Principal Automation Engineer

Principal Automation Engineer

Status:
Exempt (salaried)

Department:
Engineering – Electrical, Instrumentation & Controls

Position Summary

The Automation Engineer is a key member of the Electrolyzer engineering team and requires close interaction with the cross-discipline engineering, delivery, manufacturing, commissioning and service support teams. In this position the individual is responsible for the design, integration and testing of Package Controllers and Integrated Control & Safety systems of Plug's hydrogen generation systems. By combining strong troubleshooting skills, quality focus, and collaboration with cross-functional teams, the Automation Engineer ensures system robustness, user satisfaction, and continuous improvement of the existing control and safety systems.

The successful candidate must be self-motivated, able to handle multiple assignments and willing to learn and adapt in a fast-paced engineering organization.

Core Duties and Responsibilities

• Responsible for technical design of Plug's automation & control systems e.g. package control systems (PLC), Distributed Control & Safety Systems (DCS/ESD) and integrated control & safety systems (ICSS)
• Develop basis of design and control system architectures for automation system and subsystem of next generation hydrogen generation systems considering cost reductions and reliability improvements
• Ensure that interfaces with other engineering disciplines (e.g. process, instrumentation, functional safety and electrical) are consistent and aligned
• Responsible for handling technical communication with external engineering parties, suppliers and where applicable to clients
• Review documents prepared by sub-contractors to ensure quality and consistency
• Provide support during the conceptual and basic design phase and help estimating costs of the project (hours, equipment and construction budgets)
• Create system and subsystem specification/automation philosophy for procurement of automation systems
• Assist in developing a project specific system design with all associated documentation (philosophies, layouts, specifications, block diagrams, Cause & Effect diagrams, etc.)
• Ensure functional safety software/application design, development, testing, operation and maintenance will be in accordance with the IEC 61508 standards
• Ensure cybersecurity requirements are embedded during system design and with secure access controls across PLC, SCADA and DCS environments
• Participate in technical review meetings (P&w / HAZOP / SIL / LOPA / etc.)
• Identify issues (problems, value improvement opportunities) and help clarify areas of complexity during all phases of the engineering design work
• Provide frontline support for control system faults and subsystem communications issues on Electrolyzer systems in operation
• Perform diagnostic and failure analysis on PLC/DCS-based systems
• Assist in developing Functional Safety Management processes / procedures / instructions related to control systems
• Assist in developing and implementation in an organization-wide IACS cybersecurity management system in line with the IEC 62443 standards
• Is well-versed with (International) Codes & Standards, e.g. CE, IEC, ATEX, and ensures that designs comply with applicable codes & standards/legislation
• Developing knowledge and skills to be able to address current and future project needs
• Stay informed on the latest developments in industrial automation and IIoT/Edge solutions, OT cybersecurity and relevant codes & standards and ensure these developments are integrated into Plug's control system designs and practices.
• Proactively communicate technical risks, challenges, and scope changes to the Engineering Manager and escalate critical issues as needed to ensure timely resolution
• Responsible for growing Automation knowledge & expertise within the team
• Mentor team members on design work and act as senior technical resource for guidance
• Always Represent Plug Power in a professional manner and in all interactions
• Perform all other duties as assigned

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in industrial automation and relevant work experience
• Has at least 10 years of experience as Automation engineer,…