Controls Software Engineer -Lockbourne, OH - Swisslog Global

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary controls and automation resource supporting the onsite System Operations (Sys Ops) team at our customer site.
• Provide in-depth technical expertise across automation systems, control architectures, industrial networks, PLCs, HMIs, drives, and material handling equipment to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the facility.
• Partner closely with the Sys Ops team to troubleshoot complex controls issues, support error recovery, reduce downtime, and improve system performance.
• Analyze automation system performance, including PLC execution, fault trends, equipment availability, network health, and material flow, and develop solutions that drive continuous improvement.
• Support automation projects and system upgrades by coordinating with OEMs, vendors, and internal stakeholders, managing controls requirements, and assisting with testing, commissioning, and startup activities.
• Modify, maintain, and optimize PLC and HMI applications supporting facility operations.
• Support, troubleshoot, repair, and upgrade installed automation systems while working closely with the Sys Ops team.
• Provide after-hours controls support as needed to maintain system availability and operational performance.
• Assist Sys Ops technicians and operations personnel with controls-related troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and error recovery.
• Maintain material handling control systems, including PLC/PC controllers, industrial networks such as Asi, Profibus, motor control systems, servo drives, frequency drives, and electrical distribution systems.
• Support internal and external controls upgrades, lifecycle replacements, and capital projects.
• Analyze automation system performance and identify opportunities to improve reliability, throughput, and maintainability.
• Communicate technical issues, corrective actions, and improvement recommendations to the Site Manager and Sys Ops leadership team.

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or material handling systems.
• Strong electrical and electromechanical troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to diagnose and resolve complex automation and controls issues using PLC software and diagnostic tools.
• Ability to read, understand, and modify PLC programs in multiple programming languages such as Ladder, Function Block, Statement List, etc.
• Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced distribution environment.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and customer-focused approach.
• Industrial experience with sound knowledge of electro-mechanical or automation systems.
• Application knowledge of warehouse distribution systems (pallet or tote conveyor, storage and retrieval machines, monorail systems, etc).
• Experience with AC Variable Frequency Drives and low voltage controls systems.
• Experience programming Variable Frequency Drives from scratch.
• Expert-level troubleshooting and modification experience with Siemens PLC platforms.
• Experience supporting Siemens-based material handling and warehouse automation systems.