Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer

Location: TX-HOUSTON

Functional Area: Engineering

Position Type: Full Time

Experience Required: 5 - 7 Years

Education Required: Bachelors Degree

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 including programs, control narrative, cause and effect matrices, data maps.
• Design, develop, test, and maintain PC based HMI systems.
• Design and implement automation system networks, including specifying communications protocols, communications media (copper, fiber), protocol converters and associated hardware such as media converters.
• Clear understanding of leak detection theory and automation systems, including but not limited to interaction of the leak detection software with PLCs and SCADA software.
• Clear understanding of Flow Computer based automation systems.
• 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.

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.

Must have working experience / knowledge of Wonderware HMI systems, including Wonderware InTouch and Application Server.

Knowledge in Aveva Leak Detection System.

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.

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 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.

Position may be filled at various levels depending on experience and job skills of the successful candidate.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed. This position may perform other duties as assigned. Job level will be determined based on experience and skillset.

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.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER STATEMENT

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.