3rd Shift Controls Engineer — PLC & Automation Lead

SteveRecruiter, LLC; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

SteveRecruiter, LLC is seeking a Controls Engineer for the Indianapolis area on a 3rd shift schedule to support automated manufacturing and warehouse operations. You will develop and implement control strategies, program and troubleshoot PLC-based systems, and improve equipment performance across multiple facilities.

This role requires hands-on troubleshooting, programming, and the ability to provide technical guidance while collaborating with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or 2–4 years of related work experience.
• Advanced PLC programming skills and strong knowledge of motion control and industrial automation systems.
• Ability to develop controls solutions and troubleshoot complex equipment problems.
• Strong analytical, planning, organization, and communication skills.
• Ability to lead through technical expertise and influence decisions across departments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement control strategies for automated production equipment, conveyor systems, and warehouse operations.
• Program, troubleshoot, test, and repair PLC-based controls and motion systems.
• Support the design and development of controls for new equipment and system upgrades.
• Establish consistent programming standards, coding practices, and controls documentation across facilities.
• Evaluate automation solutions and recommend improvements to equipment performance and reliability.
• Partner with engineering, maintenance, and operations leaders to prioritize and resolve controls issues.
• Provide technical direction, coaching, and training to site controls engineers and maintenance teams.
• Explain technical recommendations clearly to plant teams and senior leadership.
• Stay current with automation technology, programming tools, and emerging equipment capabilities.

Skills

PLC programming

Motion control

Troubleshooting

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Leadership

Shift flexibility

Travel readiness

Education

Associate degree

Bachelor’s degree preferred

Tools

Allen-Bradley controls

Rockwell Automation

RSView

Job description

SteveRecruiter, LLC is seeking a Controls Engineer for the Indianapolis area on a 3rd shift schedule to support automated manufacturing and warehouse operations. You will develop and implement control strategies, program and troubleshoot PLC-based systems, and improve equipment performance across multiple facilities.

This role requires hands-on troubleshooting, programming, and the ability to provide technical guidance while collaborating with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams.