SCADA Programmer

Kelso Industries; Dickinson (ND); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Kelso Industries seeks a skilled SCADA Programmer to design, develop, and support industrial control systems for real-world environments. You will own the full lifecycle from design to commissioning, delivering intuitive HMIs and reliable SCADA solutions for operators and plants.

The role requires hands-on experience with Ignition, FactoryTalk, Wonderware, and PLC interfaces, plus a focus on safety, documentation, and continuous improvement. Travel for commissioning is expected.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3+ years of experience designing and supporting SCADA systems in industrial environments.
• Prefer 5-10 years of PLC / HMI programming experience, 1-3 years SCADA programming experience, 1-2 years of AutoCAD drafting experience.
• Strong organizational and leadership skills.
• Hands-on experience with Ignition, FactoryTalk, Wonderware, or equivalent.
• Experience with PLC systems and industrial networking concepts.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop industrial SCADA systems from concept through deployment.
• Configure and program platforms such as Ignition, FactoryTalk, Wonderware, or similar.
• Develop intuitive, user-friendly HMI interfaces for plant operators.
• Integrate SCADA systems with PLCs and RTUs (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Modbus).
• Configure and troubleshoot industrial communication protocols including EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/RTU, OPC, and DNP3.
• Develop and maintain data historians, trending tools, and reporting systems.
• Design and optimize alarm management systems to ensure clarity and usability.
• Architect and troubleshoot SCADA networks and system infrastructure.
• Commission systems onsite and ensure proper operation under real-world conditions.
• Diagnose and resolve issues across SCADA, PLCs, and industrial networks.
• Support system upgrades, expansions, and continuous improvements.
• Maintain accurate, organized, and comprehensive technical documentation.

Skills

SCADA troubleshooting

Independent work

Effective communication

Time management

Decision making

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

Ignition

FactoryTalk

Wonderware

AutoCAD drafting

Rockwell Automation / Allen-Bradley

Job description

Together We Build – Partnership, Innovation, Excellence, and Safety

At Kelso Industries, 4,000+ employees across 40+ companies work together to deliver exceptional HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, refrigeration, and electrical solutions nationwide. Join us to grow your career, make an impact, and be part of a team where innovation, excellence, and safety come first.

SCADA Programmer

Role Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled SCADA Programmer to design, develop, and support industrial control systems in demanding, real-world environments. This role is responsible for full lifecycle SCADA system execution—from initial design through implementation, commissioning, and ongoing optimization.

The ideal candidate is a self-directed problem solver who takes ownership of system performance, delivers reliable solutions, and ensures systems are intuitive and effective for end users.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop industrial SCADA systems from concept through deployment
• Configure and program platforms such as Ignition, FactoryTalk, Wonderware, or similar
• Develop intuitive, user-friendly HMI interfaces for plant operators
• Integrate SCADA systems with PLCs and RTUs (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Modbus)
• Configure and troubleshoot industrial communication protocols including EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/RTU, OPC, and DNP3
• Develop and maintain data historians, trending tools, and reporting systems
• Design and optimize alarm management systems to ensure clarity and usability
• Architect and troubleshoot SCADA networks and system infrastructure
• Commission systems onsite and ensure proper operation under real-world conditions
• Diagnose and resolve issues across SCADA, PLCs, and industrial networks
• Support system upgrades, expansions, and continuous improvements
• Maintain accurate, organized, and comprehensive technical documentation

Core Competencies

• Strong troubleshooting capabilities across SCADA systems, PLCs, and industrial networks
• Ability to translate complex or incomplete requirements into functional system designs
• Effective time management and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Clear communication with both technical teams and plant operators
• Ability to work independently and take initiative
• Sound judgment in balancing quality, efficiency, and project timelines

Qualifications

• Minimum 3+ years of experience designing and supporting SCADA systems in industrial environments
• Prefer 5-10 years of PLC / HMI programming experience, 1-3 years SCADA programming experience, 1-2 years of AutoCAD drafting experience
• Strong organizational and leadership skills
• Hands-on experience with platforms such as Ignition, FactoryTalk, Wonderware, or equivalent
• Experience with Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation Logix platforms or similar PLC system
• Solid understanding of industrial networking, system architecture, and data flow
• Proven ability to execute projects from design through commissioning
• Experience in industrial sectors such as manufacturing, food processing, or oil & gas is preferred
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field preferred; equivalent practical experience will be considered

Work Environment

• Industrial facilities including manufacturing plants and processing sites
• Exposure to outdoor environments, noise, and active equipment
• Travel required as needed for system commissioning and support

Expectations

• Deliver systems that are reliable, functional, and maintainable
• Produce clear and accurate documentation
• Adhere to all safety standards and protocols
• Meet project deadlines and commitments

Company Values

We are committed to delivering high-quality systems through accountability and execution.

• Accountability
• Reliability
• Integrity
• Safety
• Communication

Why Join Kelso Industries?

Join us and be part of a team dedicated to creating efficient, sustainable, and high-performance environments that make a lasting impact across the industrial, commercial, and institutional sectors.

Here You Will Experience

Growth Opportunities: Develop new skills, take on exciting challenges, and advance your career in meaningful ways.

Company Culture: You’ll thrive in an environment that supports your growth, values your contributions, and makes work fulfilling and enjoyable.

Impact: Your work directly contributes to meaningful outcomes, allowing you to see the difference you make and feel a sense of purpose every day.

Competitive Compensation & Benefits: You’ll be rewarded fairly for your contributions while enjoying perks that enhance your financial security, health, and overall well‑being.

Kelso Industries celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate in any aspect of employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, age, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local employment discrimination laws where Kelso does business