Share this job
Automation Engineer
Houston, TX
Apply for this job

Position Description

Primary Duties:

Plan, design, implement and support monitoring and control systems utilized in the operation of liquids pipelines, measurement facilities, pump stations, storage/transfer facilities and products terminals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Design, develop, test and maintain PLC based automation systems, Flow Computer based automation systems and PC based HMI systems.
  • Design and implement automation system networks, including specifying communications protocols, communications media (copper, fiber) and associated hardware such as media converters.
  • Read and interpret electrical, control and instrumentation drawings and provide reviews of design/construction drawing packages.
  • Interface with engineering project managers and operations personnel to integrate facilities and design changes with the local control center.
  • Provide technical expertise in mechanical, instrument, electrical, and/or automation specifications and standards as required.
  • Specify and procure instrumentation and controls related equipment used in automation systems.
  • Develop contractor bid documents, conduct bid process, select contractor and manage contractor throughout automation capital projects.
  • Develop, modify existing procedures and standards such as CRM documents, source control, and audit documentation / requests. This requires collaboration with team members and other departments such as IT/SCADA, Compliance and Control Center. Participation in CRM audits required to answer automation/SCADA questions.
  • Develop and control capital projects. Specifically, develop and control project scope, schedule, projected costs and budgeting, risk management, and quality assurance programs as required to manage capital projects ranging from $20,000 to over $2,000,000.
  • Provide engineering support to Operations and Technical Support Personnel for all related software and hardware, including end devices.
  • Provide on-site services, including oversight of system installation, lead commissioning efforts and supplying troubleshooting support as required.
  • Provide on call remote support to field and control center personnel as needed for safe pipeline control. This support is 24/7 on a scheduled rotation.
  • Accountable for completing tasks with quality, compliance with applicable codes and standards, and on schedule.
  • Job level commensurate with experience. Position may be filled at various levels depending on experience and job skills of the successful candidate.

Position Requirements

Education:

  • Bachelor of Science degree in engineering from an accredited University, preferred Electrical Engineering.
  • Experience may be considered in place of a degree.

Experience/Specific Knowledge:

  • 5- 10+ years of Instrumentation and Control Engineering, Systems Integration or related/applicable experience.

Competencies, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Must have working experience / knowledge of GE/Emerson PLC and PAC systems (GE 90-30 series, Versamax, Genius blocks, Rx3i, Slice I/O) and its programming software, Proficy/PAC Machine Edition.
  • Must have working experience / knowledge of Wonderware HMI systems, including Wonderware InTouch and Application Server including Intouch 9.x and higher and Application Server 2012 and higher.
  • Knowledge in SQL database systems, such as Microsoft SQL.
  • Knowledge of different communication hardware, gateways/bridges in brands such as Moxa, Redlion.
  • Experience in designing and implementing communications networks, utilizing a variety of communication protocols, including but not limited to Profibus/Profinet, Modbus, Ethernet, DH+, Modbus.
  • Knowledge in flow computer systems such ABB Spirit flow computers.
  • Knowledge with UL508A, NEC (NFPA 70), API 500, API 1165
  • Able to interpret NEC code for control panels to meet NEC specifications and/or company standards during design and FAT and/or field installation.
  • Knowledge in physical media used in communications, including but not limited to copper cabling, fiber optic cabling and radio transmission.
  • Design and construction knowledge of electrical hazardous area applications (Class 1, Div. 1 and 2).
  • Ability to quickly learn additional and/or new programming languages and skills as needed, such as VFDs software, line monitoring system, power quality meters.
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical and mechanical drawings and diagrams, electrical schematics, piping and instrument drawings (P&IDs), flow charts and cause and effect diagrams.
  • Ability to perform job responsibilities with minimal guidance or supervision. Self-starter and highly motivated
  • Knowledge in project management, leading project, coordinating with other disciplines, project controls and scheduling.
  • Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to work with both company and non-company personnel to accomplish goals.
  • PC-based skills, including MS Office products (Word, Excel, Outlook, Access, Power Point and Project).
  • Proficiency in basic engineering skills and possession of well-developed analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex technical matters. Strong troubleshooting skills
  • Must maintain a high degree of attention to detail while managing multiple assignments with various deadlines and responsibility levels.
  • Travel (20% - 40%) for project commissioning and/or to site to provide local support as needed.
  • Ability to be on call 24/7 for technical support for a week on a rotation schedule, and other times as needed. Provide support in various time zones.
  • Must be aware of company and government safety, health and drug regulations and maintain a high regard for the safety of company employees and assets, and the general public.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license, and a satisfactory driving record.
  • Previous Field /Startup Engineering, Design Engineering, and/or Operations experience desired.
  • Excellent knowledge of the safety profession and ability to identify, select, and implement alternative courses of action.
  • Be able to work outside in extreme temperatures.
  • Be able to climb stairs, ladders, walk over difficult terrain and stand for long periods of time.
  • Participate in random DOT Drug and Alcohol testing program.
  • The successful candidate will be required to clear a drug screen and a complete background check, after an offer has been extended and prior to being employed.

This position has the opportunity to work a hybrid work schedule with Monday through Wednesday in the office and Thursday and Friday at home. This position also has the opportunity to work a flexible work schedule with 9-hour workdays Monday through Thursday and either half day Fridays or every other Friday off.


Apply for this job
Powered by