Sr. Controls Engineer (Warehouse Support)
Role details
Job location
Tech stack
Job description
The Warehouse PLC / Controls Engineer is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and improving automated control systems within a warehouse or distribution environment. This role focuses on maximizing system uptime through rapid issue resolution, preventive maintenance, and continuous improvement of PLC-controlled equipment such as conveyors, sortation systems, and automated material handling systems.
- Diagnose and resolve Programmable Logic Control (PLC), Human machine interface (HMI), and control system issues impacting warehouse operations.
- Provide real-time support to operations teams to minimize downtime.
- Analyze system faults, alarms, and logs to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
- Support troubleshooting of automation systems including conveyors, sorters, pick by light and robotics systems.
System Documentation
- Develop and maintain accurate as-built documentation for PLC programs, network architecture, and control systems.
- Update electrical schematics, I/O lists, and system configurations as modifications occur.
- Ensure documentation is organized, version-controlled, and easily accessible.
Troubleshooting Guides & Knowledge Sharing
- Create and continuously improve standardized troubleshooting guides and procedures.
- Develop training materials and provide guidance to operators and maintenance technicians.
- Capture lessons learned from recurring issues to build robust knowledge bases.
Continuous Improvement & Upgrades
- Identify opportunities for system improvements to enhance reliability, efficiency, and performance.
- Propose and implement equipment upgrades, control logic enhancements, and process optimizations.
- Collaborate with vendors and engineering teams on system modifications and new installations.
Preventive & Predictive Maintenance
- Develop and execute preventive maintenance strategies for PLCs, control panels, and automation systems.
- Monitor system health and implement predictive maintenance techniques to prevent failures.
- Ensure compliance with maintenance schedules to maximize uptime and equipment lifespan.
Testing & Commissioning
- Support commissioning of new equipment, system upgrades, and retrofit projects.
- Conduct Factory and site acceptance testing (FAT/SAT) testing and validate system performance post-implementation.
- Verify proper operation of safety circuits and compliance with standards.
Requirements
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Bachelor's degree in engineering (Electrical or Controls Engineering preferred) or equivalent work experience.
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4-7+ years of experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting (Prefer Allen-Bradley).
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FDA regulated manufacturing, consumer packaged goods or similar experience.
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Experience with validation or commissioning documentation.
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PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, Profibus, etc.)
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Electrical systems and control panels
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Proven ability to troubleshoot complex automation issues under time pressure., * Prefer Experience in warehouse automation, distribution centers, or material handling systems.
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Experience with WMS and other IT/OT systems integration.
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Working knowledge of the principles of quality software engineering as described by software lifecycle development processes that are consistent with ISO, IEEE, or other FDA recognized standards.
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Programming experience using current programming languages (C#, html, SQL) and/or experience in software development.
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Be familiar with tools within Continuous Improvement (e.g., 6 Sigma, Lean, Kaizen, etc.) and participate in problem resolution.
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Ability to manage multiple tasks and know how to prioritize the workday.
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'Out-of-the-box' thinking and problem solving., * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
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Hands-on troubleshooting expertise
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Clear technical documentation ability
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Continuous improvement mindset
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Effective communication with cross-functional teams