What are the responsibilities and job description for the Automation Engineer position at QvalFocus Inc.?
Job Title: Senior Warehouse Automation Engineer
Location: Blue Ash, OH (Onsite) (W2 Only)
Duration: 12 Months Contract
Role Overview
We are seeking a Senior Automation Engineer with deep experience in warehouse automation to lead the design, implementation, and commissioning of a fully automated cold-storage facility. This role will own the automation architecture and controls strategy while working closely with OEMs, system integrators, IT, and operations to ensure a successful and accelerated system go-live.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead end-to-end design, implementation, and commissioning of a fully automated cold-storage warehouse, including:
- AGVs
- Automated pallet handling and exchange systems
- Pallet washers
- Conveyor and material flow systems
- Own the automation architecture and controls strategy, including PLCs, WCS/WMS, safety systems, and SAP integration.
- Partner with OEMs and system integrators to drive detailed technical and design reviews.
- Identify and resolve system bottlenecks and automation risks specific to cold-storage environments.
- Optimize system throughput, reliability, and overall availability.
- Develop interim and fallback operating modes (manual/semi-automated workflows) to support early production and reduce commissioning risk.
- Define automation standards and scalability strategy, including support for future expansion and potential Phase 2 second-floor automation build-out.
- Maintain project schedules and ensure timely delivery of milestones.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline.
- 5 years of hands-on experience designing, installing, and commissioning automated warehouse or distribution center systems.
- Strong expertise with:
- AGVs
- Automated pallet handling/exchange systems
- Conveyor systems
- Material flow automation
- Proven experience collaborating with OEMs, integrators, IT teams, and operations to deploy fully automated warehouse environments.
- Strong problem-solving, communication, and project coordination skills.