Controls Engineer — PLC & Automation Lead (3rd Shift)

Henderson Group; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Henderson Group in the Indianapolis area is seeking a Controls Engineer for the 3rd shift to support automated manufacturing and warehouse operations within a confidential beverage manufacturer. You will troubleshoot, program, and improve PLC-based controls while guiding teams across facilities.

The role focuses on implementing control strategies, testing and repairing motion systems, and driving reliability and efficiency improvements. Travel ~50–70% is required.

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.
• 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

Leadership

Analytical skills

Strong communication

Education

Associate degree or 2-4 years experience

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related

Tools

Allen-Bradley controls

Rockwell Automation platforms

RSView

Job description

Henderson Group in the Indianapolis area is seeking a Controls Engineer for the 3rd shift to support automated manufacturing and warehouse operations within a confidential beverage manufacturer. You will troubleshoot, program, and improve PLC-based controls while guiding teams across facilities.

The role focuses on implementing control strategies, testing and repairing motion systems, and driving reliability and efficiency improvements. Travel ~50–70% is required.