Automation and Control System Engineer

Optimal; Dhahran Compound; On-site; SAR 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Optimal is seeking a skilled automation and control systems engineer in Dhahran Compound, Saudi Arabia. The role involves the design, programming, and testing of diverse control systems including PLC and DCS solutions. Candidates should have experience in oil & gas or manufacturing and a solid understanding of industry standards.

The ideal applicant possesses a relevant engineering degree and at least 4 years of experience, along with programming skills on major control platforms. This is a great opportunity to grow your career in a dynamic environment with a focus on innovation and quality.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years of experience in automation and control system engineering.
• Demonstrated programming experience on at least one major PLC or DCS platform.
• Knowledge of IEC 61508 and IEC 61511 safety lifecycle standards required for senior roles.

Responsibilities

• Design, configure, and programme control system solutions.
• Develop control logic, function block diagrams, and HMI/SCADA interface designs.
• Manage system integration activities including third-party interface design.

Skills

PLC programming

DCS configuration

SCADA development

Industrial communication protocols

Cybersecurity awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field

Tools

Ignition

WinCC

FactoryTalk

Job description

Responsible for the design, configuration, programming, testing, and commissioning of automation and control systems across industrial environments. Covers the full engineering lifecycle from requirements and architecture through to FAT, SAT, and post-commissioning support, spanning PLC, DCS, SCADA, SIS, ICSS, RTU/ETS, and IIoT-based solutions.

Job Description and Responsibilities

• Design, configure, and programme control system solutions including PLC, DCS, SCADA, HMI, SIS, ICSS, and RTU/ETS architectures.
• Develop control logic, function block diagrams, ladder logic, cause-and-effect matrices, and HMI/SCADA interface designs.
• Define I/O architecture, network topology, communication protocols, and system integration specifications.
• Manage system integration activities including third-party interface design, OPC connectivity, and industrial communication network implementation.
• Plan, prepare, and execute Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT), Integrated FAT (IFAT), and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT).
• Support pre-commissioning, commissioning, startup, and handover activities on-site.
• Perform lifecycle maintenance, system upgrades, and optimisation of installed control systems.
• Ensure cybersecurity considerations are incorporated into system architecture and configuration.
• Prepare and maintain engineering deliverables including functional design specifications (FDS), hardware design specifications (HDS), and test documentation.
• Collaborate with instrumentation, electrical, process, and client engineering teams throughout the project lifecycle.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Control Systems, Mechatronics, or Computer Engineering.
• Minimum 4 years of experience in automation and control system engineering in oil and gas, power, or manufacturing sectors.
• Demonstrated programming experience on at least one major PLC or DCS platform (Siemens, Rockwell, ABB, Emerson, Honeywell, or equivalent).
• Knowledge of IEC 61508 and IEC 61511 safety lifecycle standards for SIS/ESD systems is required for senior-level assignments.
• Professional engineering certification or relevant vendor certification is an advantage.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Proficiency in PLC programming (IEC 61131-3) and DCS configuration on major platforms.
• SCADA and HMI development experience (Ignition, WinCC, FactoryTalk, or equivalent).
• Strong knowledge of industrial communication protocols: Modbus, Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP, OPC-UA.
• Understanding of SIS and ESD system design per IEC 61508/61511.
• Experience with FAT, SAT, and commissioning documentation.
• Cybersecurity awareness in OT/ICS environments.
• Analytical and systematic approach to complex control system troubleshooting.