SCADA Automation Specialist I

Job Description Summary:

Salary: $35.67 - $53.51 per hour

The SCADA Automation Specialist I is an entry-level position responsible for supporting the programming, maintenance, and operation of the District's SCADA, PLC, and HMI systems. Under close supervision, this position assists senior staff with system configuration, field support, troubleshooting, and documentation while developing foundational skills in industrial automation and control systems.

Job Description

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to this position.

• Assist with PLC and HMI programming, configuration, and integration under the guidance of senior staff
• Support installation, testing, and maintenance of PLC/HMI hardware and associated devices
• Assist with diagnosing and resolving SCADA system performance issues
• Support modifications to PLC/HMI programs under direction of senior staff
• Assist with SCADA Historian database and related software support
• Follow established change management practices when documenting SCADA software changes
• Assist with review of technical specifications and drawings related to SCADA and electrical systems
• Provide Electrical and Instrumentation (E&I) troubleshooting support under supervision
• Assist SCADA Operations with system support tasks
• Follow the District's Enterprise and SCADA cybersecurity frameworks and procedures
• Apply cybersecurity best practices to maintain system integrity and access control
• Respond to emergency situations both remotely and on-site as required
• Support users with SCADA reporting software
• Create and manage ServiceNow tickets, tasks, and changes
• Maintain familiarity with strategic District levels of service
• Perform other duties as required

Required Experience:

• Zero to two (0–2) years of experience in automation, control systems, or a related technical field; relevant internship or co-op experience considered
• Basic knowledge of PLC and/or HMI programming concepts
• Ability to read and interpret Electrical and Process and Instrumentation Drawings
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as Modbus TCP/IP or Ethernet/IP
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work effectively under supervision and as part of a team
• Willingness to support 24/7 SCADA Operations, including emergency response when needed

Desired Experience:

• Exposure to IEC 61131-3 PLC programming languages
• Familiarity with SCADA/HMI platforms such as GE iFix or similar
• Basic knowledge of SQL or scripting languages such as Python or PowerShell
• Familiarity with ISA standards
• Proficient in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access
• Background or coursework in Instrumentation and Electrical (I&E) systems

Required Education/Certification/License:

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field; an Associate's Degree with substantial related work experience may be considered
• Valid Texas driver's license

Desired Education/Certification/License:

• Professional certifications in automation controls or related technologies (ISA, Schneider Electric, GICSP, etc.)
• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or eligibility to sit for the FE exam is a plus

Success Factors/Job Competencies:

• Eager to learn and receptive to coaching and mentorship from senior staff
• Dependable and flexible; must be able to support SCADA Operations as needed
• Demonstrates attention to detail and commitment to following established procedures
• Developing familiarity with the following software platforms:
  • GE – iFix (SCADA HMI Graphics, Database Management)
  • GE – Proficy Historian (historical SCADA data)
  • Schneider – Unity / Control Expert (PLC software)
  • Industrial Communication Protocols – Modbus TCP, OPC UA, BACnet

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Physical demands: While performing duties of job, employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hand to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; balance; stoop; talk and hear. Employees must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

  • Capable of working weekends, nights and holidays if required. May require working extra hours during SCADA/Pipeline system failures
  • Requires the ability to think and reason at a level such that response to emergency situations is appropriate and prompt
  • Ability to perform continuous analysis of pipeline systems operations, e.g., water quality issues, communication problems, measure/system integrity
  • Requires use of sight, hearing, speech, hands and feet. Requires the ability to climb ladders and stairs and to periodically use hand tools in operating equipment.

• Work environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee typically resides within an office or cubicle and will have occasional field work that will expose the employee to weather conditions prevalent at the time.

  • Ability to operate a dual-screen computer work station. Equipment used includes computers, surveying equipment, GPS units, and personal protective equipment when going out on sit
  • A basic working knowledge of specific gauges, meters and valves will be required, which can be learned on the job