Leading Logistics Innovation with Data and Technology: Interview with Sub-Hub Center Maintenance Engineers

Stories of JJ and Adam, bringing “Wow the Customer” to life on-site  

Could you introduce yourselves and your team? 

JJ: Hi, I’m JJ, overseeing field engineer operations and management in the CLS Maintenance team. Our team goes far beyond repairing machinery & equipment — we are a core organization safeguarding the stability of Coupang’s Rocket Delivery system. We maximize uptime for automated machinery like sorters and conveyors, and guarantee 24/7 stable operations through preventive maintenance and systematic management. 

Adam: Hello, I’m Adam, responsible for the Middle (Chungcheong/Jeolla/Jeju) Region. Our Maintenance team improves machinery uptime through data analysis and standardization, and builds a stable operating environment through maintenance and performance enhancements. Our four regional teams — covering the East Seoul metropolitan area, West Seoul metropolitan area, Chungcheong/Jeolla/Jeju, and Gyeongsang — perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance activities. 

What was your previous role, and why did you decide to join CLS? 

JJ: For the past 11 years, I have worked across the full spectrum of automation machinery & equipment — from installation to stabilizing operation — gaining well-rounded expertise. In particular, through my hands-on experience in logistics automation, I’ve developed the ability to optimize efficiency and ensure reliable operation. I chose to join CLS because I believed it felt like the right place to fully apply what I’ve learned and continue expanding my capabilities. 

Adam: I spent 13 years at Samsung’s OLED manufacturing plant, covering the full process — from designing and installing machinery & equipment to conducting operation checks. During that time, I developed expertise in eight key technical areas: fastening, lubrication, drive, transmission, electrical, control, instrumentation, and pneumatics. Since semiconductor and display machinery & equipment were already highly standardized, I began looking for a bigger challenge and a chance to grow further. When I came across the job opportunity at the CLS Maintenance team, I decided it was the right moment to take that leap. 

What skills are essential for working as a Maintenance Engineer for CLS sub-hubs? 

JJ: A solid understanding of machinery & equipment principles and structure is essential. Since we manage multiple sites within limited time, the ability to analyze root causes and find efficient solutions matters more than performing simple repairs. Proactive inspections to catch early signs of failure and planning repairs to minimize downtime are critical. Key qualities required include consistency, diligence, responsibility, and persistence to work through complex technical challenges. 

Adam: Technical expertise in automation machinery & equipment, problem-solving skills, and effective communication skills for collaboration are essential. The ability to interpret mechanical and electrical layout accelerates troubleshooting and personal growth. Even if you’re not fully prepared, a willingness to learn will help you build capability quickly on-site. 

What does the career path look like after joining CLS? 

JJ: CLS Maintenance team engineers don’t just handle specific machinery and equipment — we gain hands-on experience with a wide range of advanced automation systems and maximize our technical expertise in line with Coupang’s business expansion. From the initial installation phase through the full lifecycle of each system, we acquire skills in maintenance planning, systematic management, and advanced repair techniques directly on-site. We can also strengthen operational management skills by leveraging key metrics like MTTR (mean time to repair), MTBF (mean time between failures), and Failure Rate for data-driven analysis to develop and execute stabilization strategies. Through these experiences, we can expand our careers from on-site technical experts to system operation and management specialists, ultimately positioning ourselves as top-tier maintenance professionals in Korea. 

Adam: After joining, engineers first build core capabilities including an in-depth understanding of on-site logistics machinery & equipment, technical proficiency, and data processing, then contribute to system standardization. Later, we can expand into roles reviewing and operating next-generation logistics solutions such as drones and outdoor delivery robots, growing into experts who drive CLS’s technological innovation. 

This role requires rotational and shift work. What are the pros and cons? 

JJ: The biggest advantage of rotational work is the chance to experience different camps across the entire Region and gain insight into their facilities and operational environments. This broadens technical knowledge and strengthens problem-solving skills. The downside is that travelling between camps and managing multiple sites can feel overwhelming at first, but it becomes manageable over time. 

