Controls Startup Lead

Burnett Staffing Specialists; Houston (TX); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Burnett Staffing Specialists is seeking a Controls Startup Lead for a travel-based, field-focused role specializing in gas turbine power generation projects. This position requires deep technical expertise in PLC and turbine control systems, hands-on commissioning experience, and the ability to lead on-site during startup phases.

Significant travel (up to 85%) is required, including home rotation every 10 days. Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s in Engineering or possess 15+ years of relevant experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or 15+ years in gas turbine controls.
• Expertise with Allen Bradley / RSLogix platforms required.
• Ability to travel up to 85% and work in various conditions.

Responsibilities

• Lead installation and commissioning of PLC and turbine control systems.
• Serve as primary control's authority during startup phases.
• Collaborate with teams to resolve technical issues.

Skills

Expert-level experience with Allen Bradley / RSLogix platforms

Strong knowledge of process instrumentation

High proficiency with PLCs and DCS systems

Ability to work in construction sites

Education

Bachelor of Science in Engineering or 15+ years of experience

Tools

PLC systems

DCS systems

Job description

Position Summary

The Controls Startup Lead is responsible for the installation, testing, and commissioning of PLC and turbine control systems for gas turbine power generation projects. This is a travel-based, field-focused role requiring deep technical expertise, hands‑on commissioning experience, and the ability to serve as the on‑site control’s authority during startup and commissioning phases.

Work Environment & Travel

• Field-based role across the U.S. (potential international travel)
• Project duration ranges from 1 month to several months per site
• Traveling up to 85%
• Home rotation: 10 days home every 3 months

Key Responsibilities

• Lead installation, testing, and commissioning of PLC and turbine control systems
• Serve as the primary control’s authority on‑site during startup and commissioning
• Perform and coordinate loop checks, system verification, and functional testing
• Verify, modify, and tune plant control loops to meet revised design requirements
• Program, configure, and troubleshoot gas turbine control systems
• Apply advanced process control methodologies across DCS, PLC, and HMI platforms
• Interpret P&IDs and work directly with instrumentation and control equipment
• Collaborate with construction, operations, maintenance, and vendor teams to resolve technical issues
• Provide technical guidance and field support throughout construction and startup phases

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering or 15+ years of experience in gas turbine controls and DCS engineering
• Expert‑level experience with Allen Bradley / RSLogix platforms
• Strong knowledge of process instrumentation (pressure, temperature, level, flow)
• High proficiency with PLCs, DCS systems, and industrial control environments
• Working knowledge of electrical equipment and systems
• Ability to work on active construction sites, including walking, standing, bending, and working in tight or elevated spaces
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Willingness to travel up to 85%, including potential international travel
• U.S. work authorization required (no sponsorship available)
• Ability to pass pre‑employment drug screening and background check

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with GE, Woodward, Ovation, or similar control platforms
• Experience supporting GE aeroderivative gas turbines
• Knowledge of industrial networks and communication protocols
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast‑paced, matrixed environment