Automation Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Kentucky
Kentucky's automation sector spans advanced manufacturing plants in Louisville and Lexington, Toyota's Georgetown assembly complex, and a growing network of logistics hubs. Employers including Toyota, Tempur Sealy, and Lexmark have established records of sponsoring international talent for automation roles, making Kentucky a practical target for engineers and technicians seeking visa sponsorship.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.
SUMMARY
Bring automation to life on the manufacturing floor. The Automation Controls Technician plays a critical role in designing, programming, maintaining, and optimizing automated and robotic systems that keep operations running efficiently and reliably. This role partners closely with cross functional teams to troubleshoot and improve control processes, support new technology implementations, and enhance existing equipment capabilities. The Automation Controls Technician is a hands-on technical contributor who helps drive innovation, uptime, and continuous improvement across the plant.
SCHEDULE: 1st Shift: Rotating 2-2-3, 6:00am-6:30pm
PRINCIPAL ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Design, program, and implement automated control systems.
- Troubleshoot and repair electrical and mechanical issues in automated/robotic equipment.
- Troubleshoot and perform repairs on AC/DC/Servo Motor Control System and Instrumentation Control Systems.
- Conduct regular maintenance and inspections of control systems and equipment.
- Document maintenance activities, repairs, and system changes.
- Respond to emergency breakdowns and troubleshooting control system issues promptly.
- Collaborate cross-functionally to design and integrate automation/robotic solutions.
- Test and calibrate instrumentation and control devices.
- Contribute to the development of preventive maintenance schedules for automation equipment.
- Monitor and optimize control system performance.
- Install and configure/program industrial robots and robotic systems. Programming (PLCs and HMIs).
- Ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards. Understand safety compliance and standards for robotic equipment.
- Provide training and support to operators on control system usage.
- Mentor and train other Maintenance Technicians.
Participate in continuous improvement.
MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- High School Diploma or GED.
- 8+ Years experience in industrial automation, controls systems, PLC programming, and troubleshooting, preferably in a food manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding and practical application of PLCs, HMI systems, robotics, and industrial control systems.
- Industry certifications such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP), Certified Control Systems Technician or related certifications are advantageous.
- In depth knowledge of electrical systems, control devices, instrumentation, and process control.
- Maintain Perdue Farms QEW Certification.
- Commitment to Continuous Learning to achieve increasing levels of expertise.
- Fanuc Certified Service Engineer (CSE) or Master Certified preferred.
- Pallet Tool/Pick Tool and Programming (Part of Fanuc Robotics).
- Line Tracking Setup (Non-Vision) (Part of Fanuc Robotics).
- KAREL Programming (Part of Fanuc Robotics).
PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- 2-year Technical Degree in Mechatronics/Robotics or equivalent combination of experience and education.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
- Sitting, standing, walking, climbing, kneeling, reaching overhead and/or at shoulder level, lifting (50 lbs.) and/or repetitive tasks throughout the day.
- Position requires occasional moving to other offices or buildings.
- Day travel to nearby locations is sometimes required.
- May need to access files, supplies, and equipment.
When in a plant environment:
- Exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating surfaces.
- May be exposed to temperatures of 28 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit with both ambient and 100% humidity.
- May handle products from 25 degrees to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
- May be exposed to noise ranges of 50 db to 110 db.
- May be exposed to all chemicals used in poultry, food, and processing plant.
Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
INTRODUCTION
Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.
SUMMARY
Bring automation to life on the manufacturing floor. The Automation Controls Technician plays a critical role in designing, programming, maintaining, and optimizing automated and robotic systems that keep operations running efficiently and reliably. This role partners closely with cross functional teams to troubleshoot and improve control processes, support new technology implementations, and enhance existing equipment capabilities. The Automation Controls Technician is a hands-on technical contributor who helps drive innovation, uptime, and continuous improvement across the plant.
SCHEDULE: 1st Shift: Rotating 2-2-3, 6:00am-6:30pm
PRINCIPAL ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Design, program, and implement automated control systems.
- Troubleshoot and repair electrical and mechanical issues in automated/robotic equipment.
- Troubleshoot and perform repairs on AC/DC/Servo Motor Control System and Instrumentation Control Systems.
- Conduct regular maintenance and inspections of control systems and equipment.
- Document maintenance activities, repairs, and system changes.
- Respond to emergency breakdowns and troubleshooting control system issues promptly.
