Instrumentation and Controls Engineer

Edgewater Technical Associates is seeking qualified candidates for an Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Engineer opportunity in Oak Ridge, TN
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We’re seeking a I&C Engineer to lead major process controls engineering projects spanning digital control systems (PLC/DCS/HMI), complex test stands, and chemical processes. The I&C Engineer will take problems from issue to solution, setting expectations for data-driven decision making, automation, and the responsible use of AI/agentic AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective, compliant designs. This role blends hands‑on engineering (design, fabrication, assembly, programming, testing) with technical leadership, client engagement, and rigorous software configuration management.

• Engineer and integrate PLC, DCS, HMI, network switches, and control systems; lead programming and commissioning for Allen-Bradley platforms (Control Logix/Compact Logix, Studio 5000, Factory Talk).
• Implement robust controls architectures, safety interlocks, alarming, data logging, recipe management, and historian integrations for test and process systems.
• Develop Functional Requirements and Procurement Specifications for instrumentation and control components and systems.
• Prepare design input documentation for drawings including cable block diagrams, wiring schematics, loop sheets, and detailed I/O maps.
• Help in creating and maintaining P&IDs and System Design Descriptions (SDDs).
• Interface with vendors; prepare and review equipment purchase specifications.
• Produce clear, concise technical reports and engineering studies.
• Establish and enforce software configuration management (SCM) for PLC/HMI code, scripts, and documentation.
• Review design drawings and documentation produced by others.
• Direct process‑improvement initiatives: automate calculations, summarize technical documents, generate design documentation, and guide when/how AI or agentic AI tools are used.
• Oversee engineering automation via Python, MATLAB, or advanced Excel; review and validate automated outputs.
• Champion responsible integration of AI/ML into controls systems, including predictive maintenance and anomaly detection.
• Mentor less experienced I&C engineers and support multidisciplinary engineering teams.

• B.S. or M.S. in Engineering from an ABET accredited program.
• 5+ years of experience in design engineering for process control systems.
• Hands‑on expertise with Rockwell/Allen‑Bradley PLCs and Factory Talk systems.
• Experience designing, fabricating, assembling, programming, and testing test stands and chemical process systems.
• Strong SCM proficiency including Git, versioning, and code reviews.
• Excellent communication skills and experience reviewing design drawings.
• Active DOE Q Clearance or eligibility to obtain.

• Master’s degree in a related engineering field.
• Experience with Plant
  
  PAx, Factory Talk Analytics, OPC UA, historians, and industrial networking.
• Familiarity with SIS, PHA, ISA standards, and NFPA/NEC codes.
• Experience integrating AI/ML into industrial systems.
• Additional learning such as CS, AI, or Software Engineering certificates or minors.

Edgewater is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veterans, or individuals with disabilities in accordance with EO 14173.