Job Summary
The Operations Specialist I - WMS and Controls serves as a technical resource supporting Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), controls systems, and automated material handling technologies within the Distribution Center. This individual contributor role supports daily operational activities by coordinating and maintaining effective system utilization, monitoring system performance, troubleshooting operational issues, and assisting with the resolution of WMS and controls-related concerns to support business continuity and service excellence. Working closely with Logistics, Information Technology, maintenance personnel, automation vendors, and Distribution Center personnel, the Operations Specialist I supports system reliability, process compliance, software testing activities, and continuous improvement initiatives that contribute to safe, accurate, and efficient material flow throughout the operation. The role assists with training, user support, systems documentation, data analysis, and the implementation of process enhancements designed to improve operational performance, inventory accuracy, productivity, and customer service. Success in this role is demonstrated through effective support of Distribution Center operations, timely resolution of system-related issues, accurate execution of testing and process activities, strong cross-functional collaboration, and a commitment to continuous learning and operational excellence. This position does not include formal people management responsibilities and contributes to organizational success through technical knowledge, customer focus, teamwork, problem-solving, and support of established logistics processes and business objectives.
Responsibilities
- Serves as a technical resource for Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), controls systems, automated material handling technologies, and related operational applications.
- Supports and coordinates the day-to-day operation of WMS and controls systems for first-shift Distribution Center operations and assists with issue resolution across other shifts as needed.
- Supports Distribution Center activities by helping ensure WMS and controls-related processes are executed in accordance with established procedures, standards, and business requirements.
- Acts as a WMS key user, providing system support and assistance to users regarding system functionality and process execution.
- Supports WMS-related logistics processes and assists with maintaining process documentation, work instructions, and operational standards.
- Provides guidance and assistance regarding system utilization, workflow execution, and adherence to established operational procedures.
- Identifies system, process, and operational issues and communicates recommendations for improvement to appropriate stakeholders.
- Assists with the development and delivery of system-related training and user support materials.
- Responds to system-related questions and supports troubleshooting efforts to minimize operational disruptions.
- Investigates and documents WMS, controls, and automation-related issues and coordinates escalation to appropriate internal teams, software providers, and external vendors, including Viastore, when necessary.
- Partners with Logistics, IT, maintenance personnel, software providers, and automation vendors to support issue resolution, testing activities, and system enhancements.
- Supports WMS, controls, and automation-related projects by participating in implementation, testing, validation, and process improvement activities.
- Assists with software testing activities, including user acceptance testing (UAT), upgrades, enhancements, and technology implementations.
- Monitors system performance and reports issues that may impact operational efficiency, productivity, or service levels.
- Performs routine analysis of WMS, controls, and operational data to identify trends, discrepancies, and opportunities for operational improvement.
- Assists in developing recommendations to improve inventory accuracy, productivity, throughput, and overall Distribution Center performance.
- Supports automated material handling technologies, including ASRS equipment, by resolving minor system-related issues and coordinating escalation of mechanical concerns to appropriate maintenance personnel.
- Participates in continuous improvement initiatives by providing operational feedback, system knowledge, and process support.
- Provides operational support related to workflow execution and resource utilization as business needs require.
- Demonstrates accountability, collaboration, customer focus, continuous learning, and adherence to established operational and safety standards.
- Supports Distribution Center objectives through effective execution of assigned responsibilities, teamwork, and technical knowledge.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Associate degree in Business Administration, Information Technology, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.
- 3+ years of experience in warehouse operations, distribution, logistics, inventory management, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), controls systems, or a related operational environment.
- Experience working with WMS, controls systems, automated material handling technologies, or related business systems preferred.
- Proficiency in the use of personal computers, Microsoft Office applications, and business software systems.
- Strong attention to detail with the ability to maintain a high level of accuracy in work activities.
- Effective organizational, planning, and time management skills.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interact professionally with team members, internal customers, and business partners.
- Ability to troubleshoot routine system and operational issues and escalate concerns as appropriate.
- Ability to prioritize work, manage multiple tasks, and adapt to changing business needs.
- Professional attitude with a customer-focused and team-oriented approach.
