Senior PLC Engineer

Senior PLC Engineer | Automation - Peripherals and Mobile Robotics | Hybrid Working | Athens

Ocado Technology is changing the way the world shops using advanced Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics, Big Data, Cloud and IoT. We develop the innovative software and hardware systems that power , as well as the unique ‘Ocado Smart Platform’ which is being implemented by ambitious retailers across the world from Europe to America, Asia and beyond.

Our R&D department is based in Athens, Greece, where a team of brilliant engineers are developing disruptive material handling systems for the online grocery industry and other retail verticals. We pioneer innovative order fulfilment solutions and last‑mile delivery business models tailored for retailers and supply chain‑intensive sectors. Our mission is to assist them in overcoming the challenges inherent in modernising their systems and processes to effectively address complex industry issues.

Some of the most innovative retailers globally have already partnered with us, and we are delivering products and services for them.

If you are excited about the cross‐section where machines meet humans, about the future of work, retail and supply chains, and want to help transform the European logistics industry via Greek technologies, we are interested in getting to know you.

Join a new team in our Athens development centre focused on building PLC controls competency for our Peripherals and Mobile Robotics portfolio. You will oversee the entire control systems lifecycle, from initial design and prototyping to launching cutting‑edge machinery in live warehouse environments. Your work will directly impact the reliability and efficiency of the systems powering the Ocado Smart Platform worldwide.

As a technical authority, you will collaborate with cross‑functional teams and external partners to ensure all automated systems meet rigorous performance standards. This role blends high‑level software engineering—developing robust libraries and automated tests— with hands‑on commissioning and troubleshooting. You will be instrumental in optimising machinery operation and providing essential support for global operational sites.

• Develop and maintain PLC software libraries to enable consistent and rapid creation of new automated machinery.
• Design and prototype control systems for first‑of‑a‑kind machinery, including creating interface specifications and design documentation.
• Perform commissioning and testing of prototypes at both Ocado and client sites to ensure hardware and software integration.
• Execute automated test suites and integration tests to validate system behaviour against the full Ocado software stack.
• Utilise version control tools like Git to manage code changes and ensure robust software revision management.
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical designers to troubleshoot issues during the development and commissioning phases.
• Conduct regular reviews of machine performance against KPIs, using data logs to identify and implement optimisations.
• Act as a technical authority for third‑party supplied systems, ensuring compliance with Ocado's architectural standards.
• Provide high‑level support and training to site engineering teams, including participation in an out‑of‑hours on‑call rota.
• Generate reliability reports and technical documentation to facilitate the smooth handover of equipment to operations.

• Solid understanding of object‑oriented software design principles and software design patterns.
• Experience with version control systems, specifically Git and platforms like Git Hub or Git Lab.
• Proven problem‑solving skills and the ability to innovate within a collaborative team environment.
• Knowledge of machinery standards such as PackML and familiarity with unit testing concepts.

• A degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical subject.
• Experience in industrial automation software development using Beckhoff TwinCAT 3 (Structured Text and OOP). Experience with functional safety methods (TUV or Siemens safety certification).
• Proficiency in developing PLC control…