Automation Specialist

What You'll Be Doing Job Scope:
The Automation Specialist is generally responsible for supervision and technical direction over a team of designers in Power, Innovation, Commissioning. Duties may include performing advanced design work serving as a technical specialist for a complex design assignment. This level requires extensive progressive experience in electrical and instrumentation design and involves utilization of project controls for cost, schedule and quality of projects.

This work will be performed under minimal supervision in Bowling Green, OH.Primary responsibilities will include but not be limited to:

Demonstrate advanced technical expertise in automation systems supporting commissioning, startup, and operations for power and energy infrastructure (e.g., BESS, substations, generation assets)
Apply specialized knowledge to support safe, efficient commissioning and system turnover, including coordination of FAT/SAT activities, systemization, and punch-list closure, while managing costs and field resources

Support development and execution of commissioning plans, procedures, and automation test protocols

Prepare and deliver technical briefings, commissioning readiness reviews, and post-event summaries to project leadership and cross-functional teams

Maintain strong working knowledge of industry standards (NFPA 70E, IEEE, NERC where applicable), commissioning practices, and operational requirements

Interpret and anticipate project risks, integration issues, and system performance gaps, providing solutions to improve reliability, commissioning efficiency, and long-term operability

Collaborate with Engineering, Construction, Operations, and OEMs to:
Ensure compliance with design and operational requirements, Develop corrective action plans, Support operator training and knowledge transfer

Serve as a technical lead and custodian for commissioning-related automation standards, including:
Control system configuration requirements, Startup and shutdown logic validation, Alarm management and SCADA integration, Documentation and turnover packages

Support cybersecurity initiatives, control system patching, and hardware lifecycle/refresh activities during commissioning and operational transition

Contribute to the Approved Manufacturer List (AML) by validating automation equipment performance, compatibility, and field lessons learned

Provide field troubleshooting and real-time support for PLC/DCS/HMI-related issues during energization and startup

Drive continuous improvement across commissioning processes, incorporating lessons learned into future projects

Other duties as assigned

Ideal Background

Education:

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related field is preferred

Experience:

Requires 8 or more years of relevant industrial experience in power generation, energy infrastructure, commissioning, or industrial automation

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Strong organizational and interpersonal skills with safety as the top priority, especially during energization and high-risk commissioning activities

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and standard field reporting tools

Advanced knowledge of enterprise automation systems for configuration management, backups, version control, and compliance

Solid understanding of:
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), Distributed Control Systems (DCS), SCADA systems and HMI interfaces, Communication protocols (Modbus, DNP3, IEC 61850, etc., as applicable)
Experience supporting commissioning workflows, including system turnover packages, redline validation, and documentation tracking

Physical Requirements
12 hour 7-day on/off rotating shifts

Work in a variety of conditions, including extreme temperatures, loud areas, and confined spaces

Lift up to 50 lbs and team-lift heavier loads

Stand, walk, climb, bend, and squat for extended periods

Work at elevated levels using ladders, scaffolding, or lifts with appropriate PPEUse hand tools and mechanical diagnostic equipment

Occasional shiftwork on nights and holidays

Hargrove Culture We work to create an environment founded on trust, personal integrity, and a “team mentality” so that each person understands the…