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Automation Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Automation Engineer

Evansville, IN · On-site

$95K - $143K/yr

The Senior Automation Engineer will partner with the plant floor leaders, engineering, quality, food safety, and the automation manager to support production equipment improvements, controls upgrades ...

Sr. Automation Engineer

Evansville, IN · On-site

$95K - $143K/yr

The Senior Automation Engineer will partner with the plant floor leaders, engineering, quality, food safety, and the automation manager to support production equipment improvements, controls upgrades ...

Ten years' experience in engineering and automation. Having some tooling experience is a plus. Additionally, experience in a manufacturing facility especially automotive background is an asset.

Summary The Senior Automation Engineer supports automation systems, interfaces and equipment. Responsible for management of the automation systems across the facility (building/process/laboratory)

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Showing results 1-20

Automation Engineer information

See Indiana salary details

$35.2K

$101.9K

$155.1K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer in Indiana is $101,938.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,300.00 and $117,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Automation Engineer vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectAutomation EngineerControl Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like PLC or SCADABachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, industrial plants, automation companiesIndustrial facilities, manufacturing, process control environments
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, manufacturing, automation service providersIndustrial sectors, process industries, automation firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between Automation Engineers and Control Systems Engineers lies in their focus areas. Automation Engineers typically design and implement automated systems across various industries, emphasizing software and hardware integration. Control Systems Engineers concentrate on designing and maintaining control systems for industrial processes, often with a stronger emphasis on control theory and hardware. Both roles require similar qualifications and are often found working in manufacturing and industrial environments, but their specific responsibilities and focus areas differ.

What are Automation Engineers?

Automation Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement automated systems and processes to improve efficiency, quality, and productivity in various industries. They work with technologies such as robotics, control systems, and software to automate repetitive or complex tasks. Their responsibilities often include programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining automation equipment, as well as collaborating with other engineers to optimize workflows. Automation Engineers are employed in sectors like manufacturing, IT, automotive, and pharmaceuticals.

What is the work of an automation engineer?

An automation engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that automate manufacturing processes, software testing, or other repetitive tasks. They use tools like PLCs, scripting languages, and automation software to improve efficiency and reduce manual effort. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of control systems are essential for this role.

Is there a shortage of automation engineers?

Automation engineers are in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, technology, and automotive due to increasing automation and integration of control systems. The job market for automation engineers is generally strong, with many employers seeking candidates skilled in PLC programming, robotics, and control systems, often requiring relevant certifications and experience. This demand is expected to continue as companies focus on efficiency and Industry 4.0 initiatives.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior-level engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly in tech companies or executive roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Engineer, you need a strong grasp of control systems, programming (such as PLC, Python, or C++), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with automation platforms like Rockwell, Siemens, or SCADA systems, as well as certifications like ISA or relevant vendor-specific credentials, is highly valued. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and troubleshooting complex issues. These skills and qualifications are critical for designing efficient automated solutions, minimizing downtime, and ensuring seamless integration of systems.

What are some common challenges Automation Engineers face when integrating new systems into existing workflows?

Automation Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new automation solutions with legacy systems, including compatibility issues and data migration complexities. Coordinating with cross-functional teams—such as IT, operations, and production—can require extensive communication to ensure seamless implementation. Additionally, balancing the need for system reliability with innovation and minimizing downtime during transitions are key concerns. Proactively addressing these challenges through thorough planning and testing helps ensure successful integration.

What Does an Automation Engineer Do?

As an automation engineer, your job is to design and develop automated machines for your company. Your responsibilities may include determining the best way to implement automation, creating devices that meet the company's needs and specifications, testing robots to ensure they perform as designed, and monitoring existing automation to check if repair or replacement is needed. Many duties of this job vary by industry. For example, automation engineers work in areas like the automotive industry, food preparation and packaging, electronics production, and appliance production, and each of these fields has different materials and objectives. However, regardless of industry, most automation engineers work with both hardware and software.

Will AI replace automation engineer?

AI is a tool that can automate certain tasks within an automation engineer's role, such as data analysis and process optimization. However, automation engineers are essential for designing, implementing, and maintaining complex systems that require human oversight, problem-solving, and domain expertise. AI is expected to augment rather than fully replace automation engineers in most environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Automation Engineer jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Automation Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,938 per year, or $49 per hour.

Automation Engineer (multiple openings)

Simtra BioPharma Solutions

Bloomington, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead the design, development, and implementation of site process automation and controls systems.

  • Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC and HMI programs.

  • Identify and drive improvement opportunities for equipment, instrument, and process optimization, efficiency, and cost reduction through automation technologies.


