Question
5-10

Industrial Automation Trainer/Instructor - PLC5 & ABB Drive

5/12/2026

Develop and deliver instructor-led training programs focusing on PLC5 programming and ABB VFD maintenance for industrial professionals. Create comprehensive training materials and assess trainee progress through practical exams and evaluations.

Salary

80000 - 90000 USD

Working Hours

40 hours/week

Company Size

51-200 employees

Language

English

Visa Sponsorship

No

About The Company
Cates Control Systems has been providing automation and control products to manufacturing companies for over 40 years. In 1978 Gordon Cates founded the company as a DC and Eddy current service company in Houston, Texas. Since that time Cates has evolved into an automation solutions company offering engineering services, OEM control panel manufacturing, custom control panel fabrication, and PLC/VFD training classes. Cates has the expertise to specify the best products for your project, and we maintain direct relationships with top vendors for product sourcing. Our company has always focused on providing customers with exceptional service.
About the Role

Description

  

We are seeking an experienced Classroom Trainer with expertise in Allen-Bradley PLC5 systems and ABB Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) to join our team. This role involves delivering high-quality, instructor-led training programs to industrial professionals, technicians, and engineers, ensuring they gain the necessary skills to install, program, troubleshoot, and maintain these automation systems.


Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and deliver structured training sessions on PLC5 programming, troubleshooting, and system integration.
  • Conduct hands-on training for ABB VFDs, including commissioning, parameterization, and maintenance practices.
  • Create training materials, including manuals, presentations, and practical exercises tailored to participants' skill levels.
  • Provide real-world application examples and troubleshooting scenarios to enhance learning.
  • Assess trainees' progress through evaluations, quizzes, and hands-on practical exams.
  • Stay updated on the latest advancements in industrial automation and incorporate them into training programs.
  • Offer post-training support and guidance to trainees as needed.
  • Work collaboratively with internal teams to refine training programs and address industry trends.

Qualifications & Skills

  • 5+ years of hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley PLC5 systems and ABB VFDs.
  • In-depth knowledge of RSLogix5 software, PLC ladder logic, and industrial automation networks.
  • Strong understanding of ABB drive configurations, fault diagnostics, and energy efficiency optimization.
  • Previous experience in technical training, workforce development, or industrial automation instruction is preferred.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills with the ability to simplify complex topics.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to tailor training to different skill levels.
  • Experience with other PLC systems (ControlLogix, SLC500, etc.) and industrial control systems is a plus.

Education & Certifications

  • Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Automation, or a related field (preferred).
  • Certifications in Allen-Bradley PLCs and ABB VFDs (desirable).
  • Teaching or instructional certification is a plus.

Why Join Us?

  • Opportunity to share expertise and shape the next generation of industrial automation professionals.
  • Competitive compensation and benefits package.
  • A collaborative and innovative work environment.

If you are passionate about industrial automation training and have hands-on experience with PLC5 and ABB Drives, we invite you to apply and become a key part of our technical education team


More About Us

Cates Control Systems was founded over 40 years ago and is an award-winning systems integration company that partners with manufacturing firms to develop and implement automation solutions to increase production, improve quality and reduce costs. Our customers are extremely diverse and spread all over North America (and a few internationally). Our customers make roofing shingles, fry potato chips, roast coffee, process poultry and beef, distill water, bottle apple juice, and ship all over the world.

Cates is committed to delivering quality solutions that we stand behind through service and support. Our vision is to positively impact the lives of others. We are a fun, friendly company with a strong family atmosphere and 12 core principles that guide us at every step in our success. Our culture is firmly rooted in the values of honesty, integrity, commitment, and reliability. To learn more about Cates, please visit us at www.cates.com.


Job Type: Full-time

Pay range: $80,000 - $90,000


Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • Monday to Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

    Location: Wylie, TX


Key Skills
Allen-Bradley PLC5ABB Variable Frequency DrivesRSLogix5PLC Ladder LogicIndustrial Automation NetworksTechnical TrainingCurriculum DevelopmentFault DiagnosticsSystem IntegrationCommissioningParameterizationProblem SolvingPresentation SkillsControlLogixSLC500Industrial Control Systems
Categories
EducationEngineeringManufacturingTechnologyTrades
Benefits
401(k)Dental insuranceFlexible scheduleFlexible spending accountHealth insuranceHealth savings accountLife insurancePaid time offProfessional development assistanceReferral programVision insurance
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