Adam: Rotational work enables collaboration with various teams, sharing information, and building networks to solve problems. This process fosters a sense of achievement and belonging to the company. Shift work also has benefits — night shifts, for example, provide more flexibility for personal activities during daytime and come with additional compensation. However, since shift schedules can affect sleep patterns, consistent health management is essential. 

When do you feel most proud as a Maintenance Engineer? 

JJ: I feel the greatest pride when our efforts lead to visible system stabilization and elevate the team’s value and reputation. It is especially rewarding when data clearly proves it. For example, reducing breakdown maintenance cases by over 80% compared to the early stage shows how effective our preventive checks and corrective actions have been. We’ve also reached a point where we no longer rely on external vendors for machinery issues — our team has become the primary problem‑solver, with technical capabilities that match or even surpass outside experts. These achievements are the result of relentless learning and hands-on effort by every team member. Seeing our strong teamwork translating into tangible, stable operations is the most fulfilling moment of all. 

Adam: I feel the most accomplished when I restore machinery & equipment to normal operation through accurate diagnosis and action. In logistics, delays in machinery & equipment recovery pose significant risks, so resolving issues quickly is highly satisfying. I also feel proud when the entire Maintenance team works toward the same goal and achieves it together. 

What is the organizational culture like at CLS and in your team? 

JJ: CLS pursues continuous improvement through horizontal communication and respect for each person’s experience and perspective. Regardless of rank or tenure, team members freely share ideas and transparently exchange information for effective collaboration. Specifically, in the Maintenance team, we aim for machinery & equipment stabilization by actively incorporating on-site engineers’ feedback into our modifications and improvements. This process—valuing diverse insights and reviewing them thoroughly—plays a critical role in enhancing machinery & equipment reliability and operational efficiency. 

Adam: We have a brainstorming-driven culture where every idea is welcomed, and different perspectives are respected during the problem-solving process. This environment helps us pinpoint problems more clearly and work together as one team to solve them. 

What goals do you want to achieve at CLS, both professionally and personally? 

JJ: My top goal is to establish a standardized maintenance process that anyone can easily learn, plan, and execute. This will form a strong foundation for long-term operational stability and help us secure market leadership. To achieve this, I plan to complete an integrated onboarding process that combines training, knowledge sharing, and hands-on practice, enabling new team members to build core skills quickly. I also aim to define clear SOPs so that inspections and troubleshooting are no longer dependent on individual experience. Ultimately, my vision is to build Korea’s leading maintenance training system, where people and systems interact and evolve together. 

Adam: My current goal is to elevate the overall competency of the team. In the long run, I aim for the Maintenance team to directly develop and operate Coupang’s industry-leading logistics automation systems, enabling end users to receive products faster and more conveniently. 

Any tips for candidates applying for this role? 

JJ: In interviews, it’s important to demonstrate not only technical knowledge but also your determination and persistence through specific examples. The CLS Maintenance team does not focus solely on technical skills; we equally value a willingness to learn, a sense of responsibility, and perseverance. 

Adam: Identify your strengths (mechanical, electrical, control, etc.) and set clear goals for the skills you want to develop further. Preparing an action plan for how you will build those capabilities will help you answer confidently during interviews. 

Lastly, any message for candidates interested in joining? 

JJ: This role requires not only technical skills but also flexibility and a proactive attitude toward new environments and systems. The CLS Maintenance team is a group of engineers from diverse backgrounds working together to create synergy. This means it’s essential to respect each other’s experiences while embracing standardized processes that ensure consistency and reduce risks. CLS operates some of the most advanced automation systems in the industry, and if you have a passion for learning, you’ll find growth opportunities here that are hard to match. I’m proud to say CLS’s engineering system is among the best in Korea. You’ll experience an engineering system you simply won’t see elsewhere. If you believe in your skills and passion and are ready to innovate with us, don’t hesitate to apply. We welcome prepared talent. 

Adam: Our Maintenance team thrives in a horizontal culture where we bring out our best while working toward a shared goal. We go beyond simple machinery & equipment maintenance — we proactively manage advanced logistics systems and apply future technologies on-site. If you’re someone who is ready to communicate openly and showcase your capabilities, we’d be happy to have you on board.