Field Service Engineer
Job Description
- Install, commission, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair custom automated packaging equipment
- Diagnose mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and controls-related issues in the field
- Perform PLC uploads, resets, replacements, and basic controls troubleshooting
- Read and interpret electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, and pneumatic diagrams
- Fine-tune machinery performance and optimize operational efficiency
- Train customer personnel on equipment operation and preventive maintenance
- Complete detailed service documentation and communicate findings to engineering teams
- Build strong relationships with customers while serving as the primary on-site technical resource
- Travel extensively throughout the U.S. with occasional international travel for training and support
- 5+ years of hands-on experience in automation, packaging machinery, manufacturing equipment, or industrial service environments
- Strong mechanical aptitude with working knowledge of electrical systems and controls
- Basic PLC/HMI troubleshooting experience
- Experience working with automated machinery, packaging systems, conveyors, robotics, or custom equipment
- Ability to work independently in the field and manage multiple assignments
- Comfortable traveling extensively and working directly with customers
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and remote troubleshooting tools
- Valid driver’s license and passport required
- Mechatronics
- Automation technology
- Industrial maintenance
- Packaging machinery
- Military technical experience / veterans strongly encouraged to apply
- $42–$48/hour base pay
- Average earnings well over $100K annually with overtime and travel
- Time-and-a-half after 40 hours
- Double time on Sundays
- Typical schedule includes 10-hour days in the field
- Estimated 25–50% annual overtime opportunity
- $600/month vehicle allowance
- $75/day meal per diem while traveling
- Company credit card
- Company cell phone
- Paid travel expenses
- International training opportunities in Germany and Thailand
- Fully remote when not traveling
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.
Meet Your Recruiter
Team Lead and Principal Recruiter
Ric is a Team Lead and Principal Recruiter at Sterling Engineering with more than a decade of technical recruiting experience, including over eight years with Sterling. In his role, he leads recruiting efforts while also working hands-on with clients and candidates throughout the full hiring process.
From sourcing hard-to-find technical talent to navigating offer negotiations, Ric focuses on creating strong, lasting matches that benefit both the individual and the organization. His approach is built on understanding technical environments, listening closely to hiring needs and career goals, and aligning the right people with the right opportunities.
Ric enjoys recruiting because of the meaningful impact it can have on someone’s career. Whether helping a candidate pursue a growth opportunity, improve work-life balance, or step into a leadership role, he is driven by the opportunity to support people through important career decisions. At the same time, he takes pride in helping companies build high-performing teams that move their business forward.