Automation Systems Support Engineer

Description Keep the Systems Running That Power Automated Cold‑Storage Facilities Who We Are: US Cold owns and operates one of the most complex temperature-controlled logistics networks in North America. Every day, our systems coordinate the storage and movement of food at national scale across a network of state-of-the-art distribution centers, including multiple highly automated warehouse facilities. We continue to advance our core warehouse and logistics platforms. Our current focus is on modular, event-driven, API-first and cloud architectures. We continue to enhance reliability and accelerate engineering productivity by strengthening our SRE and AI practices. This is a large investment in innovation to continue to drive operational excellence at our facilities. If you want to build durable systems that operate in the physical world at scale, this is that opportunity. The Role: The Automation Systems Support Engineer is responsible for the stability, reliability, and performance of the Windows server environments that power US Cold’s automated facilities. This role focuses on the server, application, and database layers that drive cranes, conveyors, AGVs, and other automation platforms. You will not program PLCs — but you will own the systems those PLC‑driven machines depend on. You are the last line of defense between infrastructure failure and facility downtime. What You Will Own: Health and lifecycle management of Windows Server environments (2016/2019/2022) supporting automation platforms Structured startup and shutdown procedures for automation‑related services, with clear understanding of dependencies System diagrams and documentation that explain how servers, applications, and databases interact with physical equipment OS patching and security updates executed during maintenance windows with zero unexpected operational impact Monitoring and tuning of server performance (CPU, memory, disk I/O) to prevent automation slowdowns Administration of Microsoft SQL Server supporting automation applications, including backups and integrity checks Support and maintenance of vendor‑provided automation applications and OS‑level integrations Diagnosis and recovery of server‑side failures that interrupt automation operations Ownership of system recovery during outages to restore safe and stable facility operation This role is operationally critical. The systems you support directly determine whether automated warehouses run or stop. Technical Environment: Windows Server (2016, 2019, 2022) Microsoft SQL Server Azure‑hosted and hybrid server environments Vendor‑provided warehouse automation applications Facility automation systems including AS/RS, conveyors, AGVs, VNAs, and robotics Foundational enterprise networking (IP, DNS, ports, firewalls) What We’re Looking For: Strong hands‑on experience with Windows Server administration and troubleshooting Practical SQL Server administration skills (backups, restores, connectivity, health monitoring) Experience supporting production‑critical systems where uptime matters Working knowledge of virtualization and cloud‑hosted server environments Foundational networking knowledge sufficient to diagnose connectivity and firewall issues Ability to reason about system dependencies and failure modes across software and machines Calm, structured approach to incident response in high‑impact environments Experience supporting warehouse automation platforms or industrial systems Familiarity with WMS/WCS/WES platforms and their server‑side components Background in logistics, warehousing, or high‑throughput operational environments Exposure to PLC‑driven machinery at a conceptual level Experience participating in incident recovery for production‑critical systems Why This Role Is Different: This is not a generic IT support role. This is not application helpdesk work. You will: Support systems that directly control physical automation. Work in environments where uptime equals throughput. Be trusted with systems that cannot fail silently. See immediate operational results from your work. Operate at the intersection of IT infrastructure and industrial automation. This is a role for engineers who want responsibility, not abstraction. Operational Context: Work occurs in both office and automated facility environments. Systems operate continuously in temperature‑controlled conditions. Incident response may require on‑site coordination during outages. Reliability and safety are non‑negotiable. Compensation & Structure: Salary Range: $86,000.00 - $110,000.00/yr. Location: Hybrid Greater Philadelphia Travel: Less than 10% Reports to: Director of IT Operations Operational Context: This role is primarily technical and office-based, with occasional interaction in operational environments depending on system needs. Benefits Include: If annual hours are attained, these benefits may apply. Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription, Legal Insurance, Pet Discount, Critical Illness, Accident Insurance, Hospital Indemnity, Long Term Care + Permanent Life Insurance, Identity Theft Protection, Short Term Disability Insurance, Long Term Disability Insurance, Supplemental Disability Insurance, Basic Life Insurance, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Supplemental Life Insurance, Supplemental Spouse Life Insurance, Child Life Insurance, Loan Solution, Health Flexible Spending Account, Dependent Flexible Spending Account, Telemedicine, Virtual Primary Care, Prescription Savings Plan, Prescription Specialty Copay Assistance Program, Weight Management Program, Chronic Condition Management, Care Navigator Program, 24/7 Nurse Line, Expert Medical Opinion, Precious Additions Maternity Program, Health Advocacy, Employee Assistance Program, Digital Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Digital Physical Therapy, Behavioral and Mental Health Platforms, Auto and home discount program, Secure Travel Protection, Discount Programs, 401(k) plan, Education Assistance, Paid Time Off, Referral program & Commuter Benefit (NJ ONLY). Physical & Operational Context: May require physical effort associated with using the computer to access information, or occasional standing, walking, lifting needed to carry out everyday activities. Effective communication, vision, and hearing are essential for safety and productivity. Operate scanners, tablets, radios, phones, computers, and other essential equipment as required. Additional work hours may be requested by management to help manage employee production, projects, and/or special events. Engage in frequent personal interaction and communication. Attend in-person meetings and/or training on a regular basis. Possess strong arithmetic and reading skills. Follow verbal instructions, written instructions, and company policies. Work independently and coordinate with others. Fast-paced environment, managing stress and meeting productivity standards. Additional Information: Job functions may vary based on the area of operation. This description outlines the most common tasks required for the job. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential duties. This job description may not encompass all tasks necessary to complete the role.