Distributed Control System Migration Specialist

HF Sinclair•Tulsa, OK

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

HF Sinclair is seeking a Distributed Control System Migration Specialist in multiple locations across the US. This role supports fleet-wide Operational Technology (OT) modernization, focusing on designing, implementing, and supporting DCS migration projects. The Specialist will report to the Control Systems Automation Lead and collaborate with various teams to execute these migrations. The position is crucial for modernizing legacy systems, enhancing reliability, ensuring cybersecurity, and standardizing automation strategies, ultimately supporting operational excellence and digital transformation.

Requirements

Minimum 5+ years of experience supporting industrial automation and control systems.
Experience with DCS platforms, Honeywell, Siemens, Foxboro, etc. Experion PKS and associated applications a plus.
Demonstrated experience in leading and supporting DCS migration and modernization projects.
Experience in system integration, project oversight, and multi-discipline collaboration.
Experience in working on multiple communications protocols i.e. Modbus, Fieldbus, EtherNet/IP, etc.
Strong troubleshooting, analytical and problem-solving capabilities with the ability to identify and resolve complex technical issues.
Proven ability to work independently as an individual contributor while effectively collaborating with cross-functional technical teams, site production personnel, third-party engineering firms and vendors.
Ability and willingness to support multiple sites across the fleet, including up to 40% travel by air and ground transportation.
Strong foundation in process control principles including flow, level and temperature measurement and control strategies.
Ability to operate and drive all assigned company vehicles at company standard insurance rates is essential; valid State drivers license and proof of insurance.
Ability to wear personal protective equipment (beards not permitted).

Nice To Haves

Experion PKS and associated applications a plus.

Responsibilities

Lead DCS migration projects through all phases of execution, including planning, design, implementation, commissioning, and startup.
Conduct and oversee comprehensive system assessments and develop migration scopes, project schedules, resource plans, and risk mitigation strategies.
Review and assess integrator deliverables, timelines and execution quality.
Collaborate with DCS engineering firms and contractors to review, approve, and oversee construction, implementation, and migration packages.
Manage and execute DCS hardware and software migration activities to ensure successful project delivery with minimal operational disruption.
Provide technical leadership during project planning, design reviews, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), and system commissioning activities.
Support startup, cutover, commissioning, and post-migration stabilization efforts to ensure reliable system performance.
Coordinate with multiple automation solution providers and vendors to manage application, hardware, and network migration activities.
Ensure all migration projects comply with DCS vendor best practices, cybersecurity requirements, and HF Sinclair Engineering and Control Systems standards.
Maintain and administer approved DCS development, simulation, and test environments to support validation and migration activities.
Partner with site personnel and DCS manufacturer subject matter experts (SMEs) to evaluate, test, and validate software releases, patches, firmware updates, and migration methodologies prior to deployment.
Lead the integration and migration of interconnected control systems, including PLCs, Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS), Tank Gauging Systems (TGS), and other plant subsystems interfacing with the DCS.
Develop, validate, and execute migration procedures, software updates, system configurations, and rollback plans to ensure safe and reliable deployment.
Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues encountered during migration, commissioning, and operational support activities.
Provide technical guidance and mentorship to site personnel and project teams throughout migration and modernization initiatives.