Automation Control Engineer Jobs in Durham, NC (NOW HIRING)

Department: Operations Facility Maint MCDG

Employment Type: Full Time, Non-Exempt
Reports To: VP of Operations

Supervises: This individual has no staff

Approved Date: 3/31/2026

Major Working Conditions

Internal contacts are with VP of Operations, VP of Warehouse Manager, Warehouse Supervisor, automation system/Palletizer Personnel, Certified Maintenance Technician, KPI Automation team and other external contacts with vendors, suppliers and maintenance related to the KPI automation system.

Primary Function

The Automation Control Systems Operator is primarily responsible for the daily operation of the KPI automated warehouse system by managing production workflows at the switch platform. This position ensures the accurate and timely movement of product through the automated system by monitoring system data, controlling production workflows, and maintaining synchronization between the physical product flow and system data.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor all case data as it releases from the automation system and makes its way down to each palletizer using the switch Ignition software.

• Troubleshoot and identify preventative maintenance on the automated case pick system including the conveyor system, automation system, switch platform, and palletizers. This will include daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly maintenance as outlined in Operator’s Manual.
• Assist in completing product movements in and out of the automation system as needed.
• Provide corrective / reactive maintenance on assets within the facility as required.
• Perform root-cause analysis on asset failures with the goal of preventing reoccurrence.

• Complete necessary “search timing edits” and “active edits” as necessary to maintain case data.
• Communicate any lane failures with each automation system operator to ensure there is no downtime during production. This can be accomplished by using the fault alert system on the Ignition software.
• Communicate with platform operators to diagnose and resolve any data issues or mechanical problems that appear at the palletizers.
• Verify all QA notification that appear at the switch platform and resolve as needed.
• Monitor the case orientation and condition to ensure that product is sent down each decline safely.
• Start and Stop production using the Ignition software as needed to perform any data manipulation during production.
• Monitor all incline and decline data on the Ignition software to ensure that product is moving from point A-C without any interruption.
• Manage all data inserts as needed in the Ignition software to match the physical cases that are present at the switch or decline.

• Training of other employees in support, recovery, and maintenance of field assets.
• May be required to perform other duties as requested, directed or assigned.

Qualifications

• A bachelor's degree in computer science, Engineering, Mathematics, Supply Chain Management, related military experience, or equivalent job experience
• Eligible applicants must hold and maintain a valid driver’s license and have a satisfactory MVR and background screening. Applicant must also pass all required pre-employment drug screening.
• Working knowledge of automated warehouse systems, conveyor systems, and electromechanical equipment.
• Basic understanding of PLC-controlled automation systems and industrial control software.
• Experience using HMI or SCADA platforms.
• Ability to troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, controls, and software-related issues in an automated environment.
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office applications and maintenance reporting systems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to perform root cause analysis.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills while working with operations, maintenance, vendors, and technical support personnel.
• Ability to prioritize work and perform effectively with minimal supervision in a fast-paced production environment.
• Two to five years of experience in an industrial maintenance, automation, manufacturing, or warehouse environment.
• Experience with automated conveyor systems, material handling equipment, or warehouse automation preferred.
• Ability to read blueprints, schematics and wiring diagrams to extract necessary technical information
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• Basic computer networking skills
• Ability to operate equipment including boom lift, scissor lift, and forklift as needed
• Must be a self-starter, well organized, and be able to work independently without on-site supervision
• Involves frequent contact with employees and the management team
• Work involves frequent changes in activities and priorities
• Ability to lift, lower and carry objects up to 50 lbs., work from heights, climb ladders, and work in confined spaces
• Requires standing, walking, bending, climbing, and lifting throughout the workday
• Noise levels and temperatures typical of an industrial warehouse environment