Senior Control Systems Technician - Production Operations

San Antonio Water System; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 62,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in water services is looking for a Senior Control Systems Technician responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting process control systems. The role requires technical expertise in PLCs and SCADA systems and a relevant degree. This position promises competitive pay and supports the infrastructure of community water services.

Qualifications

• Three years' experience in maintenance and troubleshooting of control systems.
• Valid Class 'C' Texas Driver's License required.
• Instrument Society of America Certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Installation and maintenance of process control systems.
• Troubleshooting and calibration of control and instrument loops.
• Preparing reports regarding work orders and repairs.

Skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Technical guidance

Education

Associate degree in Instrumentation, Electronics, Industrial Fields

Tools

PLC programming

HMI programming

Work order management systems

Job description

Grade 19 - Starting hourly rate: $29.86. Rate of pay depends on qualifications.

Job Summary

The Senior Control Systems Technician is responsible for the installation, maintenance, programming, commissioning, and troubleshooting of process control systems. Under limited supervision, the technician prioritizes, plans, and completes assigned workloads efficiently. The technician works as part of the instrument and controls team to meet SAWS’ mission statement. Attendance at safety training and adherence to safety standards are required.

Essential Functions

• Performs complex maintenance, troubleshooting, calibration, programming, and system administration of Process Control Systems (SCADA and DCS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), control and instrument loops, field instrumentation, chemical analysis systems, variable frequency drives, communication network systems, hazardous chemical distribution and detection systems, and HMI computer workstations.
• Performs installation and implementation of process instrumentation, PLC-based control and instrument loops, communication network systems (Serial/IP/Radio), hazardous chemical distribution/detection systems, and chemical analyzer equipment.
• Ensures proper software application and system programming for maintaining and troubleshooting PLCs, HMIs, radios, and other field equipment.
• Creates, maintains, and updates critical information using various applications and programs; reviews and prepares reports regarding work orders, equipment calibration, repairs, and inventory.
• Coordinates and facilitates monthly group meetings.
• Participates in design review and construction processes, reviewing prints for conformity to SAWS standards and industry practices, evaluating and specifying instrumentation.
• Provides technical guidance and training to control system technicians for special projects and PCS control systems.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Decision-Making

• Works under limited supervision, taking initiative in planning and performing work.
• Coordinates technicians from different trades for repair and installation of complex control systems and instrumentation.

Minimum Requirements

• Associate degree in Instrumentation, Electronics, Industrial Fields, or related field, or 60 college hours from an accredited institution, or a Texas Journeyman Electrician License.
• Three years’ experience in maintenance, troubleshooting, calibration, repair, and installation of control and instrument loops, field instrumentation, or hazardous chemical systems, including two years in PLC hardware and software, SCADA/DCS fundamentals.
• Valid Class “C” Texas Driver’s License.
• Ability to report to work on time, maintain good attendance, and work scheduled hours.

Preferred Qualifications

• Instrument Society of America Certification.
• Cisco or approved network certification.
• Experience in potable and non-potable water industries.
• Relevant certifications related to job functions.
• Experience with work order and maintenance management systems.
• Proficiency in programming PLCs and HMIs.

Job Dimensions

• Knowledge of communication system protocols, hardware, and software for wired and wireless networks.
• Skills in using desktop applications like Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Visio, and Access.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Availability to work outside regular hours, including nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call shifts.
• Ability to operate a company vehicle and use calibration equipment proficiently.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

Physical requirements include visual acuity, color vision, standing, sitting, walking, climbing, bending, crawling, squatting, kneeling, and working in cramped and strained positions for extended periods. Ability to lift up to 75 pounds is required.

Work primarily outdoors with exposure to weather, wastewater, mechanical, electrical, chemical hazards, confined spaces, fumes, noise, traffic, excavations, animals, snakes, and insects. Compliance with PPE regulations, including respiratory protection, may be necessary.