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…