Controls Engineer / Senior Systems Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Systems Engineer / Controls Engineer to support the design, implementation, and maintenance of advanced control systems, including automation and specialized Leak Detection Systems (LDS). This critical role ensures the reliability, security, and performance of our control infrastructure, with a strong emphasis on Siemens PLC and SCADA technologies within the Oil & Gas industry.

This position requires travel up to 50% of the time

Key Duties and Functional Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be responsible for the full lifecycle management of control systems, from development through field support.

• System Management & Upgrades: Manage the development, configuration, maintenance, and upgrades of HCNA control systems, including automation and Leak Detection Systems (LDS).
• PLC Programming: Develop and troubleshoot robust applications using SIMATIC Step 7 (TIA Portal), leveraging expertise in Ladder Logic and Structured Text, with integration to SQL Server.
• SCADA Programming: Design, implement, and maintain high-performance SCADA/HMI solutions using WinCC (versions 6.0–7.5 and TIA Portal).
• Functionality Enhancement: Develop new functionalities to enhance automation and LDS software based on customer and internal requirements.
• Testing & Validation: Test new PLC hardware/software for compatibility with existing systems and execute PLDS site testing per approved procedures and checklists.
• Technical Support: Provide high-level technical assistance, troubleshooting, maintenance, and upgrades for complex control system issues.
• Field Support: Support essential field activities including commissioning, startup, customer training, acceptance testing, and detailed O&M manual development.
• Configuration Management: Document, track, and control changes to software code and related artifacts to ensure system reliability and traceability.

Required Qualifications and Technical Competencies

Education

• B.S. Electrical Engineering, Control Systems, Automation, or a related technical field (preferred).

Required Work Experience & Technical Skills

• Proven experience designing, programming, implementing, and troubleshooting industrial PLC and HMI systems, preferably in the Oil & Gas industry.
• Expert, hands-on expertise with Siemens PLCs (S7-300, S7-400, S7-1200, S7-1500).
• Strong working knowledge of WinCC for SCADA/HMI development, including tag configuration, graphical interface design, reporting, trending, archiving, and scripting.
• Proficiency in SIMATIC Step 7 (TIA Portal) for PLC programming.
• Strong knowledge of Siemens networking architecture and communication protocols (MPI, Profibus, Profinet).
• Experience with network configurations (serial, TCP/IP, fiber optic converters).
• Familiarity with Siemens, GE Fanuc, and Allen-Bradley PLCs, with working knowledge of other platforms.
• Knowledge of industrial protocols such as MODBUS, Data Highway, OPC, OPC UA, and integration using devices like Red Lion Protocol Converters.
• Proficiency in scripting/programming for automation customization, including SQL Server integration.
• Ability to read and generate PLC electrical interface drawings, system architecture diagrams, and I/O loop schematics.

Desirable Skills

• Advanced certifications in automation technologies (highly desirable).
• Experience implementing industrial cybersecurity best practices.

Core Competencies and Additional Skills

• Commissioning: Proven ability to commission systems from design through startup, including customer training and acceptance testing.
• Communication: Strong verbal communication skills, especially when integrating HCNA systems with client pump control systems and translating complex technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders.
• Documentation: Exceptional documentation skills, including the ability to write detailed technical reports (commissioning, annual, quarterly, and support visits).
• Problem-Solving: Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently or collaboratively within a team environment.

Company DescriptionAt Hansa Consult of North America, LLC (HCNA), we provide US EPA Third-Party certified leak detection solutions for fuel hydrant and pipeline systems. As a privately held company based in New Hampshire, we provide state-of-the-art leak detection for the U.S. DOD and commercial aviation customers in the U.S. and around the globe.

Company Description

At Hansa Consult of North America, LLC (HCNA), we provide US EPA Third-Party certified leak detection solutions for fuel hydrant and pipeline systems. As a privately held company based in New Hampshire, we provide state-of-the-art leak detection for the U.S. DOD and commercial aviation customers in the U.S. and around the globe.