PLC/HMI Field Applications Specialist - Bakersfield

All FASs perform high-level systems troubleshooting and repair, installation and modification of integrated systems, and provide internal and external technical support. This often includes basic PLC and HMI program modification, up/downloading, and function validation with remote support from Applications Engineers as needed.

Field Applications Specialists are primarily responsible for the implementation of Instrumentation & Control Systems projects. This work may include system design, build, installation, startup, and follow-up service.

Join a team that keeps critical water/wastewater systems running. As a PLC/HMI Field Applications Specialist, you’ll commission, start up, and support SCADA, PLC, and instrumentation in the field—owning FAT/SAT, troubleshooting, and operator training from day one.

FAS Technicians work on all aspects of I&C projects including instrument installation, calibrating, and commissioning; panel terminations, as-built markups, and testing; network terminations and testing; and instrumentation and panel training.

• FAS Engineers set up the project system servers, workstations, operating system, networks, and peripheral equipment at the job site. They may produce the System Control Narrative, develop the HMI application per contract documents and customer needs, and program PLCs according to the Control Narrative.
• Generates and gathers all required final project documentation. Marks up control panel drawings with modifications to reflect actual field equipment interfaces.
• Produces timely, accurate project documentation such as timesheets, trip reports, etc.
• Demonstrates overall system functionality to the Owner/Engineer/Contractor including hardware and network operation, SCADA monitoring and control, displaying data, alarming, and historical data collection for report generation. Provides technical assistance and training to operators, supervisors, and administrative personnel.
• Keeps PMs informed of the status of tasks and projects milestones. Maintains awareness of project budgets and keeps the PM aware of issues that would adversely affect the budget.
• Receives project requirements and direction through meetings with the Project Manager and review of the contract documents.
• Follows established Best Practices and Development Standards and Procedures.
• Commissions control panels on the jobsite, which includes field signal wiring, panel wire terminations, input/output signal checkout, and field equipment interfacing.
• Provides on-call service for customers as directed by the Service Manager. Performs instrument installation and calibration services including physical installation/connection, wire terminations, commissioning, calibration, and documentation.
• Works closely with other Project Team members
• Participates in Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), when required.
• Receives direction from the applicable Regional Manager or Project Manager
• Conducts system startups inclusive of PLC, HMI, instrumentation, and networking equipment/applications.

FAS Engineers may use HMI expertise to set up the Customer computer system hardware and network, configure the SCADA application software, perform startup and testing, and provide training. FAS Engineers may use PLC expertise to develop PLC application monitoring and control software, perform startup and testing, and provide training.

Substantial daily travel is required on a regular basis to start-up, test, and demonstrate control systems and perform service calls.

Ability to communicate orally with management and other co-workers is crucial. Regular use of the telephone and e-mail for communication is essential. Sitting for extended periods in front of a computer monitor is common. Hearing within normal ranges is necessary for communication with the Project Team and customers. Adequate vision is needed for using a computer monitor. Lifting of computer servers, workstations, and peripherals is expected. Good manual dexterity for setting up computer equipment and attaching associated cables.

Moving and carrying instruments and equipment is expected, as is some panel lifting. Good manual dexterity is needed for working with instruments and equipment, as well as the use of common office equipment such as computer terminals, and copiers.

The job is performed at various locations and environments; which may include office, panel shop, customer jobsites (indoors and outdoors), and in varying weather conditions. Activities include extended periods of sitting or standing. The construction environment typically requires climbing stairs, standing, bending, lifting, and working on ladders. This job includes the potential of working irregular hours with on-call availability to troubleshoot project startup and warranty problems.

Kneeling and sitting within panels for extended periods is common. Hearing and vision within normal ranges is essential for conversations with customers, and vision is necessary for reading panel and contract drawings. Regular use of the telephone and e-mail for communication is essential.

A technical degree in an engineering related field; and/or 3 years field service experience in instrumentation and control systems, preferably in the Water/Wastewater Industry. An understanding and working knowledge of control systems and process instruments is desired. Basic electrical and networking knowledge is required. Comprehension of contract Electrical & P&ID drawings is essential. Excellent communication skills to communicate with customers, management, and co-workers is crucial. Must be a positive, contributing member of a project team and have the ability to mentor and train others.