SCADA Specialist

Title: SCADA Specialist
Job type: 12+ Months
Location: Prince William, VA (3 days in person)

Position Responsibilities/Essential Job Functions:
Implement Process and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&ID) and narrative control descriptions into Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) programs. Work with I & E technicians in the field to integrate control programs at the control panel and end-element level. Suggest changes and improvements to the control logic and operator interface systems to support the EMS team efforts.
Develop and update SCADA Human Machine Interface (HMI) control logic and display screens to make the control system more operator-friendly and effective. Maintain the SCADA object and historical databases and graphics interface links.
Provide programming and system configuration direction and support to third-party contractors that install instrumentation & control equipment. This includes providing direction on achieving process control goals; assisting with programming the controls for new facilities; making modifications as needed, and troubleshooting control problems.
Provide technical support to field staff for programming and troubleshooting of embedded PLCs in process control equipment to ensure proper operation and interaction with the SCADA system. This includes researching and selecting instrumentation, developing control wiring schematics, updating drawings in AutoCAD, and developing control strategies.
Link SCADA-generated information to other Service Authority information systems and databases such as the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), Water Information Management System (WIMS), and other related information systems.
Install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot network equipment including switches, routers, and VPN connections, in a zero-trust security environment.
Perform backups and archival tasks for programs, graphic screens, tag database, and historical database. Maintain security systems and administers the system and user passwords.
Prepare standard and ad-hoc reports and check manual data entries for accuracy and completeness.
Gathers data to assist in-process evaluations of unusual conditions such as storm flows. Assist with data collection required for compliance reporting such as DMR and air quality reporting.
Research and prepare technical and administrative reports; prepare written correspondence.
Assist computer users in solving hardware and software problems, associated with the automation systems, to assure continuous system functionality. Make service calls during off- hours as required.
Train Operations staff with emphasis on control logic and interaction between the SCADA system and process control to assure total system effectiveness. Provide computer application training.
Assist with budget preparation. Ensure budgetary adherence on a routine basis.
Responsible for initiating and managing SCADA-related procurement processes including the request for proposals (RFP), statements of work (SOW), project charts, project milestones, and deliverables.
Serve as the contract administrator for related projects to ensure qualitative and quantitative results. Participate as a member of selection committees and interact with vendors and consultants on an ongoing basis.
Perform PLC vendor program updates and modifications. Perform system backup and restore operations to safeguard programs and assure continuous system functionality.
Coordinate with others in the Information Technology (IT) Department regarding various issues associated with the Local Area Network (LAN), LAN security, and other IT issues such as application security, firewall configuration, and communications systems.
Maintain Microsoft-based SCADA servers and network equipment. Install, configure, and troubleshoot servers. Serve as System Administrator for SCADA users.
Track trends and analyze system inputs to monitor operational efficiency and effectiveness.
Participate in a range of settings and ad-hoc team settings including teams addressing process control, energy and chemical usage, and data management. Provide information and analysis to the team for project evaluations.
Investigate, select, and procure automation equipment and supplies. Participate in maintenance service contract negotiations.
Take responsibility for the physical preventive maintenance (PM) of all SCADA equipment.
May be deemed essential at any time.
Performs other duties as assigned or required.

Essential Skills and Experience:
Ability to perform technical computer operational work in support of wastewater treatment plant and collection and distribution operations; train users and operators in the use of computers and systems; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with others encountered in the work; work in a team environment; teach and learn from others.
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; speak clearly and persuasively; listen to gain clarification; establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Ability to translate technical terminology into terms understandable to management and employees.
Ability to develop, manage and maintain budgets.
Knowledge of the following: theory and practice of the design processes and operation of public utility facilities; process instrumentation, process control techniques, field sensors, and controllers, digital control hardware including Programmable Logic Controllers, Relay Ladder Logic, and control software and/or networking hardware/software; switches, firewalls, router configurations, and network management systems.
Knowledge and/or experience leading and managing procurement processes.
Must understand process and instrumentation diagrams, electrical schematics, relay logic, input/output lists, and instrument lists.
Possess demonstrated ability to develop, program, and utilize SCADA systems.
Must possess demonstrated leadership skills, the ability to lead others, take ownership, and make decisions.
Exhibit keen attention to detail coupled with a global vision.
Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a closely related field.
At least four years of progressively responsible experience in the operation and maintenance of Microsoft-based computers and SCADA applications in support of operations.
Possess at least two or more years of PLC programming knowledge and experience.
Or a combination of education and experience described above.

Preferred Skills and Experience:
Knowledge and related experience in water and wastewater treatment operations.
Six or more years of progressively responsible experience in the operating of Microsoft-based SCADA systems in support of plant operations.
Three or more years of experience working in an industrial environment supporting Ethernet- based control systems.
Experience designing complex control loops and wiring schematics using AutoCAD software.
Demonstrated experience with RSLogix 5000 programming software.
Demonstrated knowledge of Wonderware System Platform.
Demonstrated knowledge with GeoSCADA Expert.
Demonstrated knowledge with EcoStruxure Control Expert (Unity Pro)
Knowledge and/or experience of procurement processes and procedures following the Virginia Public Procurement Act.

Special Requirements:
This position may require some travel (including for training, conferences, meetings, or other work-related needs). Must have access to reliable transportation for such travel.