SCADA Technician - Utilities

SCADA Technician

Performs technical work for the operation, performance, and maintenance of the Utilities Department Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, which controls water plants, lift-stations and wells. Performs tasks related to programming, network configuration, testing, calibration, commissioning, and preventive maintenance of SCADA and related instrumentation and control systems under general supervision.

Manage SCADA system equipment, components, and assets. Troubleshoot SCADA networks, instrumentation and control panels under general supervision. Maintain, analyze, and improve network system performance. Improve existing methodologies to ensure proper network system operation and security. Program, install, and test switches, routers, modems and other network equipment. Test and run diagnostics to verify connectivity of equipment. Deploy system patches and firmware updates.

Install, setup and program PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) for both control and process information gathering and reporting. Perform any other needed programming, updates, or diagnostics of the SCADA system. Isolates problems that occur with the SCADA system; resolves problems on SCADA computers; resolves problems on SCADA control software; issues work orders for resolving problems with other SCADA components. Oversee the maintenance of field instruments Develop, and update, equipment databases, software licenses, device applications and configurations.

Develop and implement methods for backing up all systems, including PLCs and servers, to maintain a current library of all custom applications and historical operational data ensuring that all data is retrievable. Maintain technical library, change management, accurate records, documentation, work reports. Modify existing documents and drawings and incorporate red line markups as needed. Advise management of needed technology upgrades and assist in planning for upgrades;
Collect historical information. Provide input and cost information for budgets. Develop specifications for vendors for repairs, upgrades, and new installation work. Manage equipment and software inventory, including spares, and order replacement equipment and software as needed. Maintain warranty information. Train technicians in operation and maintenance of SCADA and PLCs. Train operators in the use of SCADA system. Confer with contractors, operators, mechanics, project engineers and supervisors about SCADA issues.

Respond to and resolve internal customer complaints and issues. Provide documentation as required by others. Follow procurement rules to order parts. Retrofit existing instrumentation and control panels, PLC software. Performs administrative duties by attending various meetings; training employees; completing work orders and answering e-mails. Responds to emergency calls for service on a call out basis and works outside normal working hours as needed.

Associate's degree in electronics, information systems, or related field; and Three (3) years of related experience to include experience with PLC programming, SCADA or DCS programming; and Possess (or obtain within fourteen (14) days of hire) and maintain a valid Florida driver's license.

Effectively communicates with supervisor, employees, other departments, contractors, engineers, companies, vendors, outside agencies, the public, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review the status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems. Accurately and expeditiously receives and delivers messages and information to the appropriate individuals. Ability to prepare accurate and thorough written records and reports. Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions and to complete assigned tasks with minimal supervisory direction.

Ability to understand and quickly and accurately follow brief oral and written instructions on moderately complex matters. Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with Supervisor, other employees, contractors, other departments, other governmental and regulatory agencies, and the general public as needed.

Knowledge of and experience with SCADA and PLC programming Knowledge of industrial control system networking, including switches, routers, and communication protocols. Knowledge of business letter writing and standard formats for typed materials. Ability to create and maintain detailed records. Ability to provide timely and accurate responses to inquiries and requests. Ability to simultaneously and effectively handle multiple tasks, priorities and deadlines.

Ability to maintain regular and punctual attendance.