We are seeking a visionary and technically strong Technical Director – Automation and Controls to lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of automation and control strategies across our oil & gas operations. This executive role provides technical leadership across all projects and facilities, ensuring integration of the latest technologies while maintaining strict adherence to safety, compliance, and operational excellence.
Define and drive automation and control systems architecture across all assets and projects.
Lead design and engineering reviews for Distributed Control Systems (DCS), PLCs, SCADA, Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS), and Building Management Systems (BMS) as applicable.
Provide technical oversight for automation-related scopes in FEED, EPC, commissioning, and brownfield upgrades.
Establish company-wide standards and best practices for automation platforms, control strategies, and integration protocols.
Direct the evaluation and deployment of emerging technologies including advanced control, IIoT, AI/ML applications, and edge computing.
Oversee cybersecurity initiatives for OT systems in compliance with ISA/IEC 62443.
Collaborate with IT, operations, maintenance, and HSE departments to ensure seamless control system integration and lifecycle support.
Support incident investigations, root cause analysis, and high-level technical troubleshooting for automation systems.
Represent the company in technical forums, vendor negotiations, and strategic planning initiatives.
Mentor technical teams, building in-house capability and succession planning for automation leadership.
Enterprise Automation Architecture & Strategy
Control System Standardization (DCS, PLC, SCADA, SIS)
Functional Safety & Cybersecurity (IEC 61511, ISA/IEC 62443)
Intelligent Operations & Advanced Process Control
Lifecycle Management of Automation Assets
Engineering Excellence & Technical Governance
OT-IT Convergence and Industrial Digitalization
Vendor & Platform Selection (e.g., Emerson, Honeywell, ABB, Siemens)
Engineering Team Leadership & Capability Development
Project Assurance & Technical Risk Management
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical, Electronics, Instrumentation, Automation, or Control Systems Engineering
Minimum 18+ years of experience in automation/control systems in oil & gas or process industries
Strong expertise in DCS/PLC/SCADA/SIS architecture, configuration, and implementation
Hands-on experience with system commissioning, upgrades, and integration
Certifications in Functional Safety (e.g., TÜV FS Engineer), Industrial Cybersecurity, or Project Management (PMP) preferred
Proven leadership managing technical teams and multi-million-dollar automation portfolios
Strong communication, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning abilities