At Harvest Food Group (HFG), our mission is to create products that make a positive impact on the world. HFG is a private equityâbacked company headquartered in Naperville, Illinois, with a brand\-new, state\-of\-the\-art production facility in East Chicago, Indiana.
The Maintenance Programmer supports facility operations by programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human\-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and related control systems. This role requires strong technical expertise across both software and hardware aspects of industrial automation while ensuring compliance with OSHA, GMP, and HACCP food safety standards. The Maintenance Programmer plays a critical role in minimizing downtime, improving system reliability, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.
Design, write, test, and implement PLC programs (e.g., Allen\-Bradley ControlLogix, CompactLogix)
Develop and maintain HMI/SCADA applications (e.g., Wonderware) to support production requirements
Diagnose and repair electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and control system issues to minimize production interruptions
Perform preventive maintenance (PMs) and equipment inspections to identify and address potential failures
Collaborate with Engineering and Production teams to install, commission, and start up new equipment and automation systems
Support system upgrades and expansions, including field wiring and validation
Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, software changes, backups, and electrical schematics
Ensure all work complies with OSHA regulations, GMPs, and HACCP requirements
Monitor system performance and analyze KPIs to identify opportunities for automation enhancements
Recommend and implement process improvements, upgrades, and optimization initiatives
Provide technical training and ongoing support to operations and maintenance personnel
Assist with knowledge transfer related to automated systems and new equipment
SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS
3â5 years of PLC Programming experience required
High school diploma or equivalent required
Technical diploma or certification in industrial maintenance, automation, or electrical systems preferred
Ability to read and write in English
Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred
Proficiency in PLC programming, setup, and troubleshooting
Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills
Ability to read and interpret electrical diagrams, schematics, and blueprints
Moderate knowledge of safety regulations and safe work practices
Experienced knowledge of Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) systems
Understanding of food processing and manufacturing equipment, including:
HTST systems
CIP systems
Conveyors and pumps
Packaging machinery
Prior experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment required
Food or beverage manufacturing experience strongly preferred
Strong analytical and problem\-solving skills with the ability to identify root causes and implement corrective and preventive actions
Effective communication skills to collaborate with Production, Quality Assurance, Engineering, and Sanitation teams
Demonstrated teamwork and reliability in a fast\-paced production environment
WHY JOIN US?
Direct Hire with full benefits, PTO and 401K Match
Play a key role in the launch of a next\-generation facilityâ¯
Work with a collaborative and innovation\-driven teamâ¯
Help deliver high\-quality, safe, and delicious food products to consumersâ¯
Contribute to the future of food manufacturing through automation and sustainability
