SCADA Control Systems Engineer

Portland General Electric

The Role

Overview

Design, program, test, and commission SCADA/automation systems for utility substations.

Key Responsibilities

  • scada integration
  • hmi development
  • automation logic
  • system testing
  • equipment configuration
  • field commissioning

Tasks

-Provide cost effective integration solutions for integrating devices using multiple standards and technologies. -Specification and Configuration of a variety of vendor equipment including, but not limited to: -Evaluate and resolve technically complex problems, broad problems with numerous variables of uncertain relationship and magnitude. -Keep up with rapidly changing networking, programming and software technology. -Provide engineering support for real-time operational data to System Control Center. -Support a documentation system for SCADA and Automation hardware and software programs -Design, maintain and troubleshoot Control Center SCADA Equipment used for interchange telemetering, UG Network Monitoring, Recloser/Distribution SCADA and Distribution Automation and mobile/temp switchgear monitoring. -Assist technicians in troubleshooting complex SCADA, Communications, and control and logic systems in the field. -Develop SCADA points list for RTU's to be interfaced with System Control Center SCADA/EMS system -Develop HMI displays for substations and DA systems -Provide field testing and commissioning support for technicians. -Develop integration and automation architecture for substation and distribution projects -Provide consultation and technical expertise to various PGE departments. -Analyze causes and recommend solutions to complex but routine operational maintenance problems. -Routine substation visits for equipment and technician support. -Drive end to end testing for EMS/SCADA systems. -Support engineering reviews of new substation SCADA, Integration and Automation system designs and equipment. -Evaluate technical programming requirements for automation projects. -Work on complex programming problems for substation SCADA and automation equipment. -Development of Automation logic utilizing IEC 61131-3 and Ladder Logic programming languages -Provide technical support to NERC-CIP compliance activities and act as SME for SCADA and Substation Automation equipment. -Deal effectively with pressure of real-time problem solving. -Keep up with rapidly changing integration and automation technology -Communicate with other utilities' personnel to share information and provide technical expertise. -Solve integration and automation challenges at various substations where multiple equipment and integration standards are used. -Investigate system construction, maintenance, and operational problems and recommend corrective action.

Requirements

  • engineering degree
  • plc
  • scada
  • ladder logic
  • python
  • driver's license

What You Bring

-Demonstrates sound memory -Lifting/pushing/pulling (check appropriate weight): Up to 10 lb. -Ability to process new information to be applied consistently to work tasks -Communicate verbally and in writing with engineers and company management to present and justify automation systems. -Bachelor’s degree in engineering. ABET-accredited engineering program or program accredited by an equivalent agency preferred. -Ability to avoid future mistakes by applying reasonable skills to new but similar work situations or tasks -Ability to successfully collaborate with peers, managers and others within the organization -Ability to develop logic using ladder logic programming and IEC61131-3 standards. -Ability to work long hours -Ability to follow through on decision-making tasks -Network equipment including Ethernet switches, routers, terminal servers etc. -Electronic Relays used for power system protection -Excellent knowledge of SCADA protocols DNP 3.0, Modbus (Serial and TCP/IP), Modbus Plus, L&G 8979, OPC and ICCP. -Ability to discern feedback and acknowledge ownership of areas of improvement -Ability to consistently meet attendance standards for regular, reliable, predictable, full-time attendance -Senior Level, P3: Typically, five or more years in related field. -Ability to work a variable schedule -Intermediate Level, P2: Typically, two or more years in related field. -Ability to troubleshoot SCADA protocol and SCADA network related issues. -Transducers and Meters -Modems, media converters, radios and other communication devices. -Human Machine Interface programs and Hardware. -Ability to report to work and perform work during periods of severe inclement weather -Does the job require a valid driver's license? - Yes -Ability to follow accuracy standards -Ability to interact effectively and collaboratively within a team environment -A basic understanding of electric utility substation protection and control systems -Working knowledge of communication and networking standards such as TIA/EIA RS-232 & RS-485, Fiber Optic and Ethernet. -Ability to validate data collected by the integration systems. -Ability to respond and adapt to frequent change -Familiarity with substation equipment and operating mechanisms -Working knowledge of TCP/IP networks, subnets and routing and network services and management tools such as SNTP, NTP, PPTP and SNMP. -Ability to adhere to set response times, deadlines and time-sensitive tasks -Ability to adhere to pre-established schedule, including start/stop time and break/lunch schedule [typically for nonexempt positions, although some exempt positions may have an established start/stop time] -Working knowledge of various devices used for industrial control systems (PLC, Transducers, I/O devices) -Ability to communicate and problem solve when under stress -Ability to accept and demonstrate self-awareness when provided constructive feedback -Working knowledge of various major equipment monitoring devices and associated communication and configuration programs and functionality. -Computer use (use computer regularly for entire work shift) -Ability to read substation schematic and wiring diagrams -Experience in industrial automation, utility automation and/or SCADA experience. -Basic understanding of scripting languages (Java, VB, Python etc.) -Programmable Logic Controllers -Carrying (check appropriate weight): Up to 10 lb. -Thorough knowledge of Network design (TCI/IP and Modbus Plus) and OSI Layers. -Valid Driver's license required. -Ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex logic programming issues, substation network issues, device malfunction etc. -Walking distances and surfaces (long distances and over rough, uneven or rocky surfaces)

Benefits

-Elevated areas (i.e., catwalks, roofs and high buildings) -Remote Terminal Units (RTU's) -Stairs (over 10 steps)

The Company

About Portland General Electric

-the company began transmitting long‑distance power from Willamette Falls in 1889, a pioneering effort in the region -It operates a diversified fleet—hydro, natural gas, coal, wind and solar—alongside a sizable transmission and distribution network across Oregon -Serving nearly a million retail customers in over 50 cities, it blends generation, wholesale trading, and regulated retail operations -Typical projects include hydroelectric dams like T.W. Sullivan (still active from 1889), wind‑solar‑battery hybrids (e.g., Wheatridge), and transmission line expansions -Unusual facts: it closed Oregon’s last in‑state coal plant early and built one of the first long‑distance AC transmission systems in the U.S.

Sector Specialisms

Energy

Commercial

Industrial

Renewable Energy

Carbon Free Energy

Electricity Generation

Electricity Transmission

Electricity Distribution

Hydropower

Wind

Solar

Battery Storage

Thermal

Infrastructure

Maintenance Services

Construction Materials and Services

Professional and Consulting Services

Information Technology

High-voltage Electrical Systems

Emergency Electrical Repair

Outage Restoration

Business Distribution Services