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Salary: USD 160,000 - 180,000 / annual
Rent the Runway is seeking a Senior Engineer for Warehouse Automation and Controls to lead the design, development, and execution of complex automation engineering projects across their fulfillment infrastructure. This role combines deep technical expertise with strategic project management and carries real decision-making authority.
You will own the delivery of multiple automation projects in parallel, managing timelines, equipment vendors, and system integration contractors to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery with targeted performance metrics. You'll determine how automation lines are configured, evaluate and select automation technologies, and develop comprehensive technical specifications for existing and new equipment.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing vendor relationships, component procurement, and supply chain integration
- Developing and executing comprehensive testing and commissioning plans (FAT, SAT) with site preparation, installation oversight, operator training, and performance validation
- Establishing and enforcing standards for PLC program version control, backup, and as-built documentation
- Troubleshooting and problem resolution of mechatronics systems and hardware (PLC, I/O, communications cards)
- Owning, managing, and scaling IoT dashboards, digital twins, and monitoring across all equipment
- Providing technical guidance on complex engineering issues using analytical techniques, simulation, ROI analysis, and cost/benefit analysis
- Investigating recurring faults and downtime events, determining root cause, and designing corrective actions
- Developing and maintaining standardized documentation for technical SOPs and equipment best practice protocols
- Maintaining high-level communication with cross-functional teams and influencing stakeholders at all levels
- Approximately 25% travel availability required
You will work across multidisciplinary teams, providing engineering leadership and establishing best-in-class design, execution, and management standards. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable diving deep into technical specifications and CAD design while navigating stakeholder relationships and executive communications. You thrive on solving complex technical problems, collaborate naturally across organizational boundaries, and demonstrate a bias for action.
Rent the Runway is transforming the fashion industry through circular fashion and reverse logistics. The company has been named to CNBC's "Disruptor 50" five times and Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies list multiple times.
**Requirements:**
- 4-year degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Controls, or equivalent experience in a relevant technical/engineering field
- 8+ years of experience in manufacturing, warehouse, fulfillment, or industrial environments including oversight of large-scale equipment and systems
- 5+ years designing, programming, and troubleshooting industrial control systems
- Proficiency in ST and one or more of: C, C++, Python, MATLAB/Simulink
- Proven track record managing complex capital projects, budgets, and timelines with demonstrated ability to influence without authority and lead cross-functional technical and non-technical teams; PMP or PRINCE2 certification preferred
- Experience leading equipment commissioning projects from specification to operational turnover, managing vendor performance and work quality to ensure adherence to safety and engineering standards
- Proficiency with VFDs, servo systems, HMIs, and industrial networks
- Subject matter expertise in material handling systems, automation equipment, and large-scale integrated operational infrastructure
- Proficiency in design software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Bluebeam, or equivalent) and familiarity with simulation tools (FEA, motion analysis)
- Experience with TPM, Kaizen, and Lean Manufacturing techniques; certification preferred
- Experience building and managing project budgets with strong financial acumen and cost-benefit analysis skills
- Experience developing standard operating procedures and equipment/systems design specifications
- Experience implementing automation, digitalization, or AI-enabled operational improvements
- Hands-on experience with ML/AI technologies
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with ability to articulate point of view and improve processes
- Strong analytical and data-driven decision-making capabilities with statistical analysis and data storytelling skills
- Commitment to safety, quality, and employee wellbeing
- Background in fulfillment center operations, warehouse automation, or reverse logistics a plus
- Ability to work flex shifts, hours, nights, and weekends as business dictates
