Automation Control Technologist

Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo; Fort McMurray; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading municipality is seeking an Automation Control Technologist to maintain and enhance water and sewage control systems. The role involves programming, troubleshooting, and ensuring efficient operations of SCADA and PLC systems. Candidates should possess strong communication skills and relevant certifications, along with a commitment to safety and teamwork.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of industrial control system programming experience.
• 2 years supporting SCADA systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop, modify, and maintain PLC / HMI / SCADA programs.
• Respond to field service call-outs for Process Control Systems.
• Train operators, end users, and staff as required.

Skills

Communication

Decision-making

Troubleshooting

Leadership

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Journeyperson Instrumentation Mechanic

Applied Science Technician or Technologist

Instrumentation or Electrical Engineering Technologist

Job description

Bi-weekly Working Hours : 80 hours bi-weekly

Department / Branch : Water and Wastewater Services, Wastewater Treatment

Job Location : Fort McMurray

Market Rate

COLA : Bi-Weekly - $480

Posting Type : Internal and External

Reposted : June 29, 2024 (Original CUPE Closing Date : January 8, 2023)

• This position's pay rate has been adjusted to reflect current market conditions. The non-market / evaluated permanent rate of pay for this position is $ per hour.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION :

Under minimal supervision, the Automation Control Technologist maintains infrastructure related to water and sewage supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA), programmable logic controller (PLC), human-machine interface (HMI), and communication platforms. The incumbent programs, repairs, designs, replaces, and maintains all technical software, hardware, blueprints, and technical data sheets. They provide technical assistance, inspect staff and contractor work, and coordinate service delivery with internal and external clients. This role requires independent judgment, problem-solving, and decision-making, with errors potentially impacting finances, municipal operations, corporate image, and strategic goals.

RESPONSIBILITIES :

• Develop, modify, and maintain PLC / HMI / SCADA programs following IEC 1131-3 standards.
• Participate in the Management of Change Process related to Automation Control.
• Design and integrate new logic for PLC / HMI / SCADA systems as needed.
• Conduct site acceptance testing (SAT) and system commissioning.
• Respond to field service call-outs for Process Control Systems.
• Update emergency operation plans and SCADA orientation manuals.
• Requisition materials and supplies per policy.
• Develop and maintain long-term technology plans for operational needs and projects.
• Prepare reports, statistics, and undertake special projects.
• Train operators, end users, technologists, and staff as required.
• Maintain documentation including blueprints, schematics, databases, and manuals.
• Develop and deploy new applications and system software or enhancements.
• Research and recommend software and hardware products supporting procurement and development.
• Review and analyze existing applications.
• Demonstrate leadership in efficiency and technology improvements.
• Perform other related duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES :

• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, including report writing.
• Experience with Management of Change processes in Automation Control.
• Knowledge of PLC programming principles, practices, and techniques.
• Decision-making, troubleshooting, organizational, and conflict resolution skills.
• Knowledge of IEC 1131-3 standards.
• Ability to explain automation and control concepts clearly to non-technical staff.
• Leadership and training skills for knowledge transfer.
• Ability to troubleshoot and learn new concepts independently.
• Knowledge of water and wastewater systems, chemistry, and mechanical components (pumps, motors) is an asset.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE :

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent required.
• One of the following certifications is required:
• Journeyperson Instrumentation Mechanic
• Applied Science Technician or Technologist
• Instrumentation or Electrical Engineering Technologist
• At least five (5) years of industrial control system programming experience, including two (2) years supporting SCADA systems.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS :

• Criminal Record Check submission required.
• Immunizations are recommended for working in unsanitary conditions.

SAFETY :

Employees must understand and participate in the RMWB’s health and safety system, including policies, practices, procedures, and proper use of personal protective equipment. Employees should actively report concerns, near misses, incidents, and hazards to their supervisor.