Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Engineer (3833)

Navarro Research and Engineering is recruiting an Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Engineer (3833) in Oak Ridge, TN.

Navarro Research & Engineering is an award-winning federal contractor dedicated to partnering with clients to advance clean energy and deliver effective solutions for complex challenges in the nuclear and environmental fields. Joining Navarro means being a part of an exceptional team committed to quality and safety while also looking for innovative strategies to create value for the client’s success. Headquartered in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, Navarro has active programs in place across the nation for DOE/NNSA, NASA, and the Department of Defense.

The Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Engineer will lead and support complex process control engineering efforts, including digital control systems, test stands, and chemical process systems. This role spans the full engineering lifecycle—from problem identification through design, implementation, testing, and commissioning—while promoting data‑driven decision making, automation, and disciplined configuration management. The position requires hands‑on technical execution combined with technical leadership, vendor coordination, and effective client engagement.

Major Responsibilities

• Engineer, integrate, program, and commission PLC, DCS, and HMI‑based control systems, including associated instrumentation, field devices, industrial networks, and control panels.
• Lead controls system development utilizing Rockwell/Allen‑Bradley platforms, including ControlLogix and CompactLogix systems with Studio 5000 and FactoryTalk applications.
• Design and implement control system architectures incorporating safety interlocks, alarming strategies, data logging, recipe management, and historian integrations for process and test systems.
• Develop functional requirements documents and procurement specifications for instrumentation and control components and integrated systems.
• Prepare and review design input documentation, including wiring schematics, cable block diagrams, loop sheets, I/O lists and mappings, and configuration documentation.
• Support the development and maintenance of Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) and System Design Descriptions (SDDs).
• Interface with equipment vendors and suppliers; support preparation, review, and evaluation of technical specifications and procurement documentation.
• Produce clear, concise technical reports, engineering studies, and supporting documentation for internal and external stakeholders.
• Establish and enforce software configuration management practices for PLC and HMI software, scripts, and associated documentation, including version control and formal reviews.
• Review engineering drawings, calculations, and technical deliverables produced by other engineers for quality, accuracy, and compliance.
• Lead and support engineering process improvement initiatives through automation, engineering tools, and responsible application of advanced analytics or AI‑enabled methods.
• Utilize and oversee engineering automation tools such as Python, MATLAB, and advanced Excel to support calculations, design documentation, and data analysis.
• Mentor and support less experienced engineers and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary engineering teams.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science or Master of Science degree in Engineering from an ABET‑accredited program.
• A minimum of five (5) years of experience in process control and instrumentation engineering.
• Hands‑on experience with Rockwell Automation / Allen‑Bradley PLCs and FactoryTalk systems.
• Demonstrated experience designing, fabricating, assembling, programming, and testing control systems for test stands and chemical or industrial process systems.
• Strong proficiency in software configuration management practices, including version control and code review processes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience reviewing and producing engineering documentation and drawings.
• Possession of an active DOE Q Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a related engineering discipline.
• Experience with PlantPAx, FactoryTalk Analytics, OPC UA, process historians, and industrial networking technologies.
• Working knowledge of Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS), Process Hazard Analysis (PHA), ISA standards, and applicable NFPA and NEC codes.
• Experience integrating advanced analytics, automation, or AI/ML techniques into industrial or control system environments.
• Additional education or certifications in computer science, artificial intelligence, or software engineering.

Due to the nature of the government contract requirements and/or clearances requirements, US citizenship is required.

Navarro is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, veteran’s status, or any classification protected by applicable state or local law.

EEO Employer/Vet/Disabled

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation & Public Holidays)
• Short Term & Long Term Disability