Process Control Systems Engineer

Job Summary

• The Process Control Systems Engineer is responsible for the automation system design and integration, including functional, physical, and electrical components in accordance with the site’s specifications. Designs consider electrical schematics, I/O enclosures, instrumentation, PLC, and HMI programming. 

Job Responsibilities and Duties

• Create and implement standards and strategies to improve process efficiency.
• Design and implement PLC code to support the site’s safety, environmental, and production needs. 
• Design PLC code that emphasizes human and machine safety, through logical programming and proper machine interlocking. 
• Support production goals and fixed plant maintenance needs as they arise for control systems modifications. 
• Assist with site-wide equipment specifications as they relate to all aspects of the control systems. 
• Program and configure PLC/HMI/DCS/SCADA systems as needed by production.
• Engineering & design of network diagrams, loop diagrams, P&ID control depictions, Controls Narrative, and Cause and Effect.
• Assist in the planning stages for future projects to ensure the equipment meets the site’s specification.
• Ability to write a scope of work for small projects and manage contractors on site.
• Manage a budget as it pertains to PLC and HMI equipment to help maintain our current equipment and protect against unnecessary downtime expenses. This should include purchasing backup HMI equipment and ensuring PLC and related hardware critical spares are in the warehouse. 
• Maintain backup files for PLC and HMI programs in the event of a failure to protect against costly downtime. 
• Install, commission, and troubleshoot Variable Frequency Drives and Soft-Start equipment. 
• Install, configure, calibrate, and troubleshoot various instrumentation including pressure transmitters, flow meters, belt scales, temperature transmitters, valve controllers, etc. 
• Assist contractors with project commissioning to help ensure projects are completed on time and in a safe manner. 
• Install and maintain control network equipment as needed. Ensure that the equipment used meets the site’s specification. 
• Maintain an open channel of communication between various departments to ensure needs and concerns are addressed. 
• Ability to make sound decisions during high-stress situations. 
• Assist the Electrical Department with equipment installation and troubleshooting as needed. 
• Ability to work overtime as needed to support production down days, equipment failures/troubleshooting, call-outs, and project commissioning. 
• Ability to maintain a high level of productivity with limited supervision. 

What We’re Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering, or closely related discipline preferred.
• Minimum of three (3) years in-field technical experience in process controls engineering, particularly in a PLC and HMI programing field.
• Proficient with reading and understanding PFDs, P&IDs, Loop Diagrams, I/O Schematics, ISA Instrument Datasheets, Control Narratives, and Cause and Effects.
• Solid understanding of process control loops including valve, pump, and instrumentation characteristics (Flow, Pressure, Level, Density, Temperature, pH, and Analyzers). 
• Ability to write PLC/DCS logic and HMI/DCS configuration.
• Ability to identify defects and deficiencies with purpose of providing remediation (Punch list management).
• Alarm rationalization and historian/database management.
• Experience with Allen Bradley and/or Siemens and/or Modicon PLC’s.
• Experience with DeltaV and/or Honeywell and/or ABB DCS.
• Knowledge of the NEC, NFPA, PSM, MSHA, IEC 61131/61508, and ISA codes and standards. 
• Proficiency in Oracle or similar purchasing, procurement, and maintenance software.
• Responsible for ensuring a safe workplace while enforcing safety, environmental, and company procedures and guidelines.
• Proven success in implementing and managing change processes is required.
• Ability to adapt to changes in the work environment, manages competing demands and able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.
• Identify risks that could prevent successful completion of department goals. Assess the potential impact and take action to mitigate the risk. 
• Monitor vendor agreements and performance to ensure service level standards are maintained and that all operational expenses are consistent with contractual obligations.
• Develop and deliver performance reviews for assigned staff.
• Familiarity with modern industrial reliability and condition-based maintenance practices is preferred.
• Will often work alone with minimum supervision. Performs other incidental and related duties as required and assigned.