Process Control Engineer - Automation Specialist

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 95,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Process Control Engineer for a remote role, focusing on advanced process control and automation to optimize plant performance.

You will design, implement, and maintain APC strategies, configure DCS/PLC systems, and develop HMI interfaces while collaborating with process engineers.

This role requires 5+ years in process control, working knowledge of DeltaV/Experion, and strong problem-solving skills; remote work with reliable internet is essential.

Qualifications

• BEng or BSc in Chemical or Electrical Engineering with a focus on control systems.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process control engineering and automation.
• Proficiency with major DCS platforms (DeltaV, Experion) and PLC programming (Rockwell, Siemens).
• Strong knowledge of control theory, PID control, and advanced strategies.
• Experience with SCADA and HMI development; remote work capability.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement APC strategies for chemical processes.
• Configure, commission, and troubleshoot DCS and PLCs.
• Develop and maintain control logic, HMIs, and alarm management.
• Collaborate with process engineers to optimize performance.
• Perform root cause analysis for control system issues.
• Develop testing plans for control system mods and upgrades.
• Provide remote technical support for plant automation.
• Stay current with automation tech and industry standards.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and create system docs.

Skills

Process control

Control theory

PID control

SCADA

HMI development

Education

BEng/BSc in Chemical or Electrical Eng

Tools

Emerson DeltaV

Honeywell Experion

Rockwell PLC

Siemens PLC

Python

VBA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive manufacturer of industrial chemicals, is seeking a skilled Process Control Engineer with expertise in automation to join their team. This role is offered on a remote basis, allowing you to leverage your skills from anywhere. You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining advanced process control strategies and automation systems to optimize plant performance, ensure safety, and improve product quality. This position requires a deep understanding of control theory, distributed control systems (DCS), and programmable logic controllers (PLCs), coupled with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. You will be a key contributor to our digital transformation initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement advanced process control (APC) strategies for chemical processes.
• Configure, commission, and troubleshoot Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs).
• Develop and maintain control logic, HMI interfaces, and alarm management systems.
• Collaborate with process engineers to define control system requirements and optimize process performance.
• Perform root cause analysis for control system failures and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and execute testing plans for control system modifications and upgrades.
• Provide remote technical support and troubleshooting for plant automation systems.
• Stay current with advancements in automation technology, control theory, and industrial communication protocols.
• Ensure all automation designs comply with relevant industry standards and safety regulations.
• Create and maintain detailed documentation for control systems, including P&IDs, logic diagrams, and user manuals.

Requirements

• BEng or BSc in Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a focus on control systems.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process control engineering and industrial automation.
• Proficiency with major DCS platforms (e.g., Emerson DeltaV, Honeywell Experion) and PLC programming (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens).
• Strong understanding of control theory, PID control, and advanced control strategies.
• Experience with SCADA systems and HMI development.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote team environment.
• Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Python, VBA) for data analysis and automation is a plus.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity principles for industrial control systems is advantageous.
• Must be able to work remotely with reliable internet connectivity.

Benefits

This remote position offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and the flexibility to work from anywhere. Our client provides opportunities for professional growth, including training on the latest automation technologies and access to industry conferences. You will be part of a forward-thinking company focused on leveraging technology to drive efficiency and innovation in the chemical sector.