Job Title: Power Plant Automation Engineer

Job Summary:

The Mid-Level Power Plant Automation Engineer is responsible for managing the operation, maintenance, and optimization of automation systems in power generation facilities. This role involves configuring and troubleshooting SCADA, Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), and Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI). The engineer works independently on projects, supports system upgrades, and ensures compliance with industry standards and safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

System Configuration and Maintenance:

• Configure and maintain automation systems, including SCADA, DCS, PLCs, and HMI interfaces.
• Perform diagnostics and calibration of automation systems to ensure optimal performance.
• Oversee the integration of automation systems with turbines, generators, boilers, and auxiliary equipment.

Testing and Troubleshooting:

• Conduct functionality tests and system diagnostics to identify and resolve automation issues.
• Analyze and resolve moderately complex problems in control systems, escalating critical issues to senior engineers.
• Monitor and adjust system parameters to improve efficiency, reliability, and compliance.

Compliance and Safety:

• Ensure all automation-related activities adhere to safety standards and organizational protocols.
• Participate in risk assessments and safety audits for automation systems.
• Validate and maintain emergency shutdown systems to ensure operational safety.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain detailed records of system configurations, calibration settings, and troubleshooting activities.
• Prepare technical reports on system performance and provide recommendations for improvements.
• Develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) for automation systems.

Collaboration and Leadership:

• Work closely with operations, maintenance, and safety teams to align automation activities with plant objectives.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians, supporting their technical growth.
• Participate in cross-functional team discussions to address challenges and propose system improvements.

Project Management:

• Manage small to medium-sized projects, including automation system upgrades and commissioning.
• Develop project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation plans to ensure timely delivery.
• Identify potential risks and implement strategies to mitigate project delays and challenges.

Key Focus Areas:

• Automation Systems: Manage SCADA, DCS, PLC, and HMI systems for efficient power plant operations.
• Power Plant Processes: Oversee automation tasks related to turbines, generators, boilers, and auxiliary systems.
• Safety and Emergency Systems: Validate and troubleshoot safety-critical automation components.
• System Optimization: Contribute to enhancing automation system performance and reliability.

Skills and Knowledge Required:

• Proficient knowledge of automation systems, including SCADA, DCS, PLCs, and HMIs.
• Experience with programming languages such as Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagram (FBD), and Structured Text.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols like Modbus, Profibus, and Ethernet/IP.
• Strong diagnostic and problem-solving skills for identifying and resolving system issues.
• Knowledge of safety standards and best practices for automation in power generation environments.

Educational Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Certifications in SCADA, DCS, or PLC systems (e.g., Siemens, ABB, Rockwell) are highly desirable.

Experience:

• 3-5 years of experience in configuring, troubleshooting, and maintaining automation systems in power generation or industrial environments.
• Proven ability to manage system maintenance tasks and contribute to project execution.

Tools and Technologies:

• Proficiency with tools such as multimeters, signal generators, and loop calibrators.
• Familiarity with software platforms like Siemens TIA Portal, Honeywell Experion, ABB DCS, or Rockwell Studio 5000.
• Experience with data analytics tools for monitoring and optimizing system performance.

Other Requirements:

• Strong communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with diverse teams.
• Ability to manage tasks independently and prioritize work to meet deadlines.
• Commitment to maintaining safety, quality, and compliance in all automation-related activities.
• Willingness to travel for on-site inspections, project execution, and client interactions.