1

Process Automation Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Process Automation Engineer information

See Indiana salary details

$48.1K

$102.7K

$164.1K

How much do process automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for process automation engineer in Indiana is $102,690.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,400.00 and $124,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Process Automation Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering, process control, and automation principles, usually backed by a degree in electrical, mechanical, or chemical engineering. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, programming languages (such as ladder logic and Python), and relevant certifications like ISA CAP are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and drive process improvements. These skills are crucial for designing reliable automation solutions that enhance efficiency, safety, and productivity in manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges Process Automation Engineers face when implementing new automation solutions?

Process Automation Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation systems with legacy equipment, ensuring minimal downtime during implementation, and managing resistance to change from operational staff. Additionally, troubleshooting unforeseen issues during testing and commissioning phases requires strong problem-solving skills. Working closely with cross-functional teams, including IT, operations, and maintenance, is crucial to address these challenges effectively and ensure successful automation rollouts.

What does a Process Automation Engineer do?

A Process Automation Engineer designs, implements, and maintains automated systems used in manufacturing or industrial processes. They work to improve efficiency, quality, and safety by integrating technology such as robotics, control systems, and software into production lines. Their responsibilities often include analyzing current processes, identifying areas for automation, programming controllers, and troubleshooting issues. Additionally, they collaborate with other engineers and technicians to optimize workflows and ensure smooth operation of automated systems.

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

AspectProcess Automation EngineerControl Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like PLC or SCADABachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Control Engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, automation projectsDesign and testing of control systems, industrial automation settings
Industry UsageManufacturing, oil & gas, pharmaceuticalsManufacturing, energy, automation industries
Job FocusDeveloping and maintaining automation processesDesigning and implementing control systems hardware/software

Process Automation Engineers and Control Systems Engineers often share similar credentials and work environments, focusing on automation within industrial settings. While Process Automation Engineers primarily develop and optimize automation processes, Control Systems Engineers concentrate on designing and implementing control hardware and software. Both roles are essential in manufacturing and energy sectors, with overlapping skills but distinct focuses.

What job categories do people searching Process Automation Engineer jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Process Automation Engineer jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Process Automation Engineer jobs in IN? For Process Automation Engineer jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Process Automation Engineer job openings in Indiana as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,690 per year, or $49.4 per hour.
Sr. Principal Engineer, Automation Engineering, Controls System Hardware - Lilly Medicine Foundry

Sr. Principal Engineer, Automation Engineering, Controls System Hardware - Lilly Medicine Foundry

Lilly

Lebanon, IN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Eli Lilly and Company rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 70 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

At Lilly, we unite caring with discovery to make life better for people around the world. We are a global healthcare leader headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our employees around the world work to discover and bring life-changing medicines to those who need them, improve the understanding and management of disease, and give back to our communities through philanthropy and volunteerism. We give our best effort to our work, and we put people first. We're looking for people who are determined to make life better for people around the world.

The Senior Principal Engineer - Automation Engineering will work as a member of the Automation Engineering Department at Eli Lilly, Foundry. The principal engineer will provide automation support for one or more operating areas across site and/or for capital projects, with primary focus on Instrumentation and Control Hardware. Process Automation is core to delivering the right first-time facility start up and continued support of ongoing manufacturing operations into the future.

The Principal Engineer is also responsible for the productivity and mentorship of the other Engineers in the team with the purpose of ensuring that reliable and compliant control applications and systems are used in the manufacturing at Foundry. Additionally, the Principal Engineer, as a key technical expert will collaborate with partners within the process control organization and across functional disciplines to support the process control technical agenda, business plan priorities, and compliance objectives.

In the project delivery phase and startup phase of the project (startup expected 2026 to 2028), automation engineering roles will be fluid and dynamic as we endeavor to support the project delivery, build a new organization, develop and implement the necessary systems and business processes required to support GMP operations, and build the site culture. This will require significant collaboration, creativity and resilience as the site grows to a full scale GMP manufacturing through start up.

Key Objectives/Deliverables:

  • Lead site operation support, capital project execution and commissioning & qualification.
  • Demonstrated ability in translating technical concepts for executive audience and/or non-technical stakeholders.
  • Deep Expertise working with DeltaV Distributed Control System, Batch Process Automation.
  • Deep Expertise working with Rockwell Allen Bradley PLC's, FactoryTalk View.
  • Expertise working with DeltaV control panels, DeltaV Remote I/O panels and Rockwell I/O's.
  • Expertise in performing automation engineering activities including design, Development and Commissioning Process Automation projects using DeltaV DCS, tuning and troubleshooting of control loops.
  • Thorough understanding of various process control communication protocols.
  • Develop and implement the Automation Engineering Project Plan.
  • Define strategies for periodic and corrective maintenance of Instruments and Control hardware.

