Field Service Automation Engineer; Contingency

Field Service Automation Engineer (Contingency Hire)

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The K  Field Service Automation team installs and maintains automated systems used in industrial or manufacturing settings. They ensure material handling automated equipment, controllers, and software operate efficiently to optimize production processes. Their work often involves troubleshooting on-site, programming PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), and integrating new technologies. Additionally, they collaborate with engineering teams and clients to tailor automation solutions to the specific operational needs of our clients.

A Field Service Automation Engineer installs, maintains, and repairs automated equipment at customer sites. They troubleshoot hardware and software issues to ensure systems operate efficiently and with minimal downtime. The role involves frequent travel, hands‑on technical work, and direct customer interaction. Regular inspections and system updates are also part of the job to maintain optimal performance. The job is on‑site and not remote.

• Generate electrical schematics, P&IDs, and sequence of operations.
• Conduct SOPs, risk assessments, validation reports, FAT/SAT documentation.
• Root cause analysis for equipment and controls failures.
• Program, test, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, and robotics.
• Conduct system integration, calibration, and validation of automation equipment.
• Monitor the software platform and analyze the data to facilitate efficiency and readiness.
• Use dashboards or analytics platforms for downtime/OEE tracking.
• Lead control system projects from concept to commissioning.
• Analyze system data and diagnostics to improve reliability, efficiency, and productivity.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, industry regulations, and internal quality procedures.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in electrical engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• Willingness to travel for commissioning and support.
• PLC programming (Siemens, Allen‑Bradley/Rockwell, Beckhoff, Omron) – five years field experience.
• HMI/SCADA configuration (Wonderware, Ignition, WinCC, Factory Talk View) – three years or more experience.
• Motion control systems (servo motors, VFDs, stepper systems).
• PID tuning and loop control.
• Proficiency in industrial Ethernet (Ether Net/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP/IP).
• Fieldbus protocols (CANopen, Device Net, Profibus, AS‑i).
• Network design and diagnostics (VLANs, switches, routers).
• Integration with robotic systems (Fanuc, KUKA, ABB, Yaskawa).
• Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS).
• Conveyor systems, sorters, pick‑to‑light/put‑to‑light systems.
• Experience with goods‑to‑person (GTP) and shuttle systems.
• Electrical panel design and wiring (AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN).
• Familiarity with NFPA 70/NEC, UL, CE standards.
• Safety systems (Safety PLCs, light curtains, emergency stops, interlocks).
• Experience with MES/WMS/WCS integration.
• SQL and data logging for performance monitoring.

• Degree or work experience in Mechatronics or related field.
• 5–8+ years in automated warehouse material handling systems.
• Experience in e‑commerce or high‑throughput logistics environments (e.g., Amazon, Ocado, DHL).
• Familiarity with cloud‑based automation monitoring or BBMS platforms.

K  is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.