Senior PLC Software Controls Engineer

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

Introduction:

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 Ocado.com, 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.

Ocado Technology - Greece (acquisition): https://www.myrmex-inc.com/blog/19

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.

About the Role

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.

Key Responsibilities

• 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.

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Solid understanding of object-oriented software design principles and software design patterns.
• Experience with version control systems, specifically Git and platforms like GitHub or GitLab.
• 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.

Nice to Haves

• 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 systems using Siemens TIA Portal and Ladder logic, ideally.
• Familiarity with web-based HMIs (Beckhoff TF2000) or scripting languages like Python and JavaScript.
• Experience working within Agile frameworks such as Kanban or Scrum.

Benefits

Our employee benefits are designed for you. We care about people and we've ensured we have a wealth of benefits that focus on your well-being. We regularly review our benefits to ensure we are supporting our employees appropriately. Currently, we offer technically stretching work, a competitive salary and:

• A hybrid working policy that sees you in the office typically 40% of your time.
• 30 days 'working from anywhere' policy
• Private Medical Insurance
• Meal tickets
• Home office equipment
• Opportunity to participate in share schemes
• Regular divisional socials, sports clubs and access to the Ocado Technology Academy for a packed schedule of courses, conferences and events.

If you think you have what it takes to make a difference, please submit your application below.

Be bold, be unique, be brilliant, be you. We are looking for individuality and we value diversity. We are an equal opportunities employer and we are committed to treating all applicants and employees fairly and equally. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments to provide a positive, barrier-free recruitment process and supportive work environment. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application.