Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Josh Coenen

Sutherland,IA

Summary

Versatile and highly skilled Automation and Controls Specialist with an extensive background in industrial maintenance, precision instrumentation, and automated system integration within high-volume food manufacturing environments. Proven track record of maintaining production line reliability through advanced Allen-Bradley PLC programming, multi-device networking, and multi-disciplinary troubleshooting. Adept at managing a wide variety of daily plant demands, ranging from heavy mechanical repairs and electrical circuit analysis to precision sensor calibration, vendor procurement, and strict OSHA safety compliance.

Overview

1
1
Certification
11
11
years of professional experience

Work History

Automation Technician/ Controls Engineer

Tyson Fresh Meats
Storm Lake, Iowa
10.2025 - Current

• Automation & Controls Programming: Program, troubleshoot, and repair Allen-Bradley PLC and HMI systems across multi-line meat processing production environments to resolve software, electrical, and mechanical faults.
• Specialized Systems & Instrumentation: Execute full-lifecycle installation, calibration, maintenance, and repair of critical plant technologies, including industrial X-ray machinery, metal detectors, high-precision scale systems, and automated tracking sensors.
• Electrical & Network Infrastructure: Configure network connections between multiple automated devices, install Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) to optimize machinery performance, analyze circuit boards, and interpret complex electrical schematics.
• Mechanical & Plant Reliability: Diagnose and maintain heavy production equipment, including high-speed conveyors, motors, and process piping, while utilizing testing meters to measure voltage, resistance, and current.
• Process Improvement & Optimization: Analyze active manufacturing lines to design, engineer, and implement advanced automation upgrades that significantly boost workflow efficiency and eliminate recurring operational delays.
• Safety & Regulatory Compliance: Design advanced safety infrastructure for automated machinery and enforce strict operational protocols to maintain absolute alignment with OSHA regulations and industry legal standards.
• Procurement & Vendor Management: Partner directly with external suppliers to acquire technical material quotes, manage active component inventory levels, and coordinate project logistics to keep maintenance workflows fully supplied.

Automation Integration Technician

American Natural Processors
05.2025 - 08.2025
  • Delivered integration solutions with engineering teams for complex technical challenges.
  • Addressed complex integration issues across multiple platforms using advanced debugging techniques.
  • Enhanced operational efficiency by integrating new processing systems.
  • Drove process improvements by analyzing system performance data.
  • Improved system performance by promptly resolving technical issues.
  • Reduced downtime and supported operational efficiency through timely mechanical repairs.
  • Maintained accurate calibration of sensors and controls for food processing systems.
  • Maintained equipment reliability and safety compliance through routine inspections of machinery and equipment.
  • Restored plant operations by diagnosing mechanical and electrical issues.

Robotics and Automation Supervisor

Pivot Point Spencer, Inc
05.2024 - 03.2025
  • Supported automation processes to keep production workflows efficient and reliable.
  • Trained staff on new automation technology and best practices to enhance operational capabilities.
  • Completed routine audits of automated systems to find improvement opportunities.
  • Worked with engineering teams to add advanced robotics into manufacturing operations.
  • Built custom software solutions for unique production issues and workflow gains.
  • Programmed robotic systems to improve production efficiency.
  • Troubleshot PLC, sensor, and machine faults during manufacturing shifts.
  • Reviewed automation alarms, logs, and machine data to find operating issues.
  • Updated standard work for automation processes and equipment changeovers to ensure consistency and efficiency.
  • Monitored safety compliance across automated systems and shop floor areas.
  • Prepared purchase orders for parts needed to repair or upgrade automated equipment.
  • Assessed performance of automation equipment to identify issues.
  • Supported compliance with federal, state, and local regulations for automated systems.
  • Prepared cost estimates for projects involving installation or modification of automated machinery to support budgeting and planning efforts.