- Collaborate cross-functionally to design and integrate automation/robotic solutions.
- Test and calibrate instrumentation and control devices.
- Contribute to the development of preventive maintenance schedules for automation equipment.
- Monitor and optimize control system performance.
- Install and configure/program industrial robots and robotic systems. Programming (PLCs and HMIs).
- Ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards. Understand safety compliance and standards for robotic equipment.
- Provide training and support to operators on control system usage.
- Mentor and train other Maintenance Technicians.
Participate in continuous improvement.
MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- High School Diploma or GED.
- 8+ Years experience in industrial automation, controls systems, PLC programming, and troubleshooting, preferably in a food manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding and practical application of PLCs, HMI systems, robotics, and industrial control systems.
- Industry certifications such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP), Certified Control Systems Technician or related certifications are advantageous.
- In depth knowledge of electrical systems, control devices, instrumentation, and process control.
- Maintain Perdue Farms QEW Certification.
- Commitment to Continuous Learning to achieve increasing levels of expertise.
- Fanuc Certified Service Engineer (CSE) or Master Certified preferred.
- Pallet Tool/Pick Tool and Programming (Part of Fanuc Robotics).
- Line Tracking Setup (Non-Vision) (Part of Fanuc Robotics).
- KAREL Programming (Part of Fanuc Robotics).
PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- 2-year Technical Degree in Mechatronics/Robotics or equivalent combination of experience and education.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
- Sitting, standing, walking, climbing, kneeling, reaching overhead and/or at shoulder level, lifting (50 lbs.) and/or repetitive tasks throughout the day.
- Position requires occasional moving to other offices or buildings.
- Day travel to nearby locations is sometimes required.
- May need to access files, supplies, and equipment.
When in a plant environment:
- Exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating surfaces.
- May be exposed to temperatures of 28 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit with both ambient and 100% humidity.
- May handle products from 25 degrees to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
- May be exposed to noise ranges of 50 db to 110 db.
- May be exposed to all chemicals used in poultry, food, and processing plant.
Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Automation Job Roles in Kentucky
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Search Automation Jobs in KentuckyAutomation Jobs in Kentucky: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies sponsor visas for automation roles in Kentucky?
Toyota's Georgetown manufacturing facility is one of Kentucky's most active sponsors for engineering and automation talent. Other employers with sponsorship track records include Lexmark International in Lexington, Tempur Sealy, and various advanced manufacturing contractors supporting Ford and GE Appliances operations. Logistics and warehousing companies operating fulfillment centers in the Louisville area have also filed sponsorship petitions for automation engineers and controls specialists.
Which visa types are most common for automation roles in Kentucky?
The H-1B visa is the most common visa for automation engineers, controls engineers, and robotics specialists in Kentucky, as these roles typically require at least a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field and qualify as specialty occupations. TN visas are an option for Canadian and Mexican nationals in qualifying engineering roles. Candidates with exceptional records in automation research may explore the O-1A category.
Which cities in Kentucky have the most automation sponsorship jobs?
Louisville and Lexington account for the majority of automation sponsorship activity in Kentucky. Louisville's concentration of logistics, manufacturing, and food processing facilities drives demand for automation engineers and PLC programmers. Lexington benefits from proximity to Toyota's Georgetown plant and a cluster of automotive suppliers. Georgetown itself, though smaller, is a notable destination given Toyota's large-scale advanced manufacturing presence there.
How to find automation visa sponsorship jobs in Kentucky?
Migrate Mate filters job listings specifically by visa sponsorship availability, making it straightforward to search for automation roles in Kentucky without sorting through postings that don't offer sponsorship. You can filter by state and role type to surface relevant openings from manufacturers, logistics operators, and engineering firms actively hiring in Kentucky. Migrate Mate's focus on sponsorship-confirmed roles saves significant time compared to general job searches.
Are there state-specific considerations for automation professionals pursuing sponsorship in Kentucky?
Kentucky's manufacturing base, anchored by automotive, aerospace, and appliance production, creates consistent demand for controls engineers, robotics technicians, and industrial automation specialists. The University of Kentucky and University of Louisville produce engineering graduates and maintain industry partnerships that sometimes create pipelines into sponsoring employers. Prevailing wage requirements for H-1B petitions are determined by the Department of Labor based on the specific role and county, so wages vary across Louisville, Lexington, and rural manufacturing corridors.
What is the prevailing wage for sponsored automation jobs in Kentucky?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.