Abbott

Sr. Controls Engineer (Warehouse Support)

Abbott$78K — $156K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering (Electrical or Controls Engineering preferred) or equivalent work experience
  • 4-7+ years of experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting (Prefer Allen-Bradley)
  • Experience in FDA regulated manufacturing or consumer packaged goods
  • Proficient with industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, Profibus, etc.) and electrical systems
  • Proven ability to troubleshoot complex automation issues under time pressure

Responsibilities

  • Diagnose and resolve PLC, HMI, and control system issues impacting warehouse operations
  • Provide real-time support to operations teams to minimize downtime
  • Analyze system faults, alarms, and logs to identify root causes and implement corrective actions
  • Develop and maintain accurate as-built documentation for PLC programs and control systems
  • Create and continuously improve standardized troubleshooting guides and procedures
  • Identify opportunities for system improvements to enhance reliability and efficiency
  • Develop and execute preventive maintenance strategies for PLCs and automation systems

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health and wellness benefits
  • Support for work-life balance
  • Opportunities for continuous improvement training
  • Access to professional development resources
Full Job Description
JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Opportunity
  • This is not a remote opportunity
  • Traveling up to 5%
  • Relocation assistance is not authorized for this position.


This position works out of our Abbott Distribution Center (North Chicago), IL location in the Core Diagnostics Division.

What You'll Work On

The Warehouse PLC / Controls Engineer is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and improving automated control systems within a warehouse or distribution environment. This role focuses on maximizing system uptime through rapid issue resolution, preventive maintenance, and continuous improvement of PLC-controlled equipment such as conveyors, sortation systems, and automated material handling systems.
  • Diagnose and resolve Programmable Logic Control (PLC), Human machine interface (HMI), and control system issues impacting warehouse operations.
  • Provide real-time support to operations teams to minimize downtime.
  • Analyze system faults, alarms, and logs to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
  • Support troubleshooting of automation systems including conveyors, sorters, pick by light and robotics systems.


System Documentation
  • Develop and maintain accurate as-built documentation for PLC programs, network architecture, and control systems.
  • Update electrical schematics, I/O lists, and system configurations as modifications occur.
  • Ensure documentation is organized, version-controlled, and easily accessible.


Troubleshooting Guides & Knowledge Sharing
  • Create and continuously improve standardized troubleshooting guides and procedures.
  • Develop training materials and provide guidance to operators and maintenance technicians.
  • Capture lessons learned from recurring issues to build robust knowledge bases.


Continuous Improvement & Upgrades
  • Identify opportunities for system improvements to enhance reliability, efficiency, and performance.
  • Propose and implement equipment upgrades, control logic enhancements, and process optimizations.
  • Collaborate with vendors and engineering teams on system modifications and new installations.


Preventive & Predictive Maintenance
  • Develop and execute preventive maintenance strategies for PLCs, control panels, and automation systems.
  • Monitor system health and implement predictive maintenance techniques to prevent failures.
  • Ensure compliance with maintenance schedules to maximize uptime and equipment lifespan.


Testing & Commissioning
  • Support commissioning of new equipment, system upgrades, and retrofit projects.
  • Conduct Factory and site acceptance testing (FAT/SAT) testing and validate system performance post-implementation.
  • Verify proper operation of safety circuits and compliance with standards.


Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering (Electrical or Controls Engineering preferred) or equivalent work experience.
  • 4-7+ years of experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting (Prefer Allen-Bradley).
  • FDA regulated manufacturing, consumer packaged goods or similar experience.
  • Experience with validation or commissioning documentation.
  • PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, Profibus, etc.)
  • Electrical systems and control panels
  • Proven ability to troubleshoot complex automation issues under time pressure.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Prefer Experience in warehouse automation, distribution centers, or material handling systems.
  • Experience with WMS and other IT/OT systems integration.
  • Working knowledge of the principles of quality software engineering as described by software lifecycle development processes that are consistent with ISO, IEEE, or other FDA recognized standards.
  • Programming experience using current programming languages (C#, html, SQL) and/or experience in software development.
  • Be familiar with tools within Continuous Improvement (e.g., 6 Sigma, Lean, Kaizen, etc.) and participate in problem resolution.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and know how to prioritize the workday.
  • 'Out-of-the-box' thinking and problem solving.


Key Skills
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Hands-on troubleshooting expertise
  • Clear technical documentation ability
  • Continuous improvement mindset
  • Effective communication with cross-functional teams


Learn more about our health and wellness benefits, which provide the security to help you and your family live full lives: www.abbottbenefits.com

The base pay for this position is
$78,000.00 - $156,000.00
In specific locations, the pay range may vary from the range posted.

JOB FAMILY:
Engineering

DIVISION:
CRLB Core Lab

LOCATION:
United States > North Chicago : K02

ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS:

WORK SHIFT:
Standard

TRAVEL:
Yes, 5 % of the Time

MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE:
Not Applicable

SIGNIFICANT WORK ACTIVITIES:
Continuous sitting for prolonged periods (more than 2 consecutive hours in an 8 hour day), Keyboard use (greater or equal to 50% of the workday)

About Abbott

Abbott Careers

Joining Abbott means becoming part of a globally diverse team dedicated to making a lasting impact on human health. As a leader in healthcare innovation, Abbott provides a dynamic workplace where careers flourish through growth, leadership, and diversity training.

Opportunities at Abbott

Explore a world of opportunities with our team. Whether you're seeking job opportunities in engineering, marketing, research, or healthcare, Abbott offers a variety of positions that allow professionals to grow their careers. Our commitment to diversity and innovation is evident in every aspect of our work, fostering an inclusive culture that values each team member's contribution.

Work You'll Do

At Abbott, every role contributes to our mission of helping people live fuller lives through better health. From groundbreaking research in medical devices to advancements in pharmaceuticals, our team is at the forefront of healthcare innovation. By joining Abbott, you are not just accepting a job; you are embarking on a path of professional and personal growth.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with an Abbott internship. Our programs provide invaluable industry experience and a chance to develop essential skills in a real-world setting. Interns at Abbott work on projects that matter, gaining the experience and knowledge necessary to succeed in their future careers.

Professional Development

Abbott is dedicated to the continuous professional development of its employees. With access to cutting-edge technology, leadership programs, and diversity training, our team members are equipped to lead and innovate within the healthcare industry. We support your career journey with robust training programs, mentorship, and opportunities for networking and professional growth.

Benefits and Culture

Our employees enjoy comprehensive benefits designed to support their life and well-being. From health insurance to retirement plans, we ensure our team has everything they need to thrive. Abbott's culture is built on a foundation of respect and integrity, united by a shared commitment to improving health outcomes.

Join Our Team

Discover the impact you can make with a career at Abbott. We are hiring individuals who are passionate, curious, and driven to lead. Search open positions that match your skills and interests on our Jobs page. Prepare your resume, sharpen your interview skills, and get ready to join a team that's at the cutting edge of healthcare solutions.

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Explore Abbott

With a commitment to improving life through innovation, leadership, and diversity, Abbott is a place where you can fulfill your potential. See what exciting and rewarding opportunities await at Abbott by exploring our career opportunities today.

SEARCH ABBOTT JOBS

Join us in our mission to make the world a healthier place through innovation, leadership, and diversity. Your journey to a fulfilling career at Abbott starts here.
Learn more about Abbott
Size
113,000 employees
Market Cap
$189 billion
Industry
Net Income
$4.4 billion
Founded
1944
5 Year Trend
+15.6%
Revenue
$34.6 billion
NASDAQ

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