Process Controls Engineer

Brightpath Associates LLC; Franklin (VA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Brightpath Associates LLC is seeking an experienced Process Control Engineer to maintain and optimize the mill's DCS and QCS systems. You will develop ABB control loops for tissue production, adapt older architectures, and lead upgrades.

The role requires 5–7 years in process control with AB/ABB systems; tissue or papermill experience is highly desirable, with strong troubleshooting and project-management skills. On-site position with opportunities for technical leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field; advanced degree is a plus.
• Minimum 5–7 years in process control engineering with AB/ABB systems.
• Experience in tissue or papermill environments is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in programming ABB control loops and troubleshooting.

Responsibilities

• Maintenance and optimization of existing DCS & QCS systems for mill operations.
• Develop and program control loops in ABB systems for tissue production.
• Adapt older systems to ensure full functionality and standards.
• Lead system upgrades and integrate new control technologies.
• Provide technical support to production; maintain documentation and compliance.
• Identify continuous improvement opportunities to reduce downtime.
• Train and mentor junior engineers and technicians on control systems.

Skills

ABB systems

Process control

Troubleshooting

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering

Tools

QCS/DCS systems

Older control architectures

Job description

• Maintenance and optimization: maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize the existing mix of old and new DCS & QCS systems to ensure smooth and efficient mill operations.
• Programming Control Loops: Develop and program control loops in ABB systems, ensuring precision and reliability in the tissue production process.
• Adaptation to Older Systems: Learn and program in older control system architectures, ensuring they are fully functional and meet the mill’s operational standards.
• System Upgrades and Integration: Lead initiatives for system upgrades and integrate new control technologies with existing systems to enhance overall efficiency.
• Technical Support: Provide technical support to the production team, addressing any issues related to process control systems promptly and effectively.
• Documentation and Compliance: Create and maintain detailed documentation of control systems, programming changes, and maintenance activities. Ensure all control systems comply with industry standards and safety regulations.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in control systems and processes, implementing changes to optimize performance and reduce downtime.
• Training and Mentorship: Train and mentor junior engineers and technicians on control systems and programming, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and professional development.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, preferably in Electrical, Control Systems, or related field. Advanced degree is a plus.
• Experience: Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in process control engineering, with a focus on AB and ABB systems. Experience in a tissue or papermill environment is highly desirable.
• Technical skills:
• Proficiency in programming control loops in ABB systems.
• Strong understanding of QCS & DCS systems and their components.
• Ability to program and troubleshoot older control system architectures.
• Familiarity with process control instrumentation and electrical systems.
• Problem solving: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot complex control system issues effectively.
• Communication skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly to non-technical team members.
• Project management: Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines.