Control Systems Engineer - PLC

KNAPP brings new technology to warehouse automation. The KNAPP Group is a global provider of intelligent automation solutions for intralogistics and manufacturing, specializing in healthcare, fashion/apparel, general retail, food retail, industry, and service. With over 8,000 employees in more than 60 locations worldwide, KNAPP is dedicated to simplifying complexity through continuous innovation in warehouse automation, tailored to customer needs.

About the role

The Control Systems Engineer - PLC provides control-system focused support to maintain stable and operational automated warehouse systems. This role involves monitoring and troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment (Storage, Conveyor, and Sorter), triaging incidents, restoring service through structured troubleshooting, and coordinating resolution with on-site resources and remote support teams.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and support Storage, Conveyor, and Sorter PLC-controlled automation to maintain stable warehouse operations and minimize downtime.
• Respond to and triage control-system incidents; diagnose faults across PLC logic, HMIs, sensors/actuators, drives/VFDs, and industrial networks (e.g., PROFINET).
• Restore service by resolving root causes or applying approved workarounds; initiate and follow Change Request/Problem Management processes for recurring issues.
• Coordinate with on-site maintenance/controls resources and remote support teams; escalate internally when resolution cannot be achieved within operational scope or SLA timelines.
• Communicate system status and incident updates to stakeholders and provide clear shift handovers, including risks, mitigations, and next actions.
• Maintain accurate tickets and technical documentation (actions taken, backups, versions, and test results) and contribute to trend analysis and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, automation engineering, mechatronics, controls engineering, or a related technical field.
• 3+ years of experience supporting intralogistics automation, including storage systems and conveyor equipment.
• Strong Siemens & Beckhoff PLC knowledge (troubleshooting, online diagnostics, reading/modifying code within approved procedures).
• Ability to diagnose faults across PLCs, HMIs, sensors/actuators, drives/VFDs, and industrial networks.
• Familiarity with ticketing/ITIL-style incident and problem management processes.
• Disciplined approach to change control: backups, approvals, testing, documentation, and version control; no unauthorized changes or safety bypasses.
• Ability to work independently and under pressure in a shift-based environment; strong troubleshooting mindset and hands-on approach.
• Authorization to work in the U.S. and ability to obtain a passport.
• Travel required (30%) and overtime as needed.

Skills

• Strong incident communication, documentation, and cross-team coordination skills.
• Good general IT skills.
• Professional office etiquette.

Working Conditions

• Sitting for long periods, standing, walking, climbing ladders, speaking, visual acuity, finger dexterity, reaching at arm’s length, and lifting up to 30 pounds.

Benefits

• Industry-competitive compensation.
• Health, dental, vision, life insurance, and Flexible Spending Accounts with better-than-average employer contributions.
• 401k with a generous employer match and no vesting period.
• Paid vacation and holidays.
• Profit sharing.
• Paid parental leave.
• Subsidized daycare.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Pet insurance.

Due to the safety-sensitive nature of this position, strict adherence to KNAPP’s drug-free workplace policy is required. All candidates will be subject to drug-screening and must remain drug-free during employment, with no exceptions for recreational or medical marijuana use.