Lead Instrumentation Technician

Tokai Carbon helps build America every day and we're proud of it!

As one of the world's largest and most recognized graphite electrode manufacturers, we power the industries that keep our country moving. To continue that mission, we're looking for dependable team members to join our Engineering Team where safety, teamwork, and precision drive everything we do.

This position is based at our Ozark, AR facility. In addition to base pay, this role is eligible for an annual bonus tied to personal objectives overall business performance. The standard schedule is M-F 7AM-3:30PM**;** however, scheduling may vary based on operational needs. This role may be expected to work overtime, rotating schedules, nights, weekends, and holidays and other alternate schedules as needed.

At Tokai Carbon, our people are our greatest asset and we believe in investing in them from DAY ONE!

Compensation & Benefits (Available on Day One):

• Full health benefits including medical, vision, and dental
• Vacation Time
• Paid Holidays
• Opportunities for growth and promotion through cross‑training after 6 months in the role.
• Eligible for quarterly bonus incentives plus a fifth annual bonus tied to overall business performance.
• Education Assistance Programs, Monthly Wellness Reimbursements, and more!

Position Summary:

The Lead Instrumentation Technician will assist in the design, programming, and support of PLC-based control systems for manufacturing equipment. This role is ideal for someone with foundational knowledge of automation and controls who is eager to grow their skills in a hands-on environment. The Lead Instrumentation Technician will work with the Controls Engineer and lead the Instrumentation Technicians to support system upgrades, troubleshoot equipment, and help align control systems.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Assist with troubleshooting and maintaining PLC-controlled systems.
• Support updates to existing control systems, including PLC logic, HMIs, and basic SCADA interfaces.
• Collaborate with senior engineers, engineers and maintenance teams on control system modifications.
• Provides training to others Instrumentation Technicians and Maintenance Technicians
• Help document control system changes, wiring diagrams, and network layouts.
• Participate in installation and commissioning of new or upgraded equipment.
• Learn and support SCADA systems and data collection tools.
• Travel to the Hickman site as needed (approx. 1 week/month).
• Participate in training sessions to support new systems and technologies (e.g., Starlink system on Phoenix machine).
• Maintain accurate records of control system configurations and updates.

COMPETENCIES

• Must be able to work independently and accept responsibility for sophisticated and expensive equipment and work responsibly with potentially hazardous processes and systems.
• Thorough understanding of plant electrical and electronic equipment including motor drives, instrumentation and troubleshooting, or ability to quickly learn is required.
• Good customer service skills.
• In-depth knowledge of PLC and VFDs programming, SCADA programming, databases, and networking.
• Develop, install, program and maintain OT Network and Components
• Knowledge about CNC systems like for example Fanuc

EDUCATION

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology or related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 2-5 Years of experience in a related field