JOB SUMMARY

The Senior Control Systems Technician is responsible for the installation, maintenance, programming, commissioning, and troubleshooting of process control systems. Under limited supervision, the Senior Control Systems Technician is responsible for efficiently prioritizing, planning, and completing the workload as assigned. The technician works as part of the instrument and controls team to meet SAWS’ mission statement. The incumbent attends required safety training and follows all safety standards.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Performs complex maintenance, troubleshooting, calibration, programming, and system administration of Process Control Systems (SCADA and DCS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), control and instrument loops, field instrumentation, chemical analysis systems, variable frequency drives, communication network systems, hazardous chemical distribution and detection systems, and HMI computer workstations.
• Performs installation and implementation of process instrumentation, Programmable Logic Controllers ((PLC's), PLC-based control and instrument loops, communication network systems (Serial/IP/Radio), hazardous chemical distribution/detection systems, and chemical analyzer equipment.
• Ensures proper software application and systems programming necessary for maintaining and troubleshooting PLC’s, HMI, Radio, and other field equipment.
• Creates, maintains, and updates critical information using various applications and programs. Reviews, and prepares reports from databases with information regarding assigned work orders, equipment calibration, repair, and inventory.
• Coordinates and facilitates monthly group meetings.
• Participates in design review and construction process. Reviews prints for conformity to SAWS and accepted industry standards in process control systems and instrumentation principles, practices, procedures, and terminology. Evaluates and specifies instrumentation.
• Provides technical guidance and training to control system technicians for special projects and PCS control systems.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

DECISION MAKING

• The Senior Control Systems Technician works under limited supervision and is expected to take individual initiative in planning and performing work.
• Coordinates technicians of different trades in order to carry out repair and installation of complex control systems and instrumentation.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Associate degree in Instrumentation, Electronics, Industrial Fields or a related field or 60 college hours from an institution accredited by a nationally recognized accredited agency, or a State of Texas Journeyman Electrician License.
• Three years’ experience in the maintenance, troubleshooting, calibration, repair, and installation of control and instrument loops, field instrumentation, or hazardous chemical distribution/detection systems, including two years’ experience in PLC hardware and software, SCADA/DCS fundamentals.
• Valid Class “C” Texas Driver’s License.
• Ability to report to work on time, maintain a good attendance record, and work all designated work schedules.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Instrument Society of America Certification.
• Cisco certification or approved network certification.
• Experience in potable and non-potable water industries.
• Certification that relates to the essential job functions.
• Work order and maintenance management systems experience.
• Proficient skills in programming of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Human-Machine Interface (HMI) computer workstations.

JOB DIMENSIONS

• Thorough knowledge in communications systems protocols, including hardware and software for wired and wireless network systems.
• Skill in using desktop business applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Visio, and Access.
• Ability to work effectively in both a team and an individual self-directed environment, including coordination with end users, internal and external customers, consultants and vendors.
• Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work hours other than regular schedule such as days, nights, weekends, holidays, on-call and rotating shifts.
• Ability to operate a company vehicle on a daily basis.
• Ability to proficiently utilize laptop computers, oscilloscopes, multi-meters, signal generators, communication service monitors and other calibration equipment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

Physical requirements include, visual acuity, color vision, standing, sitting, walking, climbing, bending, crawling, squatting, kneeling and working in cramped and strained positions for long periods of time, and the ability to lift up to 75 pounds.

Working conditions are primarily outside with frequent exposure to inclement weather; wastewater; mechanical, electrical, chemical and confined space hazards; offensive fumes; excessive noise; heavy traffic; deep excavations; animals, snakes and poisonous insects. May be required to comply with requirements as specified in applicable regulations for personal protective equipment, including clearance for use of respiratory protection and other associated equipment.