Process Control Network Engineer

Tate & Lyle•Okmulgee, OK

About The Position

As the Process Controls Network Engineer you will design, maintain, support, and improve site process automation systems. This position will serve as a key technical resource to lead and support plant optimization efforts regarding capacity, cost, quality, and environmental improvements utilizing process control techniques. Key job responsibilities include design and maintenance of site automation systems along with monitoring system performance, troubleshooting cyber threats, implementing updates, and ensuring seamless data flow. Candidates for this position need a fundamental knowledge of control systems and industrial automation networks. Main Responsibilities The primary focus of this role will be system administrator for process control network (PCN) with emphasis on identifying and implementing process improvements for DCS and PLC based systems. Manage the physical processes and equipment in an industrial setting. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the fundamental functions and responsibilities of the job as defined below: Designs and develops industrial control system solutions including Distributed Control System (DCS) Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and Human Machine Interface (HMI) programs to address operational needs for new construction projects, maintenance projects or operational requests. Implementing software updates, patches, and managing network data and files. Create, manage, testing and archiving of backups and disaster recovery files for critical systems and networks. Monitor KPI's for PCN and initiate corrective actions as necessary Ensuring seamless data flow and connectivity between enterprise business systems and industrial production systems. Work with plant management, engineers, maintenance and contractors and to provide expert guidance; leadership and assistance to facility Control System Specialists (upgrade projects, troubleshooting, etc.) Communicate and maintain proper documentation related to the DCS system status, changes, and coordinate/conduct personnel training for such related items as necessary. Provide technical support for process safety efforts, such as Process Hazard Assessment (PHA) and Management of Change (MOC). Investigate new technology, along with methods to improve cybersecurity and system performance as it relates to automation. Provide automation solution estimates to project managers, facility engineers, and others. Provide support to Capital projects, including expansion, regulatory and modification projects, working as SME for Process Control Network Support control system and safety instrumented system (SIS)/ programmable logic controller (PLC) maintenance and test planning as required, software upgrades, emergency shutdown (ESD) testing, offline and online testing, and coordination of activities with/without plant shutdowns. Subject Matter Expert (SME) on control system networking and industrial instrumentation devices. Understanding of networking protocols (e.g., IPSEC, HSRP, BGP, OSPF, 802.11, QoS). Solid hands-on experience with monitoring, network diagnostic, and network analytics tools.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (Software, Electrical, Chemical) or equivalent technical discipline is required.
Three (3) - Five (5) years of process control system application for industrial sites preferred
Experience in system integration and maintenance of process control networks.
Demonstrated ability to analyze complex data, draw conclusions and then develop and execute problem solutions
Understanding of ICS architecture and environment including operational aspects such as reliability, redundancy, high availability, remote support, business continuity and disaster recovery
Demonstrated high level of integrity, thoroughness, creativity, flexibility, initiative, and productive, collaborative teamwork is a must
Excellent written and verbal communication skills; excellent interpersonal communication skills are necessary
Ability to independently direct & prioritize one’s own work.
Continuous improvement experience
Ability to plan, prioritize, and execute controls projects effectively
Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously under various deadlines
Design, configure, and maintain the functionality and efficiency of network infrastructure.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Delta V, Allen Bradley and PI systems is desirable
GIAC certifications (like GCFA, GNFA, GRID) are a plus

Responsibilities

Designs and develops industrial control system solutions including Distributed Control System (DCS) Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and Human Machine Interface (HMI) programs to address operational needs for new construction projects, maintenance projects or operational requests.
Implementing software updates, patches, and managing network data and files.
Create, manage, testing and archiving of backups and disaster recovery files for critical systems and networks.
Monitor KPI's for PCN and initiate corrective actions as necessary
Ensuring seamless data flow and connectivity between enterprise business systems and industrial production systems.
Work with plant management, engineers, maintenance and contractors and to provide expert guidance; leadership and assistance to facility Control System Specialists (upgrade projects, troubleshooting, etc.)
Communicate and maintain proper documentation related to the DCS system status, changes, and coordinate/conduct personnel training for such related items as necessary.
Provide technical support for process safety efforts, such as Process Hazard Assessment (PHA) and Management of Change (MOC).
Investigate new technology, along with methods to improve cybersecurity and system performance as it relates to automation.
Provide automation solution estimates to project managers, facility engineers, and others.
Provide support to Capital projects, including expansion, regulatory and modification projects, working as SME for Process Control Network Support control system and safety instrumented system (SIS)/ programmable logic controller (PLC) maintenance and test planning as required, software upgrades, emergency shutdown (ESD) testing, offline and online testing, and coordination of activities with/without plant shutdowns.
Subject Matter Expert (SME) on control system networking and industrial instrumentation devices.
Understanding of networking protocols (e.g., IPSEC, HSRP, BGP, OSPF, 802.11, QoS).
Solid hands-on experience with monitoring, network diagnostic, and network analytics tools.