Job Title: SCADA Engineer (Power Plant)

Job Summary:

The Senior SCADA Engineer is responsible for leading the design, configuration, maintenance, and optimization of SCADA systems in power plants. This role involves managing large-scale projects, troubleshooting advanced issues, and ensuring the integration and reliability of SCADA systems with Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), and other power plant equipment. The Senior Engineer provides technical leadership, mentors junior staff, and ensures compliance with safety and industry standards.

Key Responsibilities:

System Design and Implementation:

• Lead the design, programming, and configuration of SCADA systems for real-time monitoring and control of turbines, generators, boilers, and auxiliary systems.
• Oversee the integration of SCADA with DCS, PLC, and HMI systems to ensure seamless operation.
• Validate control logic, interlocks, and system configurations for performance optimization.

System Maintenance and Optimization:

• Manage the operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of SCADA systems, ensuring minimal downtime.
• Perform advanced diagnostics and root cause analysis for complex system issues.
• Implement system upgrades, retrofits, and optimization strategies to improve performance and reliability.

Troubleshooting and Problem Resolution:

• Lead the resolution of critical SCADA-related issues, collaborating with vendors and contractors as needed.
• Develop and implement long-term solutions to recurring system faults.
• Ensure accurate data acquisition and visualization for operational decision-making.

Compliance and Safety:

• Ensure all SCADA activities comply with industry standards (e.g., IEC, ISA) and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct safety audits and risk assessments for SCADA systems and their integration with power plant operations.
• Oversee the validation and maintenance of safety-critical systems connected to SCADA.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Prepare detailed technical reports on system performance, troubleshooting activities, and project outcomes for stakeholders.
• Maintain comprehensive records of system configurations, updates, and compliance documentation.
• Develop and refine standard operating procedures (SOPs) and training materials for SCADA operations.

Leadership and Collaboration:

• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior and mid-level engineers, fostering professional development.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align SCADA activities with organizational objectives and plant performance goals.
• Act as a primary point of contact for clients, vendors, and regulatory bodies on SCADA-related matters.

Project Management:

• Lead large-scale projects, including the installation, commissioning, and optimization of SCADA systems.
• Manage project schedules, budgets, and resources, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery.
• Identify and mitigate risks during project execution to ensure successful outcomes.

Innovation and Continuous Improvement:

• Evaluate and implement emerging technologies to enhance SCADA system functionality and reliability.
• Lead initiatives to integrate predictive maintenance tools and advanced analytics for better system monitoring.
• Stay updated on industry trends and recommend innovative solutions to improve operations.

Key Focus Areas:

• SCADA Systems: Oversee and optimize SCADA platforms for efficient monitoring and control of power plant processes.
• Power Plant Processes: Lead automation tasks for turbines, generators, boilers, and auxiliary systems.
• System Integration: Ensure seamless integration of SCADA with DCS, PLCs, and HMIs.
• Safety and Emergency Systems: Validate and maintain the compliance and reliability of safety-critical SCADA systems.

Skills and Knowledge Required:

• Extensive knowledge of SCADA systems and their integration with power plant operations.
• Advanced proficiency in programming SCADA platforms, including graphical interface design and alarm configuration.
• Expertise in industrial communication protocols such as Modbus, Profibus, and Ethernet/IP.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for resolving complex SCADA issues.
• Comprehensive understanding of safety standards, risk management, and emergency protocols in power plant operations.

Educational Qualifications:

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

Experience:

• 7-10 years of experience in SCADA system design, configuration, and maintenance, with a proven track record in leading large projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in troubleshooting and resolving advanced SCADA-related issues.

Tools and Technologies:

• Expertise in diagnostic tools such as oscilloscopes, thermal cameras, and vibration analyzers.
• Proficiency in SCADA platforms like Siemens WinCC, Wonderware InTouch, Honeywell Experion, or ABB DCS.
• Familiarity with advanced analytics tools for monitoring and improving system performance.

Other Requirements:

• Exceptional leadership and communication skills to manage teams and collaborate with stakeholders.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities to oversee multiple high-priority projects.
• Commitment to maintaining safety, quality, and compliance in all SCADA operations.
• Willingness to travel for project oversight, client meetings, and regulatory compliance activities.