Automation Engineer

Here at Ocado Logistics it’s our mission to provide an outstanding customer experience for our partners, developing groundbreaking technology, opening multiple sites at an accelerating rate and engaging in exciting new business partnerships around the world - changing the way the world shops, for good. We are the beating heart of our UK business and comprise a network of cutting edge warehouses and offices across the country that ensure that we optimise the experience and use our proprietary technology across the supply chain to deliver an exceptional shopping experience.

About the role: We wouldn’t be able to positively impact the way the world shops without our passionate team members - who keep our business running, our vans delivering, our customers' products picked and packed and our proprietary technology operating at optimum levels. This is a key role in a highly automated, fast-moving established environment, where systems are continuously being upgraded and refined. Your engineering precision will be vital to ensuring the operation performs at its best.

We’re looking for a skilled Automation Engineer with strong PLC expertise who thrives in live operational settings. You’ll ensure our facility and its MHE automation systems operate at peak performance, responding decisively to challenges and continuously driving improvements. Working shift patterns to support 24/7 operations, you’ll be rewarded with a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the opportunity to develop within a forward-thinking engineering team.

What You’ll Be Doing: As a PLC Engineer, you will take ownership of both planned and reactive PLC activities across the CFC. Your work will directly impact operational reliability, safety, and performance. You will:

• Provide front-line support to investigate and resolve PLC code-related issues within live operational systems quickly and safely, minimizing disruption.
• Diagnose root causes and deploy effective PLC code fixes when issues are identified or suspected.
• Implement temporary PLC code modifications or activate predefined workarounds during hardware failures to maintain operational continuity.
• Drive and support improvements across MHE equipment and automated processes.
• Download and configure software to intelligent non-PLC devices (such as barcode readers, shuttle cars, and local accumulation modules) that form part of the wider control system.
• Roll out, monitor, and fine-tune bug fixes, system upgrades, and performance enhancements.

This is a hands-on, high-impact role where your technical expertise will keep a complex automated operation moving safely and efficiently.

About You: You are a technically strong, solutions-focused engineer who is confident working within fast-paced automated environments. You combine hands-on PLC expertise with the ability to prioritise effectively when systems are under pressure. You will bring:

• Strong proficiency in PLC control system architecture, AC/DC motor controls, SCADA, and Siemens HMI systems.
• Proven experience within automated MHE environments, supporting both preventative and reactive maintenance.
• Proven ability in the monitoring, modification, and development of online PLC code, with a preference for Siemens S7 300/400 PLCs.
• A solid understanding of automation hardware and software integration.
• A background in Electrical and/or Mechanical Engineering with a formal qualification (NVQ Level 3, HNC, or equivalent).
• Strong communication, organisation, planning, and prioritisation skills.
• An understanding of equipment criticality within automated environments and the ability to respond appropriately to operational demands.

If you’re motivated by solving complex automation challenges and want to be part of a team where engineering excellence truly matters, we’d love to hear from you.

What you can expect to receive in return: At Ocado we believe in a workplace where everyone feels valued and supported, so you’ll find a safe and collaborative atmosphere that is as fresh as our produce as well as an award winning recognition programme and benefits package that includes a healthy work-life balance, extensive healthcare coverage, competitive salaries, and exclusive employee discounts. We support continuous professional growth, enabling individuals to thrive in all roles, explore diverse career paths and reach their full potential.

Pension Plan: Secure your future with our pension scheme, featuring up to 7% employer contribution matching.

Financial Protection: We offer Income Protection and Life Insurance for financial security.

Wellbeing Support: Access dedicated apps and an Employee Assistance Programme for holistic well-being.

Private Medical Cover: Rest easy with comprehensive private medical insurance.

Generous Leave: Growing after 5 years, with an option to buy more.

Family-Friendly: We support your family with maternity, adoption, shared parental leave, and paternity leave.

Share Schemes: Join exciting share plans to participate in our success.

Lifestyle benefits: Our benefits platform includes a Cycle to Work scheme, car salary sacrifice, and much more.

Shopping Perks: Enjoy a 15% discount on Ocado.com and savings at popular retailers, days out, and restaurants.

Ocado Group is an equal opportunities employer and as such makes every effort to ensure that all potential employees are treated fairly and equally, regardless of their sex, sexual orientation, marital status, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, age, or disability or union membership status.