Job description

Simtra BioPharma Solutions (Simtra) is a world-class Contract Development Manufacturing Organization, partnering with pharmaceutical and biotech companies to bring their sterile injectable products to market. With facilities in Bloomington, Indiana, US and Halle/Westfalen, Germany, we offer a wide range of delivery systems including pre-filled syringes, liquid/lyophilized vials, diluents for reconstitution, powder-filled vials and sterile crystallization.
Our product types include biologics and small molecules, cytotoxics, highly potent compounds, diluents for reconstitution and vaccines - which are all directly injected into patients worldwide. As such, there is a strong emphasis on quality and continuous improvement at Simtra. We hold ourselves to the highest quality and regulatory standards.
While our primary focus is cGMP manufacturing, we offer many support services including formulation and development, lyophilization optimization, global regulatory support and secondary packaging. Our teams are driven to help clients scale, innovate and bring life-changing medicines to patients worldwide.
Why join Team Simtra?Because we:
Make it HAPPEN - We bring a growth mindset to every opportunity, developing new skillsets and exceeding our expectations and those of our customers.
Make it TOGETHER - We work as one, respecting each voice and tapping into our unique strengths across teams-so we can solve problems in new ways.
Make it RIGHT - We hold ourselves to a high standard of excellence, fulfilling our commitments to the customer, their patients, and our team members.
Make it COUNT - We take pride in our day-to-day work, knowing the impact we make - taking on challenges big and small to improve patient health.
This role:
We are looking for Automation Engineers (level depends on experience) that are responsible for leading the identification, implementation, optimization, and maintenance of process automation and controls systems in pharmaceutical processing, packaging, and facilities. These engineers ensure efficient, quality, functional, and compliant process automation systems and supports engineering systems, capital projects, technical services, and plant support, as applicable. These positions are 100% onsite at the Bloomington, Indiana facility and reports directly to the Sr. Manager, Automation Engineering.
The responsibilities:
  • Lead various aspects of support needed in the design, development, and implementation of the site process automation and controls systems
  • Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC & HMI programs
  • Specify and configure ins
  • Identify and drive improvement opportunities for equipment, instrument, and process optimization, efficiency, and cost reduction through automation technologies and lead initiatives to implement projects
  • Lead the deployment of the full system lifecycle for process automation and control systems including the design, assessment, selection, commissioning, validation, and implementation of systems
  • Troubleshoot automation and controls systems issues, conduct root causes analysis, and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime and ensure continuous operations
  • Conduct risk assessments of automation and controls systems
  • Ensure automation and controls systems meet regulatory requirements by conducting and assisting with validation activities

Required qualifications:
  • Level I: BS in Engineering (Computer, Electrical, Computer Science, Systems Engineering and Design, or related field) or 6+ years of relevant experience
  • Level II: BS in Engineering (Computer, Electrical, Computer Science, Systems Engineering and Design, or related field) or 10+ years of relevant experience
  • Level III/Sr: BS in Engineering (Computer, Electrical, Computer Science, Systems Engineering and Design, or related field) and 6+ years of relevant experience
  • Level IV/Principal: BS in Engineering (Computer, Electrical, Computer Science, Systems Engineering and Design, or related field) and 10+ years of relevant experience
  • Level V/Sr. Principal: BS in Engineering (Computer, Electrical, Computer Science, Systems Engineering and Design, or related field) and 15+ years of relevant experience
  • Work experience in process automation and controls systems (including programming PLCs, SCADA, and HMI systems) in pharmaceutical and/or manufacturing environments
  • Experience in reading and interpreting electrical schematics and Process & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs)
  • Experience in Ignition SCADA/HMI
  • Knowledge of coding in Rockwell and Siemens (PLCs and HMIs)
  • Knowledge of automation and controls hardware and software systems
  • Ability to prioritize projects and workload
  • Excellent verbal communication and technical writing skills

Physical/safety requirements:
  • Duties may require overtime work, including nights and weekends
  • Position requires sitting for long hours, but may also involve walking or standing for long periods of time
  • Variable travel of 0-10% could be expected
  • Must be able to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 lbs
  • Must be able to lift 20 lbs overhead
  • Must be able to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), as required

In return, you'll be eligible for [1]:
  • Day One Benefits
    • Medical & Dental Coverage
    • Flexible Spending Accounts
    • Life and AD&D Insurance
    • Supplemental Life Insurance
      • Spouse Life Insurance
      • Child Life Insurance
    • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Company Match
    • Time Off Program
      • Paid Holidays
      • Paid Time Off
      • Paid Parental Leave and more
    • Adoption Reimbursement Program
    • Education Assistance Program
    • Employee Assistance Program
    • Community and Volunteer Service Program
  • Additional Benefits
    • Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
    • Voluntary Insurance Benefits
      • Vision Coverage
      • Accident
      • Critical Illness
      • Hospital Indemnity Insurance
      • Identity Theft Protection
      • Legal and more
    • Onsite Campus Amenities
      • Workout Facility
      • Cafeteria
      • Credit Union

[1] Current benefit offerings are in effect through 12/31/26
Disclaimer
This job description is intended to provide the minimum knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform the job. It may not be inclusive of all the duties and responsibilities of the job. Simtra reserves the right to make modifications based on business requirements.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Simtra is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Simtra evaluates qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, disability/handicap status or any other legally protected characteristic.
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