Process Control Leader

southern recruiting solutions, inc.; Baton Rouge (LA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern Recruiting Solutions, Inc. seeks a Process Control Leader in Baton Rouge, LA. The role requires leading DCS/OPEX projects to meet safety, quality, cost, and schedule targets, while providing expert guidance on configurable control systems across I&E and Operations.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in engineering roles, strong leadership, and hands-on experience with DCS/PLC/SIS, with familiarity in process safety practices such as HAZOP and SIL. Relocation is provided.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years' experience in Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical or Instrumentation/Control Systems Engineering (DCS) in Oil & Gas, Refining or Petrochemical.
• 5+ years proven leadership experience.
• Experience with DCS, PLC, and preferably SIS.
• Strong understanding of process dynamics, control loops, and instrumentation.
• Experience with process safety management and risk assessment methodologies (HAZOP, SIL, SIS).
• Familiarity with ISA, IEC, OSHA, EPA standards.

Responsibilities

• Manage DCS OPEX projects and modifications to meet safety, quality, cost and schedule targets.
• Provide expert knowledge on configurable control systems.
• Advise I&E and Operations on I&E systems.
• Monitor process data to identify inefficiencies and implement control improvements.
• Diagnose and resolve control system issues, providing technical support to operations and maintenance.
• Ensure control systems meet safety and regulatory requirements (HAZOP, SIS reviews, risk assessments).
• Collaborate to develop and implement process control improvements to boost plant performance and reduce downtime.
• Oversee maintenance, upgrades, and expansion of control systems and ensure documentation is up to date.
• Develop training materials and train operators/tech staff on control system operation.

Skills

Leadership

Process control

HAZOP experience

SIS familiarity

Education

B.S. Chemical Eng

Tools

DCS

PLC

SIS

Job description

Responsibilities:

• The Process Control Leader will e ensures all assigned DCS OPEX projects and modifications are managed such that the safety, quality, cost and schedule targets are achieved.
• Provides expert knowledge, advice and direction to management and co-workers on configurable control systems within the company.
• Provides technical advice and assistance to the I&E Supervisor, I&E Technicians and the Operations Department on I&E systems.
• Monitor and analyze process data to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and opportunities for process optimization. Implement process control solutions to improve production rates, reduce energy consumption, and maintain product quality.
• Diagnose and resolve control system issues, including hardware failures, software malfunctions, and process-related anomalies. Provide technical support to operations and maintenance teams.
• Ensure that control systems meet safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements. Participate in hazard and operability studies (HAZOP), safety instrumented systems (SIS) reviews, and risk assessments.
• Continuous Improvement: Collaborate with production, engineering, and maintenance teams to develop and implement process control improvements that enhance plant performance, reduce downtime, and increase efficiency.
• Oversee routine maintenance, upgrades, and expansion of control systems. Ensure that control systems are up-to-date, reliable, and meet plant needs.
• Develop training materials and provide training to operators and technical staff on control system operation and troubleshooting. Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation for control systems and processes.
• Other positions available at www.southernrs.com.
• Relocation provided.

Requirements

• The Process Control Leader will have a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years’ experience in Mechanical, Electrical or Chemical Engineering or Instrumentation/Control Systems Engineering (DCS) preferably in the Oil & Gas, Refining and/or Petrochemical industries.
• 5+ years proven leadership experience preferred.
• Experience level of Mechanical/Piping engineering and design knowledge.
• Proficiency in DCS, PLC, and, preferably, SIS.
• Strong understanding of process dynamics, control loops, and instrumentation.
• Experience with process safety management and risk assessment methodologies (HAZOP, SIL, SIS).
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory requirements (e.g., ISA, IEC, OSHA, EPA).
• Project management experience is a plus.
• Must be legally eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.