Controls Engineer

Who We Are

Ocado is a UK based company admitted to trading on the London Stock Exchange (Ticker OCDO). It comprises one of the world's largest dedicated online grocery retailers, operating its own grocery and general merchandise retail businesses under Ocado.com and other specialist shop banners, together with its Ocado Solutions division.

The Ocado Solutions division is responsible for providing Ocado’s innovative advanced robotics technology, known as the Ocado Smart Platform ("OSP"), to our major retailer clients around the world. OSP comprises access to Ocado's physical infrastructure solutions, running highly efficient warehouse operations for the single pick of products, together with the entire end-to-end proprietary software applications and advanced robotics required to operate a world-class online grocery business.

Our unique, proprietary and industry-leading technology is set to transform the shopping experience of consumers around the world. We have partnered with Kroger to help it redefine the grocery customer experience in the United States through the adoption of the centralized, automated model of online retailing provided by the Ocado Smart Platform.

Come join us as we build our North American team, bringing world-class innovation and technologies to one of the most exciting global markets for e-commerce.

What You Will Do

The Controls Engineer will report directly to the respective shift assigned Engineering Team Manager with a dotted line to the Regional Systems Delivery Engineers. As a Controls Engineer working within the Customer Fulfillment Center (CFC), the role will provide front line support to the Automation Control team to ensure that control issues, including PLC code related issues within our live operational systems, are investigated and resolved as quickly as possible.

Daily Controls Engineer roles may involve:

• Where a hardware fault is identified, activate a pre-defined workaround or make temporary modifications to PLC code to allow the operation to continue;
• Work with the Automation Control team to diagnose and deploy the required code fixes;
• Provide front line issues investigation of live production control systems (hardware and software) including the use of relevant diagnostic tools such as Profibus / Can Bus networks, Bar Code Readers;
• Carry out planned maintenance across the site;
• Analyze data and find solutions to improve MHE performance;
• Complete quality inspections to ensure work is completed to a safe standard

The Controls Engineer may be asked to perform tasks as required by management deemed as a reasonable request. This job description is a summary of the typical functions of the role, not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of possible role responsibilities, tasks and duties and is subject to review. The responsibilities, tasks and duties of the job holder might differ from those outlined in the job description and other duties, as assigned, might form part of the job.

The initial 6 to 9 months of employment may involve, likely if a new site, training and most likely require some travel in order to obtain the training from another site in the US and/or UK.  In the event the operation is undergoing its initial startup, the daily responsibilities for this role may be different while supporting the needs of a facility in its initial stages of starting its operations.  Once the facility is commissioned, the roles defined in this job description will become the daily responsibilities for the Controls Engineer.

Who You Are

To qualify for this position, you must meet the following requirements:

• An associates degree in electrical engineering or related discipline or advanced training with a minimum or 5 years experience.
• A minimum of 3 years’ experience as a controls technician, preferably in an automation environment.
• Good technical & experienced hands-on ability relating to automation hardware and software.
• A good understanding of PLC control system architecture and field control devices.
• A good understanding of DC motor controls.
• Online code monitoring, modification and development with any PLC platform; Siemens TIA Portal a plus.
• Experience with SCADA and Siemens HMI systems.
• Experience in a warehouse, distribution, production or FMCG environment.
• Understanding of Control System Communication Protocols such as WCS and WMS systems.
• Sound analytical skills with an eye for detail; good problem solving ability and a practical approach.
• Experience working with computerized maintenance management systems.
• Numerate and PC literate including G-Suite and MS Office programs.
• Flexible to working a shift-based pattern including nights and weekends.

This role will require flexibility due to the facility being a 24/7 operation and a shift pattern that will be utilized will require working days and on call rotations.

Physical Activities: 

• Ascending or descending ladders and stairs. 
• Moving between worksites to accomplish tasks in tight and confined spaces. 
• Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for a prolonged period. 
• Adjusting or moving objects up to 30 pounds in all directions. Work that includes moving objects up to 100 pounds or more. 
• Communicating with others to exchange information. 

Environmental Conditions: 

• Low temperatures and noisy environments. 

Location

This position is based at the Monroe, OH customer fulfillment center in the USA.

For a sense of who we are and what we deliver we invite you to explore online to learn more about Ocado Technology and Ocado Engineering, which directly support the Ocado Solutions division, and take the next step in what will be an amazing career with us.

Learn about our partnership with Kroger:

• Kroger Bets on Robots With Ocado Deal
• Meet Ocado, Kroger’s Newest Weapon in Its Grocery Delivery War with Amazon and Walmart
• Check out this video about our advanced robotics technology

Ocado is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, veteran’s status, or any other classification as required by applicable law.

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