Operational Excellence

  • System level thinking and expertise working with multi-disciplinary teams.
  • Technical Leadership in leading projects from concept through Commissioning and Qualification.
  • Demonstrated ability in resolving complex technical challenges with instrument and control system hardware.
  • Technically lead and oversee the work of Site Area leads and System Integrators.
  • Develop and Review Functional Requirements, Design Specifications and Test Specifications.
  • Thorough understanding of 21CFR Part 11, GMP processes.
  • Demonstrated experience with developing and utilizing Master maintenance plans.
  • Lead/Participate in design reviews and Site system hardware reviews, attend equipment and FATs.
  • Provide periodic status updates to Leadership and Project Management.
  • Implement and support electronic systems (such as plant historians) used to capture process automation related production data.
  • Maintain the validated state of the site control system hardware in line with Lilly quality standards including the development and execution of validation strategies and associated documentation.
  • Promote the use of automation to improve productivity, operational efficiency and compliance.
  • Develop a 'network' of corporate contacts and leverage corporate expertise when needed.
  • Experience in clinical-stage manufacturing with flexible, multi-product capabilities is preferred.

Organizational Capability

  • In coordination with automation and compliance consultants, set and reinforce standards for appropriate rigor in automation work products.
  • Mentor process control team to strengthen technical capabilities and adopt best practices to enhance system reliability and business continuity.
  • Be a fully active member of the flow leadership in running the plant, including participation on technical sub-teams.

Basic Requirements:

  • Minimum B.S. in Engineering and experience in Automation Engineering, preferably in major pharmaceutical manufacturing.
  • 8+ years working experience in Biopharma engineering, operations, or manufacturing.
  • Biotech or Small Molecule Experience is a must.
  • Experience working in highly automated Greenfield Pharmaceutical facility, using DeltaV DCS, Rockwell Allen Bradley PLC, BMS and Warehouse Monitoring from design through Startup.
  • Demonstrated initiative, good planning and organizational skills, ability to prioritize tasks, commitment to task completion and timelines.
  • Possess a keen technical curiosity and has demonstrated strong problem-solving skills and a desire for continuous improvement
  • Demonstrated ability to influence peers and business partners, influence without authority.
  • Good written and verbal communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences
  • Knowledge of GMP, regulatory requirements, computer system validation
  • Qualified applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Lilly will not provide support for or sponsor work authorization or visas for this role, including but not limited to F-1 CPT, F-1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, J-1, H-1B, TN, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, or L-1.

Lilly is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities to actively engage in the workforce, ensuring equal opportunities when vying for positions. If you require accommodation to submit a resume for a position at Lilly, please complete the accommodation request form (https://careers.lilly.com/us/en/workplace-accommodation) for further assistance. Please note this is for individuals to request an accommodation as part of the application process and any other correspondence will not receive a response.

Lilly is proud to be an EEO Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender identity, sex, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.


Our employee resource groups (ERGs) offer strong support networks for their members and are open to all employees. Our current groups include: Africa, Middle East, Central Asia Network, Black Employees at Lilly, Chinese Culture Network, Japanese International Leadership Network (JILN), Lilly India Network, Organization of Latinx at Lilly (OLA), PRIDE (LGBTQ+ Allies), Veterans Leadership Network (VLN), Women's Initiative for Leading at Lilly (WILL), enAble (for people with disabilities). Learn more about all of our groups.

Actual compensation will depend on a candidate's education, experience, skills, and geographic location. The anticipated wage for this position is

$66,000 - $171,600

Full-time equivalent employees also will be eligible for a company bonus (depending, in part, on company and individual performance). In addition, Lilly offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees, including eligibility to participate in a company-sponsored 401(k); pension; vacation benefits; eligibility for medical, dental, vision and prescription drug benefits; flexible benefits (e.g., healthcare and/or dependent day care flexible spending accounts); life insurance and death benefits; certain time off and leave of absence benefits; and well-being benefits (e.g., employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities).Lilly reserves the right to amend, modify, or terminate its compensation and benefit programs in its sole discretion and Lilly's compensation practices and guidelines will apply regarding the details of any promotion or transfer of Lilly employees.

#WeAreLilly


What Eli Lilly and Company employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Eli Lilly logo

About Eli Lilly

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Eli Lilly, based in Indianapolis, IN, US, is one of the pioneers in the pharmaceutical industry with a rich history dating back to 1876. This global pharmaceutical company focuses on discovering, developing, manufacturing and selling pharmaceutical products in approximately 120 countries. The company's product categories include endocrinology, oncology, cardiovascular, neuroscience, and immunology. Having invested over $9 billion in research and development in the past decade, Eli Lilly is also committed to creating high-quality medicines that meet real needs. As a recipient of several awards and recognitions, Eli Lilly is known for its focus on life-saving research and drug development. Their mission is to make medicines that help people live longer, healthier, and more active lives.

Industry

Pharmaceutical product wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Indianapolis, IN, US

Year founded

1876