Lead Automation & Controls Engineer
About the CompanyOur client is a company redefining the rules of sustainable manufacturing. They deliver traceable, mass-balanced circular solutions for the rubber, plastics, and petrochemical sectors — transforming end-of-life tires into high-value materials used by global brands across more than 3,000 applications. With proven technology, a strong commercial track record, and rapid global growth, this company leads the industry in circularity at scale. Executives join for the mission and stay for the people. The team has a bold, collaborative culture driven to make a difference. Position: Lead Automation & Controls Engineer Location: Indianapolis IN, with up to 25% domestic and international travelType: Full-TimeKey ResponsibilitiesLeadershipServe as the primary owner of instrumentation and automation systems across all company facilities Supervise and mentor a Junior Instrumentation and Controls Engineer responsible for logic programming and day-to-day technical executionDefine and document business requirements for automation systems to support operational and financial objectives.Tracking and reporting of KPIs associated with performance of the automation systemsPrepare KPIs to define success of the projects and develop monitoring mechanisms to track those KPIsSystem design and operationsOversee the selection and integration of field instrumentation, control valves, PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems.Ensure compliance with industry standards (e.g., NEC, ISA, NFPA, IEC) and internal specifications.Develop and maintain cause-and-effect diagrams, I/O lists, and control architecture documentation.Monitor system performance and reliability and troubleshoot controls issuesCollaborate with operations and maintenance teams to optimize automation strategiesLead the I&C design of new and revamp projects from concept through design completion to commissioning and start upReview deliverables such as drawings, PFDs, P&IDs, instrument lists, cause & effects, control philosophy, data sheets, etc.Develop detailed work procedures and instructions for commissioning and startupRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Electrical / Controls / Mechanical / Chemical EngineeringMinimum 12 years’ experience in instrumentation and controls design in the oil & gas, gasification, or pyrolysis industries Proven experience with PLC programing, HMI development, and control system commissioning (Allen Bradley / Rockwell experience preferred) Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols such as Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP, etc.Desired QualificationsExperience in manufacturing environment preferredExperience in process scale up, developing safety systems, lifecycle documentation preferredDemonstrated ability to provide technical support during design phase and operationsDesired Soft SkillsStrong communication skills, both written and verbalDetail oriented and quality focusedLeading projects and balance between delegating work tasks and executing workWork in collaborative multi-discipline environmentBerkner Group has been retained to execute this search. If you were contacted by Berkner Group, please reply to the person who contacted you. If you are applying to a job posting, please email your resume and a brief introduction to careers@berknergroup.com. Please include your name and the title for this position ([Your name] - Lead Automation & Controls Engineer - V667Y3V6) in the subject line of your email. We look forward to hearing from you!