promoting from within, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ‘Start Here. Go Far.’ Check out our Employee Development Programs to learn more at www.interfor.com/careers.

We appreciate the interest of all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. All applicants offered a position must successfully complete a pre-employment drug test and background check. Interfor is an Equal Opportunity Employer building a capable, committed, diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual identity, gender, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.