Job Title: Water Systems Automation Engineer
Job Summary:
The Junior Water Systems Automation Engineer will assist in the design, implementation, operation, and maintenance of automation systems used in water treatment plants and distribution networks. This role focuses on supporting the integration of SCADA, PLCs, sensors, and other control systems to optimize water purification processes, ensure compliance with water quality standards, and maintain system efficiency. The Junior Engineer will collaborate with senior engineers to monitor and troubleshoot automation systems, ensuring they operate at optimal levels and meet regulatory requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
Automation System Configuration and Setup:
- Assist in the installation, configuration, and commissioning of automation systems such as SCADA, PLCs, and instrumentation used in water treatment plants and distribution systems.
- Help configure control logic and parameters for water treatment systems, including monitoring key parameters such as flow rates, pressure, chemical dosing, and water quality metrics.
- Support the integration of automation systems with other control systems and instrumentation to streamline processes and improve operational efficiency.
System Monitoring and Data Collection:
- Monitor the performance of automation systems in real-time, ensuring that water quality parameters such as pH, chlorine levels, turbidity, and flow rates are within the required limits.
- Assist in data collection and analysis for reporting purposes, ensuring the data is accurate, timely, and compliant with regulatory standards.
- Support the generation of reports on water quality, system performance, and regulatory compliance for internal use and external authorities.
Troubleshooting and Support:
- Assist in troubleshooting automation system issues, including SCADA, PLCs, and other related equipment.
- Work under the supervision of senior engineers to diagnose and resolve minor system faults or errors related to sensors, control valves, and pumps.
- Provide support during routine maintenance, including calibrating sensors and checking equipment functionality to ensure proper operation.
System Upgrades and Maintenance Support:
- Help in maintaining and upgrading process control systems to improve operational efficiency, including performing software updates, hardware replacements, and system tests.
- Assist with preventive maintenance tasks, such as checking system configurations, verifying communication links, and ensuring that systems are performing as expected.
- Collaborate with maintenance teams to resolve technical issues that arise during system operation.
Compliance and Reporting:
- Support efforts to ensure that automation systems comply with environmental regulations and water quality standards set by local, state, and federal authorities.
- Assist in preparing documentation and reports required for regulatory compliance, such as data logs, system operation reports, and maintenance records.
- Ensure that data related to water quality and system performance is stored and tracked in compliance with industry standards and regulatory guidelines.
Learning and Development:
- Continuously learn and develop technical skills in SCADA, PLC programming, water treatment automation, and process control systems.
- Participate in training sessions, workshops, and on-the-job learning to enhance knowledge of water treatment processes, automation technologies, and control systems.
- Stay updated on the latest industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes related to water systems automation and water quality.
Collaboration and Team Support:
- Work closely with senior engineers, operators, and maintenance staff to ensure seamless integration and operation of automation systems in water treatment facilities.
- Assist in troubleshooting, system optimization, and training operators on the use of automation systems.
- Contribute to team meetings, sharing insights, ideas, and feedback to improve water systems automation.
Key Focus Areas:
- Automation Systems Support: Assist in configuring, optimizing, and troubleshooting SCADA, PLC, and instrumentation systems used in water treatment.
- Water Quality Monitoring and Compliance: Ensure that automation systems maintain optimal water quality and meet regulatory standards.
- System Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Help maintain and troubleshoot control systems, including SCADA and PLC systems.
- Learning and Development: Gain hands-on experience with automation systems and water treatment technologies while developing technical expertise.
Skills and Knowledge Required:
- Basic understanding of SCADA systems, PLCs, sensors, and instrumentation used in water treatment processes.
- Familiarity with water quality parameters such as pH, chlorine, turbidity, and their importance in water treatment.
- Ability to work with industrial control systems and data acquisition technologies.
- Strong attention to detail, ensuring the accuracy of data and operational performance.
- Good problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues in process control systems.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with engineers, operators, and other stakeholders.
Educational Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field.
- Basic coursework or certifications in PLC programming, SCADA systems, or water treatment processes is an advantage.
Experience:
- 1-2 years of experience in process control, automation, or water treatment systems. Internships, academic projects, or hands-on training in water treatment automation is beneficial.
- Exposure to SCADA systems, PLC programming, or industrial control systems through coursework or practical projects is an advantage.
Tools and Technologies:
- Familiarity with SCADA software platforms (e.g., Siemens WinCC, Wonderware, Ignition) is beneficial.
- Understanding of PLC programming languages (e.g., Ladder Logic, Structured Text).
- Basic knowledge of data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, SQL) for process monitoring and reporting.
Other Requirements:
- Strong interest in water treatment automation and process control.
- Willingness to learn and develop technical skills in the water treatment and automation industry.
- Ability to work under supervision and within a team-oriented environment.
- Proactive and willing to take initiative in troubleshooting and system optimization.