Automation Specialist

Professional Summary

The Technical Specialist – Automation plays a critical role in the Power Innovation Commissioning division, serving as an expert technical lead for the automation systems that support the commissioning, energization, and operational transition of energy infrastructure. This individual is responsible for driving safe, high-efficiency commissioning strategies, validating control system logic, and establishing standards across complex assets such as Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), substations, and generation facilities.

Working cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, Construction, and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), the position ensures full compliance with design requirements, operational safety, and system integration standards.

• Execute technical oversight of automation systems supporting commissioning, startup, and operational handoff for power and energy infrastructure assets.
• Lead the development and execution of comprehensive commissioning plans, functional test protocols, and automation validation procedures.
• Manage high-risk commissioning milestones, including Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), systemization, and punch-list closure while optimizing resource utilization.
• Validate PLC, DCS, SCADA, and HMI control logic, startup/shutdown sequences, alarm management frameworks, and interface configurations.
• Deliver real-time field troubleshooting and diagnostic support for complex automation issues during energization and asset startup.
• Prepare and present technical briefings, commissioning readiness reviews, and post-event analytical summaries to project leadership and cross-functional teams.
• Ensure strict adherence to relevant industry standards, including NFPA 70E, IEEE, and NERC guidelines, prioritizing safety during high-risk field operations.
• Partner with cybersecurity teams to implement control system patching, configuration management, and hardware lifecycle refresh activities during commissioning phases.
• Maintain enterprise automation configuration management, backups, version control, and compliance documentation using systems such as Asset Centre or equivalent platforms.
• Evaluate vendor equipment performance to support the Approved Manufacturer List (AML) and integrate field lessons learned into future asset deployment standards.
• Facilitate knowledge transfer and operational readiness by supporting operator training programs and finalizing turnover documentation packages.

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Minimum of eight (8) years of progressive experience in power generation, energy infrastructure, industrial automation, or system commissioning.
• Advanced technical proficiency in Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), Distributed Control Systems (DCS), SCADA, and HMI architectures.
• Demonstrated experience with industrial communication protocols, including Modbus, DNP3, and IEC 61850.
• Practical experience managing commissioning workflows, system turnover documentation, redline validation, and control system configuration tracking.
• Ability to work a 12-hour, 7-day on/off rotating shift schedule, including occasional nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Physical capability to lift up to 50 lbs, perform team lifts, stand, walk, climb, bend, and work in confined spaces, elevated areas, or extreme ambient temperatures.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a closely related technical field.
• Expertise in enterprise automation version control software (e.g., Factory Talk Asset Centre).
• Formal certification or training in industrial electrical safety standards (e.g., NFPA 70E).
• Work Schedule: 12-Hour Rotating Shift (7 Days On / 7 Days Off; includes potential night and holiday coverage).
• Work Location: On-site / Field Infrastructure Facilities (Requires physical presence in varied industrial environments).
• Position Type: Full-Time Direct / Commissioning Support Operations.