Controls Engineer

Job Title: R&D Automation Controls Engineer

Job Description

The R&D Automation Controls Engineer will support a Research Automation and Engineering team in the Indianapolis, Indiana area by designing, developing, integrating, and supporting custom control systems for novel machines, scientific laboratory automation, and other enabling technologies. This role focuses on implementing robust PLC and HMI solutions for process control and data acquisition, with a strong emphasis on system integration, safe process control, and hands-on work with Rockwell platforms, SCADA/IIoT systems, and electrical design and fabrication. The engineer will manage multiple projects concurrently, from concept through implementation, and will act as a proactive, business-partner-oriented contributor to the broader R&D organization.

Responsibilities

• Perform process mapping and optimization on existing control schematics to improve system performance and reliability.

• Develop and modify custom machine control systems, including process improvements and restructuring of control software for enhanced functionality and efficiency.

• Prepare process flow diagrams, electrical schematics, and other detailed project documentation to support design, implementation, and maintenance activities.

• Analyze equipment specifications and performance requirements to determine appropriate control system designs and component selections.

• Collaborate with external vendors to identify, evaluate, and integrate their hardware and technologies into existing and new processes.

• Assist with the installation, commissioning, and validation of new and modified equipment to ensure safe and reliable operation.

• Independently manage assigned projects, including defining functional solutions from a project scope, planning tasks, coordinating timelines, and ensuring deliverables are met.

• Oversee multiple projects at different stages, such as actively developing one system while planning another, ordering parts, and accounting for equipment lead times.

• Design and implement robust custom PLC and HMI solutions for process control and data acquisition in R&D automation projects.

• Integrate Rockwell control systems, SCADA/IIoT platforms, and associated electrical designs into laboratory and manufacturing environments.

• Ensure that all control system designs follow appropriate safety and health practices and standards.

Essential Skills

• At least 3 years of Controls Engineering experience with industrial PLC control and automation systems integration and design, including PLCs and I/O hardware.

• At least 3 years of experience implementing and managing projects related to controls and automation.

• Hands-on experience with Rockwell / Allen-Bradley platforms, including ControlLogix / Logix 5000 PLCs.

• Experience programming PLCs from scratch and modifying existing PLC code for process improvements.

• Experience with SCADA and HMI systems, including configuration, integration, and support.

• Experience working in a manufacturing environment with exposure to industrial automation equipment and processes.

• Proficiency in control system design and electrical schematic design for custom process solutions.

• Experience with HMI development for operator interfaces and process visualization.

• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot complex control and automation issues.

• Demonstrated ability to manage projects autonomously, including planning, execution, and coordination with stakeholders.

• Knowledge and experience related to safety and health considerations in control system and equipment design.

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering.

• Experience with IIoT and SCADA platforms such as Ignition.

• Experience with Python for automation, scripting, or integration tasks.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in manufacturing environments is highly desired.

• Experience with Inductive Automation Ignition for SCADA/HMI is highly desired.

• Experience integrating SCADA/IIoT solutions with PLC-based control systems.

• Experience with electrical design and fabrication for custom control panels and automation equipment.

• Ability to work as a proactive, business-partner-centric engineer, collaborating effectively with R&D scientists, engineers, and external vendors.

• Strong documentation skills for creating process flow diagrams, schematics, and technical reports.

• Ability to prioritize and balance 3–5 projects at various stages, including design, planning, and implementation.

Work Environment

The role is based in the Indianapolis, Indiana area and operates primarily within a laboratory environment when supporting automation and engineering activities, with exposure to manufacturing settings as needed. The team maintains a very friendly, close-knit culture that values collaboration and open communication. The position offers a hybrid work arrangement after an initial period on-site, typically allowing two days per week of flexible work or the option to leave early and complete appropriate tasks from home. The work involves hands-on interaction with PLCs, HMIs, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley systems, SCADA/IIoT platforms such as Ignition, and electrical design and fabrication tools. The organization provides paid holidays and paid time off, supporting a healthy work–life balance. Dress expectations align with a professional lab and engineering environment, including appropriate attire for working around laboratory and industrial equipment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Indianapolis, IN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $55.00 - $70.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in Indianapolis,IN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 1, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.