PLC/HMI Field Applications Specialist

Inframark; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Inframark is seeking a Field Automation Systems (FAS) Engineer to support control system integration, commissioning, and customer support in the Water/Wastewater industry. This hands-on field role involves configuring, programming, testing, and troubleshooting SCADA, PLCs, HMIs, networking equipment, and instrumentation.

You will work on-site at various customer facilities, collaborate with project managers, and provide on-site training while ensuring safety and compliance with standards.

Qualifications

• Technical degree in engineering or 3+ years field service in instrumentation, control systems, or automation.
• Water/Wastewater industry experience is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Review project requirements with the Project Manager and analyze contract documents.
• Maintain clear communication with Project Managers on task status, milestones, and budget.
• Produce accurate and timely documentation, including timesheets and system updates.
• Set up system servers, workstations, operating systems, networks and peripherals at job sites.
• Develop System Control Narratives to define automation logic.
• Program PLCs and develop HMI applications according to contract specs.
• Conduct FAT and SAT as required.
• Field installation and commissioning of control panels, wiring, and I/O.
• Provide on-site training for operators and staff on system operation.

Skills

Control systems

PLC programming

SCADA applications

Networking fundamentals

Electrical schematics

P&ID diagrams

Field troubleshooting

Commissioning

Education

Technical degree in engineering field

3+ years field service in instrumentation/automation

Tools

PLC programming software

SCADA software

HMI development tools

Job description

Position Summary

Inframark is seeking a Field Automation Systems (FAS) Engineer to play a crucial role in control system integration, commissioning, and customer support. This position involves configuring, programming, testing, and troubleshooting industrial control systems—including SCADA, PLCs, HMIs, networking equipment, and instrumentation—primarily in the Water/Wastewater Industry.

This is a hands-on field role that requires technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and a customer-focused approach. If you have experience with automation, control systems, and networking and enjoy working on-site to deliver innovative solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Project Management & Coordination

• Review project requirements through meetings with the Project Manager and contract document analysis.
• Maintain clear communication with Project Managers, keeping them informed of task status, milestones, and budgetary concerns.
• Produce accurate and timely documentation, including timesheets, trip reports, and system updates.
• Follow established Best Practices, Development Standards, and Procedures to ensure high-quality project execution.

System Configuration & Programming

• Set up system servers, workstations, operating systems, networks, and peripheral equipment at job sites.
• Develop System Control Narratives to define automation logic.
• Program PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) and develop HMI (Human-Machine Interface) applications according to contract specifications.
• Conduct Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) when required.

Field Installation & Commissioning

• Perform control panel commissioning, including field signal wiring, panel terminations, and I/O checkout.
• Conduct system startups, integrating PLC, HMI, instrumentation, and networking equipment.
• Ensure system hardware, network operation, SCADA functionality, and data collection align with project requirements.
• Provide on-site training for operators, supervisors, and administrative personnel on system operation and maintenance.

Technical Support & Documentation

• Provide on-call service support for customers, troubleshooting startup and warranty issues.
• Perform instrument installation and calibration services, including physical setup, wire terminations, commissioning, and documentation.
• Mark up control panel drawings to reflect final field modifications.
• Assist with integrating third-party systems and devices into automation networks.

Other Duties

• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance system efficiency.
• Mentor and train junior team members to develop a strong engineering workforce.
• Ensure all projects comply with safety and industry standards.

Qualifications & Skills

Education & Experience:

• Technical degree in an engineering-related field OR 3+ years of field service experience in instrumentation, control systems, or automation.
• Experience in the Water/Wastewater industry is highly preferred.

Technical Skills:

• Strong understanding of control systems, PLC programming, and SCADA applications.
• Knowledge of networking fundamentals, IP addressing, and communication protocols (Ethernet, Modbus, BACnet, etc.).
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, P&ID diagrams, and contract documents.
• Hands-on experience with control panel integration, troubleshooting, and commissioning.

Soft Skills:

• Excellent communication skills to interact with customers, project managers, and team members.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

Work Locations:

• This job requires working in diverse environments, including:
  • Office settings for project planning and documentation.
  • Manufacturing shops and control panel assembly areas.
  • Customer jobsites (indoor and outdoor), including industrial and water treatment facilities.
  • Construction sites where physical tasks (lifting, climbing, working on ladders) may be required.

Work Conditions:

• May require extended periods of sitting, standing, and manual work.
• Exposure to varying weather conditions in field environments.
• On-call availability for system troubleshooting, startup, and warranty support.