Controls Software Engineer

A controls software engineer role focused on real-time systems in a steel manufacturing environment, combining software development, industrial automation, and hands-on plant support to maintain reliability and drive improvements.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and maintain real-time control systems to support continuous production uptime
• Troubleshoot operator-reported system issues and resolve problems impacting production
• Perform routine system checks, log reviews, and preventative maintenance activities
• Ensure daily operations run smoothly by validating applications and communications
• Design, develop, and maintain applications using C#, VB.NET, and scripting languages
• Integrate systems with PLCs, SCADA platforms, and other industrial devices
• Develop and maintain client/server applications and inter-process communications
• Support modernization efforts for automation systems
• Maintain and support network communications across industrial systems (TCP/IP, client/server)
• Configure and troubleshoot managed networks within the plant environment
• Ensure reliable communication between software applications, databases, and hardware systems
• Design, develop, and maintain databases (PostgreSQL or SQL Server)
• Support real-time data acquisition, storage, and retrieval for production systems
• Optimize queries and database structures for performance and reliability
• Work directly on the plant floor in an industrial environment with grease, dust, and heavy equipment
• Diagnose and resolve system issues in real time to minimize downtime
• Collaborate closely with operators to understand issues and improve system performance
• Identify opportunities to improve system performance, reliability, and usability
• Research and implement new tools, technologies, and solutions
• Support knowledge sharing and cross-training within the team
• Participate in on-call rotation to support operations outside standard hours

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in software development and/or industrial systems (flexible based on manufacturing experience)
• Experience with programming languages such as C#, VB.NET, or scripting languages
• Strong experience with database design, development, and management (SQL)
• Understanding of network communications (TCP/IP, client/server architecture)
• Experience with or knowledge of PLC systems and industrial automation environments
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in real-time systems
• Ability to work independently and take initiative in resolving technical challenges

Technologies

• C#, VB.NET, Scripting languages
• PostgreSQL, SQL Server
• TCP/IP, SCADA platforms
• PLC systems, Client/server architecture

Benefits

• Great opportunity to make a big impact and take ownership of technology initiatives
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Relocation assistance

Compensation

• Salary: USD 100,000 - 150,000 per year

Location

• Butler, IN, onsite
• On-site work