Senior Operational Technology (OT) Systems Engineer – Industrial Automation, Robotics Integration & Field Engineering (On-Site, High-Travel Role)

About arenaflex and the Opportunity

arenaflex is a leading private-sector organization that operates at the intersection of logistics innovation, industrial automation, and large-scale systems engineering. Our teams design, deploy, and support the technology infrastructure that powers some of the most complex distribution and material handling environments in the world. We are looking for a seasoned engineer who thrives in hands-on, on-site environments and is ready to take ownership of mission-critical Operational Technology (OT) systems from concept through commissioning.

This is not a remote or work-from-home position. The selected candidate will report in person to an assigned arenaflex office and will be expected to travel 80–90% of the time to project sites, vendor locations, and customer facilities. In return, you will join a technically deep, collaborative engineering culture that values craftsmanship, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Position Summary

The Senior Operational Technology (OT) Systems Engineer at arenaflex is responsible for creating, planning, testing, integrating, and delivering both software and hardware solutions for complex industrial control systems. You will lead site visits to evaluate system performance, assess foundations, and provide direct project support, while also serving as the technical bridge between engineering teams, vendors, contractors, and on-site cross-functional staff. Your work will directly influence system functionality, performance, and reliability across high-volume operational environments.

What You Will Do Day-to-Day

• Manage the full project lifecycle, including scope definition, resource planning, design initiation, build-up, deployment, and final commissioning of OT systems.
• Test applications rigorously to confirm that designs meet all stated requirements and address real business needs, then recommend the best-fit solution.
• Lead on-site work alongside vendors, technicians, electrical contractors, mechanical contractors, and local cross-functional staff to achieve project objectives tied to system functionality, performance, and reliability.
• Identify issues that require escalation to specialist engineers or application developers and coordinate rapid resolution.
• Communicate proactively with supervisory teams, providing project updates and ensuring the effective execution of technical solutions.
• Collect and analyze data from tested solutions, comparing results against established benchmarking data to validate effectiveness.
• Perform field verification to confirm that installed solutions meet both customer expectations and arenaflex’s internal installation standards.
• Manage engineers and vendors responsible for workstation, server, and embedded system program development for complex control systems.
• Follow up formally (status meetings, written reports) and informally with assigned resources to keep team productivity, project schedules, and deliverables on track.
• Provide on-site field support for system integration activities whenever required.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues to translate overall system designs into concrete project requirements, including software, hardware, and process specifications.
• Attend design review meetings with both internal and external stakeholders to clarify business needs and system requirements.

Essential Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Automation, or a related technical discipline.
• Demonstrated experience managing end-to-end OT or industrial control system projects.
• Strong working knowledge of Linux-based operating system environments.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional technical teams and coordinate with external vendors and contractors.
• Solid understanding of project lifecycle management, including scope, scheduling, resource allocation, and risk mitigation.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical information for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Willingness and ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, with 80–90% travel.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States. Must be a U.S. citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident, or an alien authorized to work for this employer.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with robotics system development and integration.
• Proficiency in one or more of the following languages and tools: C++, Python, Rust, or MATLAB.
• Broad experience in robotics or material handling system design, development, applications, and integration.
• Familiarity with current security practices, protocols, and industry standards relevant to OT environments.
• Prior experience working in logistics, distribution, manufacturing, or similar industrial settings.
• Exposure to embedded systems programming and real-time control architectures.

Key Skills and Competencies for Success

• Technical Depth: Comfortable working across software, hardware, and integrated systems in a fast-paced industrial environment.
• Problem Solving: Able to triage complex issues quickly and route them to the right specialist when needed.
• Project Leadership: Skilled at managing timelines, budgets, vendors, and internal contributors without losing sight of the end goal.
• Field Readiness: Energized by working on-site, in active operational environments, and able to adapt to changing conditions.
• Collaboration: Builds trust with electricians, mechanics, contractors, engineers, and business stakeholders alike.
• Quality Orientation: Committed to verifying that every installed solution meets stringent performance and reliability standards.

Work Schedule and Travel

This is a full-time manager-level position classified as FT Manager with an internal grade of 20E. The standard work schedule is Monday through Friday, typically 40+ hours per week, with a flexible schedule as project demands require. As noted, this role requires 80–90% travel, including weekends when project timelines demand it. Candidates should be comfortable spending the majority of their time in the field, on customer sites, or at vendor locations.

Career Growth and Learning Opportunities at arenaflex

At arenaflex, engineering is not a static discipline. We invest heavily in the long-term development of our technical talent. As a Senior OT Systems Engineer, you will have access to:

• Hands-on exposure to large-scale robotics, automation, and material handling systems rarely found in conventional engineering roles.
• Mentorship from senior engineers and technical leaders with decades of combined experience in industrial automation.
• Structured career pathways into technical leadership, architecture, and program management roles.
• Continuous learning opportunities, including training in advanced robotics frameworks, modern programming languages, and emerging OT security standards.
• Cross-functional exposure that builds your understanding of how software, hardware, and operations converge in real-world environments.

Compensation and Benefits

arenaflex offers a competitive compensation package designed to attract and retain top engineering talent. The salary range for this position is approximately $35–$40 per hour, depending on experience, qualifications, and work location. In addition to base pay, eligible employees may receive:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement and savings programs.
• Paid time off, holidays, and flexible scheduling where business needs allow.
• Travel-related allowances and reimbursements consistent with company policy.
• Access to training, certification programs, and professional development resources.
• An inclusive, harassment-free workplace committed to equal opportunity for all employees.

Our Commitment to Equal Opportunity

arenaflex is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We are committed to maintaining a working environment free from discrimination and harassment, where every engineer has the opportunity to contribute, grow, and succeed based on merit.

Ready to Build the Systems That Move Industry Forward?

If you are an experienced OT or industrial systems engineer who enjoys solving complex integration challenges, leading on-site technical teams, and traveling extensively to deliver high-impact automation projects, arenaflex wants to hear from you. This is your opportunity to join a company that takes engineering seriously, invests in its people, and operates at the forefront of industrial technology. Bring your expertise, your curiosity, and your drive, and help us design and deploy the systems that keep the world’s most demanding operations running.

Apply today and take the next step in your engineering career with arenaflex.