Job Description

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Controls System Architecture & Design

• Lead the design and development of PLC, HMI, and SCADA-based control systems for solids control and waste management equipment.
• Define control system architecture, I/O structure, network topology, and system integration strategies.
• Develop and review electrical schematics, panel layouts, I/O lists, control narratives, and cause & effect matrices.
• Perform electrical system analysis including load studies, protection coordination, and power distribution design.
• Ensure compliance with applicable standards (NEC, IEC, IEEE, ATEX, UL, CSA, etc.), including hazardous area requirements.

Software Engineering & Verification

• Lead PLC and HMI programming activities, including structured software design and documentation (SDS, FDS).
• Oversee software verification and validation activities, including simulation and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing where applicable.
• Apply best practices in structured software development and configuration control.
• Troubleshoot complex electrical, electronic, and controls-related issues and implement sustainable corrective actions.

Project Execution & Technical Leadership

• Support and lead control systems Front End Engineering Design (FEED) activities.
• Provide technical leadership during commissioning, startup, and after-sales support.
• Serve as technical authority for controls-related customer inquiries and field issues.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide discipline leadership within cross-functional project teams.
• Manage multiple concurrent projects while meeting schedule and quality expectations.

Sustaining & Continuous Improvement

• Support lifecycle management of control systems, including upgrades and performance optimization.
• Identify and implement improvements to enhance system reliability, safety, and maintainability.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies, communication protocols, and industry advancements relevant to drilling and solids handling systems.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Advanced expertise in PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems (Beckhoff experience preferred).
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (Modbus, PROFIBUS, PROFINET, CAN, WITS, Foundation Fieldbus, etc.).
• Proficiency in programming or scripting languages such as Python and C++.
• Understanding of control system software lifecycle, verification, and validation methodologies.
• Ability to interpret and develop technical documentation (P&IDs, electrical and hydraulic schematics, FDS, SDS, C&E).
• Knowledge of hydraulic power units and hydraulic control systems integration.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting capability.
• Effective communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to manage priorities in a fast-paced engineering environment.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Engineering degree in Controls, Software, Computer Science, Electrical, Mechatronics, or related discipline.
• 5–7+ years of experience in PLC and HMI/SCADA programming and detailed control system software engineering.
• 4+ years of experience in control systems Front End Engineering Design (FEED).
• 3+ years of experience leading commissioning, startup, and operational support activities.
• Experience designing and commissioning control systems for hazardous area applications (ATEX, IEC or similar).
• Working knowledge of applicable IEC and IEEE standards.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in the Oil & Gas drilling industry.
• Experience with Solids Control and Waste Management equipment and processes.
• Familiarity with drilling fluids systems, geothermal applications, thermal treatment technologies, and solids handling systems.
• Professional Engineer (PE), Fundamentals of Engineering (FE), or willingness to obtain.