Job Title: Controls EngineerJob Description

Our Research Automation and Engineering team is seeking a proactive R&D Automation Controls Engineer who is business partner-centric to join our team in the Indianapolis, Indiana area. We are dedicated to the conception, design, development, integration, and support of novel machines and instruments, scientific laboratory automation, and other enabling technologies. The ideal candidate will be responsible for implementing robust custom PLC and HMI solutions for process control and data acquisition for R&D automation projects, with a focus on system integration and safe process control.

ResponsibilitiesPerform process mapping and optimization on existing controls schema.Develop custom machine control system changes for process improvement and restructuring control software.Prepare process flow diagrams, schematics, and other project documentation.Analyze equipment specifications and performance requirements to determine appropriate designs.Collaborate with external vendors to identify, evaluate, and integrate hardware and technologies into processes.Assist in installation and validation of equipment into service.Manage own projects, working on multiple projects simultaneously, including planning, ordering parts, and considering equipment lead times.Test new PLC programs to standardize, manage documentation, and standardize processes during project downtimes.Essential Skills5+ years of experience in industrial PLC control and automation systems integration/design.5+ years of programming from scratch, including setup and programming.Experience with Rockwell, Allen Bradley, and FactoryTalk.Background in integration or manufacturing.Understanding of panel build and wiring.SCADA implementation experience or setting up system/database through ethernet.Project management skills to build out scopes and collaborate with business partners and R&D.Additional Skills & QualificationsBachelor’s degree in engineering is strongly preferred.Experience with Ignition HMI and willingness to train.Coding experience in Python and Ignition.Inductive Ignition experience is highly desired.Strong problem-solving skills and ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.Knowledge and experience in safety and health.Work Environment

Enjoy a friendly culture with a close-knit team in a lab environment. Benefit from paid holidays and PTO, and the opportunity to showcase your skills with the potential to extend your contract long-term. Work alongside senior-level team members who can share knowledge and experience to help develop your skills. The role offers hybrid flexibility with the option to work remotely two days a week after a few months or to complete busy work from home.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Indianapolis, IN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $55.00 - $65.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in Indianapolis,IN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 18, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.