- Exhibits initiative by identifying and completing required tasks while seeking guidance and input when appropriate.
- Maintains accountability by taking responsibility for actions, commitments, and results.
- Upholds honesty, integrity, and professionalism in all interactions.
- Fosters collaboration by building positive working relationships and contributing to team success.
- Embraces adaptability through openness to change, continuous learning, and new challenges.
Essential Job Functions
- Must be able to lift up to 70 lbs.
- Must be able to stand for extended periods of time
- Must be able to work at computer terminal/screen for extended periods of time if necessary
- Must be extremely professional, ethical, and customer-focused
- Must be able to work flexible hours/overtime when necessary, including weekends
- Regular and on-time attendance
Perks & Benefits
Phoenix Contact offers a generous benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401k matching, and a generous time off package. There are also a wide variety of additional benefits available including 16 weeks fully paid maternity leave & 10 weeks fully paid paternity leave, life insurance, short & long-term disability, assistance, and more!
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Phoenix Contact is committed to the diversity of our employees. We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status, and family medical or genetic information.
If you need special accommodations to access job openings or to apply for a job, please call 717-944-1300 between the hours of 8 AM and 5 PM, Eastern Standard Time, Monday – Friday or email [email protected].
Notice to Staffing Agencies, Placement Services, and Professional Recruiters:
Phoenix Contact has an internal Staffing Department. Recruiters are hereby specifically directed NOT to contact Phoenix Contact employees directly in an attempt to present candidates. Phoenix Contact will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. Any unsolicited resumes sent to Phoenix Contact, including unsolicited resumes sent to a Phoenix Contact mailing address, fax machine or email address, directly to Phoenix Contact employees, or to Phoenix Contact’s resume database will be considered Phoenix Contact property. Phoenix Contact will NOT pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume. Phoenix Contact will consider any candidate for whom a Recruiter has submitted an unsolicited resume to have been referred by the Recruiter free of any charges or fees. Phoenix Contact will not pay a fee to any Recruiter that does not have a signed Phoenix Contact contract in place specific to the position for which the resume was submitted. Recruiting vendor agreements will only be valid if in writing and signed by Phoenix Contact's Head of People & Organization or his or her designee. No other Phoenix Contact employee is authorized to bind Phoenix Contact to any agreement regarding the placement of candidates by Recruiters. By submitting a candidate to Phoenix Contact, recruiters agree to be bound and comply with this policy.
Skills Required
- Associate degree in Business Administration, Information Technology, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related field, or equivalent education and relevant work experience
- 3 or more years of experience in warehouse operations, distribution, logistics, inventory management, WMS, controls systems, or a related operational environment
- Experience with WMS, controls systems, automated material handling technologies, or related business systems
- Proficiency with personal computers, Microsoft Office applications, and business software systems
- Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accuracy
- Organizational, planning, and time management skills
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to troubleshoot routine system and operational issues and escalate concerns appropriately
- Ability to prioritize work, manage multiple tasks, and adapt to changing business needs
- Professional, customer-focused, and team-oriented approach
- Ability to lift up to 70 pounds
- Ability to stand for extended periods
- Ability to work at a computer terminal or screen for extended periods when necessary
- Ability to work flexible hours and overtime, including weekends, when necessary
- Regular and punctual attendance
What We Do
Phoenix Contact is an independent, global market leader with headquarters in Blomberg, Germany. More than 20,000 enthusiastic people around the world develop, produce, and sell our creative solutions in connection technology, electronics, and automation. The "Phoenix terminals" and "Phoenix connectors" are known worldwide. We see our work as a contribution to designing a smart world. A global network in more than 100 countries guarantees the important proximity to our customers. Our innovative products and solutions are characterized by high quality. Users in many industrial fields – electric-mobility, mechanical engineering, wind energy, solar energy, building automation, cyber security, automotive – trust Phoenix Contact products. Here you will find important information and news about Industry 4.0 (Smart Factory, Internet of Things), building management, e-mobility, energy transfer and many other areas in which you will find Phoenix Contact products. The success of the company is primarily based on our employees’ performance. Become part of the team and shape the future with us. Find the right opportunity in our job offer and pursue your career at Phoenix Contact
