Automation & Controls Analyst (PLC/SCADA) – Oil & Midstream

plains; Midland (TX); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Plains is seeking an Analyst, Electrical & Instrumentation to maintain, diagnose, troubleshoot, and develop Plains' controls and automation systems across our Operations Technical Services group.

The role includes significant field integration, collaboration with instrumentation and electrical techs, and working with SCADA, HMIs, and PLCs to support pipeline operations. A strong background in electrical theory, PLCs, and data communications is essential.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in engineering technology or electrical / technical certification.
• 3 years' experience in instrumentation and PLC programming.
• Knowledge of electrical theory and operation as well as motor relay equipment.
• Experience diagnosing communications hardware including radio equipment, satellite, and leased circuits.
• Able to reconfigure existing PLCs and work toward programming new installs.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of data communications interfaces and protocols, with thorough understanding of TCP/IP networks.
• Able to articulate Control Center needs associated with aspects of data acquisition in pipeline operations.
• Able to read and interpret electrical schematics and P&IDs.
• Thorough understanding of electronic controls and PLC/SCADA program development.
• Proficient in AC/DC theory with a complete understanding of total electrical wiring including all inputs and outputs to field devices.
• Competent in basic ladder logic and function block diagram programming and troubleshooting.
• Strong computer skills with knowledge of MS Office tools (Word / Excel and Outlook).
• Good organizational and time-management skills.
• Strong communicator, both written and verbal.
• Able to adapt to a change in work priorities and manage multiple projects with short turnaround times.
• Valid US drivers' license with a clean abstract.
• Cleared criminal history (background) and satisfactory reference checks.
• Compliance with the Company's drug and alcohol policy including pre-employment screening.
• This position is not eligible for employment-based visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. for the duration of their employment

Responsibilities

• Program, update, and modify human machine interfaces (HMIs) and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) as required and prescribed.
• Coordinate with instrumentation and electrical techs to install, configure, commission, troubleshoot, and maintain programmable control processors and SCADA communication equipment.
• Configure enterprise level routers, switches, and firewalls (Cisco, SonicWall, etc.).
• Establish SCADA interface through radios, satellite, and leased lines.
• Communicate problems and undertake or coordinate necessary repairs and maintenance.
• Document and describe common and vendor-supplied software required to perform diagnostics and programming.
• Investigate the feasibility of alternate design approaches and analyze data exchange protocols.
• Identify the impact of program changes on existing software and processes; recommend changes to management/supervision on equipment that controls pipeline operations.
• Work with other industry specialists to determine the most suitable applications and programming technologies.
• Maintain and track changes to existing software and hardware pertaining to SCADA systems.
• Perform and document authorized changes while maintaining system integrity.

Skills

Instrumentation PLC programming

Electrical theory

Comms hardware diagnostics

Electrical schematics & P&IDs

Ladder logic

TCP/IP networking

Communication skills

Adaptability

Project management

Driver license

Background checks

Drug/alcohol policy

Work authorization (US)

Education

Associate degree in engineering technology or electrical / technical certification

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Plains is seeking an Analyst, Electrical & Instrumentation to maintain, diagnose, troubleshoot, and develop Plains' controls and automation systems across our Operations Technical Services group.

The role includes significant field integration, collaboration with instrumentation and electrical techs, and working with SCADA, HMIs, and PLCs to support pipeline operations. A strong background in electrical theory, PLCs, and data communications is essential.