Control Engineer

Innovate; Indiana; On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Innovate is seeking an early-career Controls Engineer to join a manufacturing environment focused on automated production systems. You will support installation, commissioning and optimisation of equipment, including PLC programming (Allen-Bradley) and basic troubleshooting.

A background in electrical engineering or mechatronics is preferred. You will work with experienced engineers and maintenance teams to enhance reliability, reduce downtime and drive continuous improvement across robotics,

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of experience in controls engineering or a related role.
• Practical experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs, including basic programming or troubleshooting.
• Understanding of industrial control systems and automated manufacturing equipment.
• Interest in robotics, conveyors and automated production processes.
• Proactive, good communication, and able to work in a team.
• Relevant qualification in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation or related discipline is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Support installation, commissioning and optimisation of automated manufacturing equipment.
• Assist with PLC programming, troubleshooting and modifications (Allen-Bradley).
• Support robotics, conveyors and automated material handling equipment.
• Help diagnose faults and improve equipment reliability and production efficiency.
• Assist with integration of robotics, sensors and pneumatic systems.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance and engineering teams to resolve issues.
• Support preventive maintenance and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain technical documentation including control programmes and backups.
• Follow safety procedures to ensure compliant operation.

Skills

PLCs programming

Industrial robotics

HMI

Sensors

Automation

Education

Electrical Engineering

Mechatronics

Tools

Allen-Bradley PLCs

Job description

Are you an early-career Controls Engineer looking to develop your skills in industrial automation and robotics?

We are seeking a motivated Controls Engineer with 1-2 years experience to join a manufacturing environment, supporting the development, operation and improvement of automated production systems.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with 1–2 years of relevant experience who wants to build their technical knowledge and gain hands‑on exposure to a range of automation technologies.

Working alongside experienced engineers and maintenance teams, you will help ensure automated equipment operates safely, efficiently and reliably, while contributing to projects that improve production performance and reduce downtime.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the installation, commissioning and optimisation of automated manufacturing equipment.
• Assist with PLC programming, troubleshooting and modifications, particularly using Allen-Bradley control systems.
• Support industrial robotics, conveyor systems and automated material handling equipment.
• Help diagnose faults and identify opportunities to improve equipment reliability and production efficiency.
• Assist with the integration of robotics, sensors, pneumatic systems and other automated equipment.
• Work closely with production, maintenance and engineering teams to resolve technical issues.
• Support preventive maintenance activities and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain accurate technical documentation, including control system programmes, backups and equipment records.
• Follow established safety procedures and help ensure automated systems operate in line with required standards.

What We’re Looking For

• Approximately 1–2 years of experience in controls engineering, industrial automation or a related technical role.
• Some practical experience with PLCs, ideally Allen-Bradley, including basic programming, troubleshooting or system modifications.
• An understanding of industrial control systems and automated manufacturing equipment.
• An interest in robotics, conveyors and automated production processes.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and a willingness to learn new technologies.
• A proactive approach, good communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• A relevant qualification in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation, Controls Engineering or a related discipline is advantageous. Equivalent practical experience will also be considered.

Experience or exposure to any of the following would be beneficial:

• Industrial robotics, such as FANUC or similar platforms.
• Human‑Machine Interfaces (HMIs) and industrial sensors.
• Automated material handling, conveyors or Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs).
• Manufacturing process improvement and equipment optimisation.