Batching Systems Automation Technician

This role is in support of Cencora's distribution services in the US operating through our AmerisourceBergen business.

Summary of Role:

The Batching Systems Automation Technician is responsible for installing, configuring, maintaining, and supporting industrial automation systems used in production animal operations (primarily dairy and feedlot). These systems control the batching and delivery of feed ingredients and additives and represent mission-critical infrastructure.

This role requires a cross-disciplinary skill set spanning industrial automation, electrical systems, livestock production, networking, and various software environments. Technicians must be capable of independently troubleshooting hardware, software, and mechanical systems under time-sensitive conditions, both remotely and in active industrial environments. The position is primarily remote but requires frequent travel to rural customer facilities for installation, troubleshooting, repair, and training.

This position operates at the intersection of industrial automation and production agriculture and requires strong independent judgment and problem-solving ability.

Travel & Shift Details: 50% travel during training (first 3 months), 25% ongoing; must be flexible to participate in rotating on‑call schedule required.

Responsibilities:

Automation Systems

• Install, configure, and support PLC-based batching and control systems

• Integrate automation systems with scales, flow meters, pumps, augers, and other mill equipment

• Configure and troubleshoot I/O systems and control logic

• Support system commissioning, testing, and validation

• Diagnose and resolve automation and control system faults

Communications & Networking

• Install, configure, and troubleshoot industrial communication systems including:

  • RS-232 and RS-485 serial networks

  • 900 MHz radio systems (client/server configurations)

  • Ethernet and WiFi infrastructure

• Support integration between PLCs, batching software, and field equipment

• Build and repair communication cabling and connections

Electrical Systems & Field Installation

• Assist with installation and maintenance of control wiring, communication wiring, and power systems applying working knowledge of:

  • 120V / 240V / 480V AC systems (single and three-phase power)

  • 12V / 24V DC control systems

  • Relays, switches, contactors, circuit protection, UPS devices, etc.

  • Ethernet configurations in high-interference environments

• Interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams

• Diagnose and troubleshoot electrical issues both on-site and remotely

• Coordinate with millwrights, electricians, plumbers, and other tradespeople

• Work safely in industrial environments with heavy equipment and electrical hazards

Software Systems & Data Infrastructure

• Install, operate, and support system control software on Linux-based systems

• Utilize command-line tools to monitor and troubleshoot system behavior

• Support Java-based applications and related services

• Work with SQL databases using query tools and management software

• Analyze and interpret time-series system logs to diagnose system behavior

• Support system updates, configuration changes, and software deployments

Technical Support & Customer Training

• Deliver training to operators and other key personnel on system use and workflows

• Assist customers in diagnosing software, electrical, and automation issues

• Provide real-time technical support during active operations

• Communicate effectively with users of varying technical backgrounds

• Utilize bilingual skills or translation tools when necessary.

Quality Assurance & System Auditing

• Assist in verifying batching accuracy and system performance

• Monitor system operations including timing, sequencing, and communication

• Prepare accurate and actionable reports of system observations

Work Environment & Expectations

• Combination of remote, office, and field-based work environments

• Frequent travel to rural customer locations (company vehicle provided)

• Industrial agricultural environments (primarily feed mills and dairies) in all weather conditions

• Travel requirements:

  • ~50% during initial training

  • ~25% ongoing

• Participation in a rotating 24/7 on-call support schedule

Education:

• Associate’s degree in Agricultural Engineering, Precision Agriculture, Electrical Engineering, Animal Science, Industrial Technology, or related technical field

OR

• Completion of technical trade school or apprenticeship training in electrical systems, automation, or industrial technology

• 1 – 3 years of experience in one or more of the following:

  • Agricultural operations

  • Industrial automation and networking

  • PLC systems

  • Electrical systems

• Proficiency in:

  • Troubleshooting hardware/software systems

  • Professional communication (verbal and written)

  • Networking fundamentals

Nice to Have:

• Experience with:

  • Livestock operations and high-volume feed milling - familiarity

  • PLC systems and automation - proficient

  • MS Office - proficient

  • Industrial communications (serial, radio, etc.) - proficient

  • Linux operating systems - familiarity

  • SQL databases - familiarity

• Bilingual Spanish

Skills and Knowledge:

• Technical troubleshooting and problem-solving

• Ability to work independently in field environments

• Strong communication and customer support skills

• Attention to detail in system analysis

Additional Requirements:

• Valid driver’s license

• Ability to pass background and drug screening

• Ability to travel and work safely in outdoor/industrial environments

• Ability to work in various climates/environments

• Ability to lift equipment and work around machinery

Education:

Position requires an Associate’s degree or 2 years of college experience preferably in Animal Science, Feedlot Management, Nutrition, or other related major. Two to three years of experience working in a feed yard, primarily in the feed management division.

Skills and Knowledge:

Working knowledge of PCs, operating systems, data bases, software engines, and other related software is required. Need to have general knowledge of cattle and agricultural processes. Position requires valid driver’s license and frequent travel in the United States. Overnight travel required 50% of the time.

What Cencora offers

We provide compensation, benefits, and resources that enable a highly inclusive culture and support our team members’ ability to live with purpose every day. In addition to traditional offerings like medical, dental, and vision care, we also provide a comprehensive suite of benefits that focus on the physical, emotional, financial, and social aspects of wellness. This encompasses support for working families, which may include backup dependent care, adoption assistance, infertility coverage, family building support, behavioral health solutions, paid parental leave, and paid caregiver leave. To encourage your personal growth, we also offer a variety of training programs, professional development resources, and opportunities to participate in mentorship programs, employee resource groups, volunteer activities, and much more. For details, visit https://www.virtualfairhub.com/cencora

Full time

Equal Employment Opportunity

Cencora is committed to providing equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or membership in any other class protected by federal, state or local law.

The company’s continued success depends on the full and effective utilization of qualified individuals. Therefore, harassment is prohibited and all matters related to recruiting, training, compensation, benefits, promotions and transfers comply with equal opportunity principles and are non-discriminatory.

Cencora is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities during the employment process which are consistent with legal requirements. If you wish to request an accommodation while seeking employment, please call 888.692.2272 or email hrsc@cencora.com. We will make accommodation determinations on a request-by-request basis. Messages and emails regarding anything other than accommodations requests will not be returned

Affiliated Companies

Affiliated Companies: MWI Veterinary Supply Company