Instrumentation and Controls Technician Manager

Instrumentation and Controls Technician Manager

$105k - $135k per year

East Chicago, IN Full Time;
Direct Hire

The Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Manager is responsible for overseeing all instrumentation and control activities across plant operations. This role leads a team of I&C Technicians and support staff to ensure the effective installation, testing, maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of instrumentation, measurement, and control systems. The I&C Manager focuses on optimizing system performance and reliability, driving preventive maintenance and repair initiatives, and ensuring full compliance with safety and environmental standards.

This position works closely with cross‑functional teams to support operational goals and strengthen collaboration across the organization.

5-10 years of progressive experience, including supervisory or leadership responsibilities, with strong technical expertise in instrumentation, control systems, and team management

Extensive experience managing instrumentation and controls operations, preferably within industrial energy, power generation, or utility environments

High level of proficiency with personal computers and software applications, including Microsoft Office (Excel and Outlook required)

In-depth knowledge of process control and automation systems, including DCS and PLC platforms (Rockwell / Allen‑Bradley and/or Modicon preferred)

Strong understanding of industrial networking and communication protocols such as Modbus, OPC, and HART

Comprehensive knowledge of VFDs, PID controllers, temperature and pressure transmitters, flow meters, proximity probes, and position sensors

Demonstrated ability to perform root cause analysis and implement effective corrective actions

Advanced troubleshooting skills in electrical, electronic, and pneumatic control systems

Working knowledge of steam turbines, boilers, environmental control systems, and water treatment plant operations

Experience using Maximo or similar computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS)

Solid understanding of environmental, health, and safety regulations and compliance programs

Lead, supervise, and support the Instrumentation and Controls team, including technicians and support personnel

Develop and implement technical training programs to enhance team skills in instrumentation, automation, and control systems

Perform on‑site work in an industrial or power plant environment, including hands‑on field activities performed independently or with team members

Plan, prioritize, and oversee maintenance of automation systems supporting steam and electrical power generation, boilers, and environmental systems

Promote a strong safety culture by enforcing safety policies and addressing unsafe conditions or behaviors

Build and maintain effective working relationships with operations, union operators, crafts, and management teams

Oversee installation, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, testing, calibration, and documentation of electrical, control, and automation systems

Collaborate with area leadership on routine electrical and mechanical engineering activities and special projects

Supervise troubleshooting and maintenance of DCS and PLC systems, including Bailey Infi‑90, Rockwell Control Logix, and Schneider Electric Modicon platforms

Evaluate plant performance using historian systems such as eDNA and PI

Provide oversight and support for workstation computers and related control system hardware

Support annual budgeting for maintenance parts, materials, and instrumentation needs

Schedule and manage preventive maintenance and calibration activities for field instrumentation

Identify spare parts requirements to support reliable plant operation and continuous improvement initiatives

Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and performance support to I&C team members

Ensure all work is completed in accordance with established policies, procedures, safety requirements, and environmental regulations

Perform additional duties as assigned based on operational needs

The successful performance of this role requires the ability to:

Operate hand tools and manipulate valves and manual controls

Lift and carry up to 80 pounds

Climb stairs and ladders and work at heights using appropriate fall protection

Bend, kneel, and maneuver in confined or restricted spaces

Work in hot, noisy, dusty, dark, or industrial environments

Clearly identify labels, gauges, dials, and indicators

Communicate effectively with plant personnel, including use of radios

Read, write, and understand work instructions and technical documentation

Work outdoors in varying weather conditions

Work extended hours, including emergency response and outage support

Perform duties with minimal supervision

Industrial or power generation facility with some office‑based responsibilities

Exposure to dust, chemicals, high noise levels, confined spaces, and elevated work areas

Occasional overtime, weekend, and holiday work to support 24/7/365 operations