Engineer Assc

American Electric Power•Columbus, OH

3d•$74,551 - $128,688•Onsite

About The Position

As a Control Systems Engineer, you will support Gas, Coal, and Renewable operations by maintaining and upgrading major equipment and critical systems, including Burner Management Systems (BMS), Combustion Control Systems (CCS), Turbine Control Systems (TCS), Environmental Control Systems, and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA). Your expertise in troubleshooting and optimization will ensure the reliability and efficiency of our energy infrastructure. You will be responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing entry level engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.

Requirements

Degree in mechanical, electrical, computer, or process engineering.
Hands-on experience with any of the following: Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), and SCADA systems (e.g., AB Rockwell, Emerson Ovation, ABB Symphony, GE Mark VIe, Siemens, or Vestas is a plus).
Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in complex environments.
Familiarity with network configuration, protocols (e.g., Firewalls, Ethernet, Modbus, OPC), and datalink setup is advantageous.
Solid grasp of control theory, including PID, adaptive, and model predictive control.
Ability to interpret and create technical documentation (e.g., System Descriptions, SAMA logic diagrams, P&IDs, schematics).
Experience with servers, thin clients, network equipment, and computer-based instrumentation is a plus.
Understanding of cybersecurity principles for control systems.
Data analysis skills to monitor and enhance system performance.
Proficiency in MS Access, Excel, Word, SQL, SharePoint, or Visual Basic is a plus.
Familiarity with CEMS, renewable energy systems (solar, battery, wind), or regulatory compliance is advantageous.
Strong communication skills for team collaboration.
Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET
Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering examination in preparation for future licensing as a Professional Engineer (PE) is encouraged and preferred.
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.
VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with an Non ABET accredited program

Nice To Haves

Vestas is a plus
network configuration, protocols (e.g., Firewalls, Ethernet, Modbus, OPC), and datalink setup is advantageous
servers, thin clients, network equipment, and computer-based instrumentation is a plus
Proficiency in MS Access, Excel, Word, SQL, SharePoint, or Visual Basic is a plus
Familiarity with CEMS, renewable energy systems (solar, battery, wind), or regulatory compliance is advantageous

Responsibilities

Manage the Operational Technology (OT) Network and associated devices for seamless system integration and communication.
Implement cybersecurity best practices to safeguard control systems from threats.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop safe, reliable, and compliant control strategies.
Support Continuous Emissions Monitoring (CEMS) operations, with opportunities for career growth in this area.
Assists higher-level engineers in handling well-defined portions of more complex problems and analyses.
Coordinates work activities of others as required to resolve routine engineering tasks.
Performs work activities as assigned and coached by higher-level employees.
Provides input to routine project planning documents related to scheduling and understands the use of scheduling techniques (CPM, PERT, flow charts, etc.) for budget and planning activities.
Monitors project status and recommends action accordingly.
Prepares cost estimates using established standards.
Develops understanding of the workflow for routine engineering projects.
Accomplishes work according to plans and schedules established by higher-level employees.
Actively seeks out information and understanding of engineering problems and solution techniques applicable to area of responsibility.
Applies basic techniques to perform analysis associated with the resolution of routine technical problems.
Uses initiative in looking for opportunities and presenting new ideas and new approaches.
Assists and participates in the preparation of reports and technical papers.
Assimilates information and instructions readily.
Communicates effectively, both verbally and in writing and presents ideas clearly.
Listens to and understands instructions, and requests clarification as required.
Begins networking with peers to share information and encourage cooperation.
Understands the agendas and perspectives of others.
Develops effective give-and-take relationship.
Demonstrates the ability to be a team player.
Relates to people in an open, friendly, and sincere manner.
Knows which decisions they are authorized to make.
Develops decision-making skills under guidance of higher-level employees and makes routine decisions subject to review and contributes to team decision-making.
Demonstrates an attitude and desire to listen to and satisfy both internal and external customers who use and depend upon their organizational unit's work.
Applies economic analysis techniques in problem solving.
Pursues effective ways to protect and enhance the environment while providing reliable electricity at a competitive cost.
Active participation in professional and business organizations is encouraged.
Develops an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the department.