Automation Technician – Solina Canada (Ontario)Full-Time Permanent Position
Ontario – Lynch Foods, a division of Solina Canada
About Solina Canada
Solina Canada is a national leader in the development and manufacturing of customized culinary solutions, including seasonings, marinades, sauces, broths, and functional ingredient blends for the food industry.
Operating in Quebec (Laval and Boisbriand) and Ontario (Toronto), Solina Canada combines the expertise of two well-established companies: Berthelet in Quebec and Lynch Foods in Ontario. Together under the Solina banner, we share a passion for quality, innovation, and customer success.
Joining Solina Canada means becoming part of a growing organization where collaboration, continuous improvement, and innovation drive everything we do. We value diverse perspectives, encourage initiative, and provide opportunities for employees to make a meaningful impact.
Your Role
Reporting directly to the Maintenance Director, the Automation Technician is responsible for installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and improving automated systems and equipment within our manufacturing facility.
This newly created position will play a key role in supporting Solina Canada's continued growth and investment in automation, operational excellence, and manufacturing performance.
You will help ensure the reliability, efficiency, and safety of production operations by supporting PLCs, robotics, instrumentation, control systems, and automation projects throughout the facility.
Key ResponsibilitiesMaintenance & Troubleshooting
- Diagnose and repair automation and control system issues, including PLCs, HMIs, sensors, drives, instrumentation, and Fanuc robotics;
- Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on automated equipment and production systems;
- Respond quickly to production issues to minimize downtime and maximize equipment reliability;
- Support troubleshooting efforts across processing and packaging equipment.
Programming & System Support
- Modify, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC programs (Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider);
- Support and maintain HMI and SCADA systems, including Ignition;
- Maintain control system documentation, backups, and revision records;
- Provide technical support for automated manufacturing processes and packaging systems.
Continuous Improvement
- Identify opportunities to improve equipment performance, efficiency, and reliability;
- Support automation upgrades, capital projects, and process optimization initiatives;
- Participate in root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions;
- Contribute to continuous improvement programs focused on productivity and operational excellence.
Installation & Commissioning
- Assist with the installation, commissioning, validation, and startup of new equipment and automation systems;
- Collaborate with engineering teams, contractors, equipment suppliers, and external vendors during projects;
- Support factory acceptance testing (FAT) and site acceptance testing (SAT) when required.
Safety & Compliance
- Ensure all work complies with applicable safety regulations, electrical standards, and food manufacturing requirements;
- Work in accordance with ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) requirements and E-Safe standards;
- Support lockout/tagout procedures and safe work practices;
- Participate in internal and external audits, inspections, and compliance activities;
- Promote a strong safety culture throughout the facility.
Collaboration
- Work closely with Production, Maintenance, Quality, Engineering, and Continuous Improvement teams;
- Provide technical guidance and training to operators, maintenance technicians, apprentices, and trainees;
- Communicate effectively regarding priorities, technical issues, and solutions;
- Demonstrate a commitment to teamwork, collaboration, and knowledge sharing across departments.
QualificationsEducation
- Diploma or Degree in Automation Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Industrial Electronics, or a related field.
Experience
- 3 to 5 years of experience in industrial automation within a manufacturing environment;
- Experience supporting highly automated production equipment;
- Experience in food manufacturing, packaging, or other regulated manufacturing environments is considered a strong asset.
Technical Skills
- Strong PLC programming and troubleshooting experience (Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider);
- Experience with HMI and SCADA platforms, particularly Ignition;
- Solid knowledge of electrical systems, instrumentation, sensors, VFDs, and industrial controls;
- Experience with Fanuc robotics is considered a strong asset;
- Knowledge of industrial communication networks such as Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Modbus, and related protocols;
- Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, schematics, and technical documentation.
Soft Skills
- Fluent English communication skills are required;
- Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities;
- Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced manufacturing environment;
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills;
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety;
- Self-motivated, organized, and results-oriented.
What We Offer
- Competitive annual salary ranging from $80,000 to $95,000, based on qualifications and experience;
- Comprehensive health, dental, life, and disability insurance;
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP);
- Group RRSP program with employer matching contributions of up to 5%;
- Professional development and career growth opportunities;
- Stable employment within a growing organization;
- Collaborative and supportive team environment;
- Opportunity to contribute directly to automation, modernization, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Additional Information
- This is a newly created position that supports Solina Canada's continued growth and investment in automation and manufacturing excellence.
Diversity & Inclusion
At Solina Canada, we are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees are treated with dignity and respect.
We believe that diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives strengthen our organization and contribute to innovation, collaboration, and long-term success.
We are proud to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees.
Join Solina Canada and help shape the future of food innovation.
Pay: $80,000.00-$95,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Vision care
Application question(s):
- How many years of experience do you have working in industrial automation within a manufacturing environment?
- Do you have hands-on experience programming and troubleshooting PLCs?
- Do you have experience working with HMI and/or SCADA systems?
- Do you have experience troubleshooting automated processing and packaging equipment in a manufacturing environment?
Experience:
- Robotics: 3 years (required)
Language:
Work Location: In person
