Department: Logistics & Distribution
Reports to: Shift Manager
Hours: 4 on / 4 off shift pattern, 09:00–21:00
About Us:
We are a major UK retailer with a network of over 200 stores and a thriving e-commerce business. Our state-of-the-art distribution centre combines manual, semi-automated, and fully automated systems to deliver fast and accurate service to customers across the UK. With significant investment in automation, including an AutoStore storage and retrieval system and a CMC Genysis automated packing line, our logistics operation is evolving to meet the future needs of omnichannel retail.
Role Purpose:
The Warehouse Technician supports the smooth running, performance, and reliability of automated systems within the distribution centre — including the CMC Genysis automated packing system and AutoStore. This hands-on role focuses on first-line maintenance, system monitoring, fault finding, and coordination with engineers or vendors when issues arise. The ideal candidate will be technically minded, process-driven, and confident working in an operational environment where automation plays a key role. This is not an engineering role and does not require formal engineering qualifications, but it does demand a high level of mechanical and technical aptitude, attention to detail, and ownership of equipment performance.
Key Responsibilities
Automation & Equipment Support:
- Monitor the performance of CMC Genysis and AutoStore systems throughout the shift.
- Carry out basic preventative maintenance, inspections, and cleaning in line with maintenance schedules.
- Perform first-line fault diagnosis and minor repairs, escalating issues to engineers or service providers when required.
- Support system restarts, resets, and recovery following faults or stoppages.
- Maintain accurate logs of faults, downtime, and corrective actions.
- Support the Engineering and IT teams during maintenance windows and upgrades.
Operational Support:
- Work closely with operations and engineering teams to minimise downtime and maximise productivity.
- Ensure operators are following correct processes when using the systems.
- Assist with changeovers, testing, and calibration on automated machinery as required.
- Support daily start-up checks and ensure systems are ready for production.
Continuous Improvement:
- Identify and report recurring faults or potential improvements in equipment performance or operational practices.
- Contribute to reviews of system performance and maintenance procedures.
- Support process improvements relating to automation uptime, throughput, and product quality.
Health, Safety & Compliance:
Ensure all maintenance and operational activities are carried out safely and in line with company policies.
Maintain a clean, safe working environment around all automation systems.
Follow lockout/tagout and safe access procedures when working on or near automated machinery.
Skills & Experience:
Essential:
- Experience working with automated or semi-automated warehouse or production equipment (e.g., conveyors, sorters, or packing machines).
- Strong mechanical or technical aptitude – comfortable with tools, system interfaces, and fault-finding.
- Understanding of basic electrical and mechanical principles (e.g., sensors, drives, motors, pneumatics).
- Ability to follow maintenance routines, fault logs, and SOPs accurately.
- Excellent attention to detail, organisation, and communication skills.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
Desirable:
- Experience supporting AutoStore, CMC Genysis, or similar automated systems.
- Basic understanding of PLC-controlled systems or HMI interfaces.
- Previous experience in a warehouse, manufacturing, or production technical support role.
- Awareness of health & safety procedures in an automated environment.
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary and shift allowance.
- Full training on AutoStore and CMC Genysis systems.
- Pension and benefits package.
- Opportunities to develop technical skills and progress into engineering support roles.
- A dynamic, forward-thinking environment at the forefront of retail logistics automation.