Assembly Specialist

Polaris Industries/ Indian Motorcycle
01.2023 - 05.2024
  • Assembled motorcycle components with precision to ensure quality standards.
  • Operated assembly tools and machinery effectively in fast-paced environment.
  • Inspected finished products for defects and adhered to safety protocols.
  • Assisted in troubleshooting mechanical issues during assembly line operations.
  • Contributed to continuous improvement initiatives by providing feedback on processes.
  • Collaborated with engineering team to identify design improvements, leading to reduced production costs.
  • Provided valuable feedback on prototype builds, aiding in the development of more effective final products.
  • Dyno Roll Testing Lead for all 2024-2025 Indian Heavyweight Motorcycles including experimental pilot models

Lumber Yard Manager and On Site Technician

Sweeney's Farm and Home Center
01.2020 - 12.2022
  • Oversaw daily operations of lumber yard, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to safety standards.
  • Managed inventory levels, optimizing stock availability and reducing excess materials.
  • Collaborated with suppliers to negotiate pricing, improving cost management strategies.
  • Exceeded performance targets set forth by senior-level management by employing innovative strategies to drive business growth.
  • Coordinated transportation logistics for both incoming and outgoing shipments, ensuring timely deliveries without delays or additional costs.
  • Diagnosed hardware and software issues to enhance system performance and reliability.
  • Installed, configured, and maintained computer systems for optimal functionality.

Landscaping Foreman/ Crew Lead

Vugteveen Lawn Service
06.2015 - 07.2019
  • Supervised daily landscaping operations, ensuring quality and adherence to project specifications.
  • Trained and mentored junior staff on best practices in landscape maintenance and equipment usage.
  • Conducted site assessments, identifying potential challenges and recommending solutions for improvement.
  • Managed inventory of tools and materials, streamlining procurement processes for efficiency.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by addressing concerns promptly and maintaining open communication channels.
  • Managed seasonal responsibilities including snow removal during winter months ensuring safe access to properties for clients.
  • Maintained detailed records of work performed client requests materials used equipment maintenance and safety-related incidents for efficient reporting.
  • Trained new team members on company policies, procedures, and best practices in landscaping techniques to ensure consistent service quality.

Education

Fanuc Robot Operations And Programming - Robotics

Acieta
Council Bluffs, IA
01-2024

Entry Level Driver Training - CDL A

Iowa Lakes Community College
Emmetsburg, IA
01-2019

IT Technician - Computer Technology

Techworks By Jobworks
Philadelphia, PA
12-2022

HiSET Diploma -

Iowa Lakes Community College
Emmetsburg, Iowa
01-2019

Skills

  • PLC programming
  • Process automation
  • Robotics integration
  • Electrical troubleshooting
  • Mechanical troubleshooting
  • Control systems management
  • HMI troubleshooting
  • VFD installation
  • Instrument calibration
  • Circuit analysis
  • Sensor technology
  • Tools usage
  • Mechanical repair skills
  • Pneumatic operations
  • Technical support
  • Technical documentation
  • AutoCAD proficiency
  • CAD software proficiency
  • Efficient equipment maintenance
  • Vendor coordination
  • Safety compliance
  • Continuous improvement
  • Technical data interpretation
  • Maintenance techniques
  • Task management
  • Critical thinking
  • Automation software development
  • Automation software development

Certification

  • Certified Scale Technician- Tyson Foods
  • CompTIA ITF+ Certified
  • Class A CDL
  • Certified FANUC Robot Operations and Programming

Timeline

Automation Technician/ Controls Engineer

Tyson Fresh Meats
10.2025 - Current

Automation Integration Technician

American Natural Processors
05.2025 - 08.2025

Robotics and Automation Supervisor

Pivot Point Spencer, Inc
05.2024 - 03.2025

Assembly Specialist

Polaris Industries/ Indian Motorcycle
01.2023 - 05.2024

Lumber Yard Manager and On Site Technician

Sweeney's Farm and Home Center
01.2020 - 12.2022

Landscaping Foreman/ Crew Lead

Vugteveen Lawn Service
06.2015 - 07.2019

Fanuc Robot Operations And Programming - Robotics

Acieta

Entry Level Driver Training - CDL A

Iowa Lakes Community College

IT Technician - Computer Technology

Techworks By Jobworks

HiSET Diploma -

Iowa Lakes Community College
Josh Coenen