Manager, Controls

FORTNA partners with the world’s leading brands to transform omnichannel and parcel distribution operations. Known world-wide for enabling companies to keep pace with digital disruption and growth objectives, we design and deliver solutions, powered by intelligent software, to optimize fast, accurate and cost-effective order fulfillment and last mile delivery. Our people, innovative approach and proprietary algorithms and tools ensure optimal operations design and material and information flow. We deliver exceptional value every day to our customers with comprehensive services and products including network strategy, distribution center operational design and implementation, material handling automated equipment, robotics and a comprehensive suite of lifecycle services.

At FORTNA, we believe in fostering a workplace that isn't just a job but a movement – a collective effort to redefine success and transform challenges into opportunities. "Join the Movement" encapsulates our commitment to a workplace culture that thrives on collaboration, celebrates diversity, and empowers every individual to contribute to something greater than themselves. Our Team. Our Passion. Our Approach. 

Position Summary

We are seeking a results-oriented Team Manager – Controls Support Engineering to lead a technically diverse team responsible for the long-term support and optimization of installed warehouse automation systems. This leader will be accountable not only for daily support operations, but also for developing and executing a measurable, structured cross-training program that ensures all team members are capable of supporting multiple controls platforms and technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and manage a multi-skilled team of controls engineers providing technical support for post-commissioned systems.
• Develop, implement, and maintain a structured, measurable training and cross-training program to upskill team members across a range of control platforms
• Monitor training progress through KPIs, skills matrices, and milestone tracking to ensure capability gaps are closed.
• Oversee and prioritize resolution of technical issues in live systems, ensuring minimal operational disruption and high customer satisfaction.
• Act as an escalation point for complex troubleshooting and critical incidents.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with software, mechanical, and site operations teams to resolve systemic issues and improve system performance.
• Maintain rigorous documentation, knowledge bases, and standard operating procedures.
• Allocate resources efficiently and manage workload balancing across shifting priorities.
• Conduct regular team performance reviews, career development planning, and mentorship.
• Support a culture of continuous improvement in support processes, training, and system reliability.

Qualifications

• High school degree
• 5+ years of experience in industrial automation with at least 2 years in a team leadership role.
• Proven experience with multiple controls platforms.
• Strong background in system troubleshooting, diagnostics, and long-term technical support.
• Demonstrated success in designing and executing team training or capability development programs.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in fast-paced, high-uptime environments.
• Occasional travel may be required for site visits or escalated support.

Preferred Qualifications

• Formal Training/degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Familiarity with warehouse automation technologies (conveyors, ASRS, shuttles, robotics, etc.).
• Experience managing or collaborating with global support teams.
• Knowledge of service management tools and support ticketing systems (Jira, SalesForce).
• Understanding of version control and change management for PLC and automation systems.

The base salary range for this role is $115,900 to $173,800. This base salary range represents the low and high end of the base salary range for this position. Actual base salary offered will vary based on various factors including but not limited to location, level, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and performance.

This job description describes the general nature and level of work expected of a person assigned to this position. All job requirements listed indicate the minimum level of knowledge, skills and/or ability deemed necessary to perform the job proficiently. Employees may be required to perform any other job-related duties as requested by their supervisor.

It is the policy of FORTNA and its affiliated companies to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, citizenship status (if authorized to work in the U.S.), or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, FORTNA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.