3rd Shift Controls Engineer – PLC & Automation Lead

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

Job summary

Ashford Connex, LLC in the Indianapolis area is seeking a Controls Engineer for the third shift to support automated manufacturing and warehouse operations across multiple facilities. You will develop and implement control strategies, program PLCs, troubleshoot, and optimize equipment reliability and production efficiency.

The ideal candidate has an associate degree or equivalent experience, strong PLC programming and motion control knowledge, and the ability to lead cross‑functional teams.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or two to four years of equivalent 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.
• Valid driver's license.
• Availability to work third shift and travel approximately 50%-70%.

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

Industrial automation

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Leadership influence

Education

Associate degree

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering

Tools

Allen-Bradley

RSView

Rockwell Automation

Job description

Ashford Connex, LLC in the Indianapolis area is seeking a Controls Engineer for the third shift to support automated manufacturing and warehouse operations across multiple facilities. You will develop and implement control strategies, program PLCs, troubleshoot, and optimize equipment reliability and production efficiency.

The ideal candidate has an associate degree or equivalent experience, strong PLC programming and motion control knowledge, and the ability to lead cross‑functional teams.