Microgrid Automation Engineer

Solaris Energy Infrastructure•Houston, TX

About The Position

The Microgrid Automation Engineer is responsible for the design, configuration, integration, and commissioning of automation and control systems for utility-scale and industrial microgrid power plants. This role serves as the technical interface with engineering contractors, system integrators, OEMs, and operations teams across the full project lifecycle from design review and EPC execution through field commissioning and ongoing operational support. This is a hands-on technical role with a strong focus on Ignition SCADA (Inductive Automation) and Distributed Control Systems (DCS), supporting reliable, high-availability operation of power systems including mission-critical loads.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field.
3–8 years of experience in automation, instrumentation, or control systems engineering in the power or energy sector.
Demonstrated experience with Ignition SCADA platform (Inductive Automation).
Experience with industrial DCS and/or PLC platforms.
Proficiency in Ignition SCADA: Perspective/Vision modules, tag configuration, alarm management, and Python scripting.
Working knowledge of industrial communication protocols: OPC-UA, MQTT, Modbus TCP/RTU, DNP3, GOOSE, Profinet and Ethernet/IP.
Familiarity with DCS/PLC configuration, function block programming, SFC, and ladder logic.
Understanding of I&C fundamentals: loop diagrams, P&IDs, instrument datasheets, and cause-and-effect matrices.
Experience with network architecture for industrial control systems (SCADA network segmentation, firewall concepts, cybersecurity basics).
Familiarity with applicable industry standards including IEC 61511, IEEE standards, ISA-18.2, and NFPA.
Familiarity with software revision control tools such as GitHub, SVN.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot complex control system issues.
Effective written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and contractor engagement.
Ability to work independently and manage multiple deliverables in a fast-paced project environment.
Collaborative team player with the ability to work cross-functionally with electrical, mechanical, and operations teams.
Willingness to travel to project sites for commissioning and field support activities.
Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to safety, quality, and engineering best practices.
Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without requiring sponsorship for employment visa status

Nice To Haves

Exposure to power plant environments such as gas turbine generators and BESS systems is an advantage.

Responsibilities

Assist in the development and maintenance of SCADA applications and HMI interfaces using the Ignition platform (Inductive Automation).
Configure and maintain data points, alarms, trends, and dashboards within Ignition SCADA systems including Perspective and Vision modules.
Develop scripts and automation tools using Python (Ignition scripting) or Java to support custom logic, event-driven actions, and reporting.
Create and optimize SQL queries for SCADA data storage, historian retrieval, and operational reporting.
Support the integration of PLCs, RTUs, meters, and other field devices into the Ignition SCADA platform via OPC-UA, Modbus TCP/RTU, MQTT, DNP3, and Ethernet/IP.
Participate in system testing, commissioning, and troubleshooting of SCADA and HMI systems on-site and remotely with third-party system integrators.
Monitor system performance and help resolve operational issues related to SCADA communications, data quality, and HMI functionality.
Assist with system documentation, configuration management, and version control for all SCADA application changes.
Collaborate with engineering, IT, and operations teams to support SCADA system deployments and continuous improvement initiatives.
Support configuration, testing, and commissioning of DCS platforms for microgrid power plants.
Assist in developing and reviewing control narratives, functional descriptions, and cause-and-effect matrices.
Implement and verify protective interlocks, sequencing logic, and alarm rationalization in the DCS.
Participate in Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) for DCS and automation systems.
Maintain and update DCS configuration documentation as per engineering change management processes.
Interface with EPC contractors, system integrators, and OEM suppliers on automation and control system deliverables.
Review and comment on contractor-produced technical documents, including: SCADA network architecture and communication diagrams I/O lists, instrument datasheets, and loop diagrams Control narratives and functional design specifications FAT and commissioning test procedures
Track and monitor contractor deliverable schedules and flag risks that may impact project milestones.
Support the senior engineering team in enforcing owner-side technical standards and requirements.
Coordinate interface definitions between OEM package controllers, plant DCS, PMS, and Ignition SCADA.
Support the operations team with automation system troubleshooting, configuration changes, and optimization.
Assist in development of operator training materials related to SCADA and control system interfaces.
Respond to operational issues that require control system investigation or configuration modification.
Participate in post-commissioning performance reviews and document lessons learned.