Description
Apply control systems, electrical, and instrumentation theory—usually under the direction of engineering staff—to install, program, configure, calibrate, troubleshoot, and modify PLC/DCS/SCADA systems, instrumentation, drives, and control panels, supporting safe, reliable automation and providing data for commissioning and engineering design decisions.
- • Modify, maintain, and repair industrial control systems, PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA to ensure proper operation.
- • Replace defective control components such as sensors, actuators, relays, I/O modules, and power supplies using proper tools and procedures.
- • Set up and operate test equipment (multimeters, oscilloscopes, loop calibrators, protocol analyzers) to diagnose and verify control loops and signals.
- • Read and interpret P&IDs, control narratives, wiring diagrams, ladder logic, and schematics for assembly, troubleshooting, or upgrades.
- • Identify and resolve control system malfunctions, coordinating with OEMs, vendors, or field reps to source replacement parts or firmware.
- • Assemble and wire control panels and field junction boxes according to drawings and standards.
- • Review control designs and installations for compliance with electrical codes and industry standards (NEC, NFPA 70E, ISA).
- • Assemble, test, and maintain PLC I/O, instrumentation, and communication networks per engineering instructions and manuals.
- • Update and correct engineering documentation, including as-built drawings, I/O lists, and instrument indexes.
- • Maintain logs, change records, backups, and maintenance manuals for controls, PLC programs, and HMI/SCADA configurations.
- • Select control hardware (PLCs, VFDs, HMIs, sensors) to meet functional specifications and environmental requirements.
- • Assist in estimating material, labor, and schedule for control system installations or upgrades.
- • Train operators and maintenance staff on HMI screens, alarms, and safe operation of automated equipment.
- • Oversee and support installation, start-up, and commissioning of control equipment and automation systems.
- • Document installed equipment, loop checks, calibration results, and corrective actions taken.
- • Modify PLC/HMI logic, interlocks, and alarm settings to correct functional deviations within change-control procedures.
- • Integrate hardware and software components, including PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, VFDs, and industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profibus).
- • Procure control parts and maintain spares inventory and related documentation.
- • Participate in ongoing training to stay current with automation platforms, safety practices, and industry standards.
- • Research components, vendors, lead times, and lifecycle costs to support control system decisions.
- • Provide engineering and user support for control system installations, upgrades, patches, and enhancements.
- • Plan and conduct quality control and acceptance testing, including FAT, SAT, I/O checkout, and loop tuning.
- • Produce and update control schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams using CAD software.
- • Install, configure, and maintain PLCs, variable frequency drives, servo drives, and safety circuits.
- • Design or revise control panel and field wiring schematics for industrial equipment and building automation using CAD tools.
- • Analyze test data and trends to isolate control design or tuning issues and recommend fixes.
- • Perform preventive maintenance, calibration, and tuning of instruments, valves, transmitters, and PID loops.
- • Implement and verify safety interlocks, e-stops, and permissives; follow LOTO and electrical safety procedures.
- • Configure and troubleshoot industrial networks and protocols, including addressing, routing, and device diagnostics.
- • Monitor SCADA alarms, historian tags, and KPIs; optimize setpoints and alarm limits as directed by engineering.
- • Develop and follow maintenance standards and procedures for control systems and instrumentation.
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
