Automation Technician/PLC Programmer (Midland or Odessa, TX)

ONEOK • Midland, TX

21d • $93,000 - $139,000 • Onsite

About The Position

ONEOK is seeking an Automation Technician/PLC Programmer to help optimize plant and pipeline efficiency through the maintenance, development, and modification of process control systems. The role works with asset stakeholders, including managers, process supervisors, engineering, instrumentation technicians, and control room operations. Systems include Basic Process Control Systems (BPCS), Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS), Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) systems, and Advanced Process Controls (APC).

The position is a primary point of contact for DCS/PLC issues and supports system maintenance, troubleshooting, lifecycle planning, projects, control improvements, and operational requests. It may include Department of Transportation (DOT)-covered pipeline functions, including operations, maintenance, or emergency response. The employee must remain alert and respond immediately to hazardous conditions. Some travel is required. Work takes place indoors in well-lit, climate-controlled areas, with frequent repetitive motion and constant use of computer monitors. The role is based in Midland or Odessa, Texas.

Requirements

• Three to five years of related work experience in industrial programming, or strong electrical and instrumentation skills with a developed programming skill.
• Experience modifying, maintaining, and installing process control computer system applications, including BPCS, SIS, DCS/PLC, and HMI software and hardware.
• Experience with Allen Bradley, Modicon, Delta V, Clear SCADA, or Honeywell systems; documented training courses are specified.
• Training and experience in process control system operations and file structures; designing, coding, and networking process control programs; HMIs; and database management.
• Experience reading and interpreting repair orders, mechanical drawings, P&IDs, procedures, charts, diagrams, dials, gauges, and equipment manuals.
• Experience and training related to gas processing fundamentals; computers and related software; governmental rules, regulations, and electrical codes; safe handling of flammable gases, liquids, and high-pressure systems; and design and safeguarding of safety systems.
• Experience reading and interpreting engineering drawings, computer printouts, system requirements and programs, contracts, manuals, policies, and procedures.
• Experience preparing file, record, and screen layouts, reports, project proposals, training outlines, manuals, procedures, and correspondence.
• Experience developing presentations.
• Knowledge of office and computer equipment applicable to the position.
• Proficiency with loop tuning and advanced control optimization strategies.
• Ability to apply math, algebra, and statistical formulas.
• Ability to communicate and exchange information or instructions and conduct oral presentations or meetings.
• Interpersonal, presentation, verbal, and written communication skills, with the ability to interact with and advise internal and external business partners at all levels.
• Must be alert and able to respond immediately to hazardous conditions in duties where impaired performance or failure to follow safety precautions could result in serious injury or property damage.

Nice To Haves

• Completion of a technical degree or certification program in process and instrumentation controls, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• A certification program in Process and Instrumentation Controls.
• Five years of PLC and DCS system maintenance experience, including troubleshooting and maintaining online process control systems.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and troubleshoot BPCS, SIS, DCS, and PLC platforms, including hardware diagnostics, fault response, software repairs and upgrades, and routine preventive maintenance.
• Respond to after-hours calls regarding DCS/PLC issues and emergencies, serving as the main point of contact for these systems.
• Maintain and archive programs, and document and follow appropriate backup systems and procedures.
• Develop best-practice procedures and documentation for DCS/PLC systems to support standardized site-wide work processes.
• Develop and review control narratives to ensure systems meet operational, safety, and compliance expectations.
• Maintain existing DCS/PLC systems over their lifecycle, monitor system health, and assist the I/E Engineer with lifecycle assessments and project planning.
• Assist with project lead duties and serve as a liaison for DCS/PLC project needs, including logic or I/O additions, control schemes, and migration plans.
• Install, program, and troubleshoot switches and routers.
• Program DCS/PLC logic additions for projects, excluding vendor skid programming typically performed by the vendor.
• Coordinate with third-party integrators and system vendors to implement system work.
• Respond to operations requests for help with control issues, graphics modifications, and control improvement recommendations.
• Assist in developing programming standards and best practices.
• Work with operators, process engineers, and maintenance technicians to support efficient facility operations.
• Perform DOT-covered pipeline operations, maintenance, or emergency response functions as assigned, and respond immediately to dangerous or hazardous conditions.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits.
• A 6% 401(k) match plus four additional company contributions through profit sharing.
• $100,000 in life insurance.
• Annual bonuses for all employees.
• A minimum of three weeks of paid time off, recognizing industry experience.
• Competitive total rewards package.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed