Instrumentation and Controls Technician

Job description

The Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Specialist is a high-level technical role that bridges the gap between field maintenance and system engineering. This individual is a subject matter expert responsible for the design, integration, and advanced troubleshooting of complex electrical and automated control systems within the plant. Unlike a standard technician, the Specialist leads capital projects, authors technical documentation, and develops PLC/SCADA logic while remaining "hands-on" for critical plant repairs and commissioning.

Key Characteristics Systems Thinking

Ability to design integrated control loops and understand the "big picture" of plant water treatment functions Advanced Problem-Solving: Capability to resolve chronic equipment issues through root-cause analysis and logic modifications Leadership without Management: Acts as a technical lead for contractors and junior technicians during plant outages and system upgrades High-Stakes Decision Quality: Makes critical decisions regarding system architecture and safety protocols to ensure 24/7 operational efficiency

Duties & Responsibilities

System Design & Integration: Author and modify technical drawings, P&IDs, and electrical schematics for new plant installations or equipment repositioning Advanced Programming: Design, program, and configure PLCs, DCS, and HMI systems (primarily Allen-Bradley) to optimize plant processes Complex Electrical Work: Execute high-level electrical tasks including wiring, power distribution, and the layout of new metering and signaling devices Project Commissioning: Lead the commissioning of new mobile equipment and fixed plant facilities, ensuring all instrumentation meets business and regulatory specifications Lifecycle Documentation: Prepare comprehensive system design diagrams, maintenance reports, and "as-built" documentation for the facility Safety & Compliance Leadership: Set the standard for OSHA and environmental safety compliance, including the development of spill response and arc flash protocols)

Emergency Technical Support

Provide expert-level response to plant emergency repairs that exceed the scope of standard technician capabilities Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Preferred: Expertise in Control Theory: Deep knowledge of analog/digital integrated circuits and modern electronics technology Industrial Networking: Proficiency in configuring communication protocols between field devices, PLCs, and SCADA systems Regulatory Mastery: Advanced knowledge of water industry regulations, OSHA standards, and National Electrical Code (NEC)

Physical Dexterity

Ability to perform physical duties including lifting 50lbs, climbing, and working in various weather conditions at industrial sites Compensation: $38.00-$40.50 per hour

Qualifications

Qualifications

Associate Degree or Diploma in Electronic Engineering/Technology or a related field Minimum of 8–10 years of experience in process control (exceeding the standard 5-year requirement)

Preferred

• Proven Project Leadership experience and relevant professional certifications (e.g., ISA CCST or Journeyman Electrician License) Relevant certifications Experience in the water industry
• Proven project leadership experience in this domain
• Ability and willingness to work in various weather conditions (indoor / outdoor)
• Ability and willingness to perform physical duties such as lifting up to 50 pounds, climbing, working at elevated heights, and manual dexterity
• Ability and willingness to work in industrial facilities, manufacturing facilities, and power industry facilities
• Ability and willingness to travel (10%) for install and repair if needed
• Ability and willingness to work holidays and weekends based on business demand