Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Engineer

Napakiak Ventures LLC; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Napakiak Ventures LLC is looking for an I&C Engineer to lead major process controls engineering projects in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. This role involves hands-on engineering and technical leadership, emphasizing the integration of AI/ML into controls systems.

The ideal candidate will have significant experience with PLCs, DCS, and FactoryTalk systems, alongside strong skills in automation and software configuration management. A B.S. or M.S. in Engineering is required.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in design engineering for process control systems.
• Hands on expertise with Rockwell/Allen‑Bradley PLCs and FactoryTalk systems.
• Strong SCM proficiency including Git, versioning, and code reviews.

Responsibilities

• Engineer and integrate PLC, DCS, HMI, and control systems.
• Prepare design input documentation including wiring schematics.
• Champion responsible integration of AI/ML into controls systems.

Skills

PLC programming

DCS integration

Data-driven decision making

Software configuration management

AI integration

Communication skills

Education

B.S. or M.S. in Engineering from an ABET accredited program

Tools

Rockwell/Allen-Bradley PLCs

FactoryTalk systems

Python

MATLAB

Job description

Overview

We’re seeking a I&C Engineer to lead major process controls engineering projects spanning digital control systems (PLC/DCS/HMI), complex test stands, and chemical processes. You will take problems from issue to solution, setting expectations for data-driven decision making, automation, and the responsible use of AI/agentic AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective, compliant designs. This role blends hands-on engineering (design, fabrication, assembly, programming, testing) with technical leadership, client engagement, and rigorous software configuration management.

Responsibilities

• Digital Systems & Controls Engineering: Engineer and integrate PLC, DCS, HMI, network switches, and control systems; lead programming and commissioning for Allen-Bradley platforms (ControlLogix/CompactLogix, Studio 5000, FactoryTalk).
• Implement robust controls architectures, safety interlocks, alarming, data logging, recipe management, and historian integrations for test and process systems.
• Instrumentation Specification & Systems Design: Develop Functional Requirements and Procurement Specifications for instrumentation and control components and systems.
• Prepare design input documentation for drawings including cable block diagrams, wiring schematics, loop sheets, and detailed I/O maps.
• Help in creating and maintaining P&IDs and System Design Descriptions (SDDs).
• Vendor Coordination & Technical Documentation: Interface with vendors; prepare and review equipment purchase specifications.
• Produce clear, concise technical reports and engineering studies.
• Configuration Management & Quality: Establish and enforce software configuration management (SCM) for PLC/HMI code, scripts, and documentation.
• Review design drawings and documentation produced by others.
• Leadership in Automation & AI/ML: Direct process‑improvement initiatives: automate calculations, summarize technical documents, generate design documentation, and guide when/how AI or agentic AI tools are used.
• Oversee engineering automation via Python, MATLAB, or advanced Excel; review and validate automated outputs.
• Champion responsible integration of AI/ML into controls systems, including predictive maintenance and anomaly detection.
• Mentorship & Collaboration: Mentor less experienced I&C engineers and support multidisciplinary engineering teams.

Minimum Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in Engineering from an ABET accredited program.
• 5+ years of experience in design engineering for process control systems.
• Hands on expertise with Rockwell/Allen‑Bradley PLCs and FactoryTalk systems.
• Experience designing, fabricating, assembling, programming, and testing test stands and chemical process systems.
• Strong SCM proficiency including Git, versioning, and code reviews.
• Excellent communication skills and experience reviewing design drawings.
• Active DOE Q Clearance or eligibility to obtain.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a related engineering field.
• Experience with PlantPAx, FactoryTalk Analytics, OPC UA, historians, and industrial networking.
• Familiarity with SIS, PHA, ISA standards, and NFPA/NEC codes.
• Experience integrating AI/ML into industrial systems.
• Additional learning such as CS, AI, or Software Engineering certificates or minors.