Senior Automation and Controls Engineer

Job Title

Senior Automation and Controls Engineer

CDM Smith is seeking a Senior Automation and Controls Engineer to join our Southern California Automation team. The role involves designing and programming control systems for Water/Wastewater clients, developing specifications, creating Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), and writing comprehensive control descriptions to ensure safe and efficient operation.

• Develop solutions for automation projects under senior oversight.
• Program, test, and commission SCADA systems using PLC packages such as Rockwell Studio 5000 and Schneider Electric Unity, and HMI packages including GE iFix, Rockwell Factory Talk, and AVEVA InTouch.
• Configure SCADA servers, workstations, networks, and wireless communication systems (cellular, radio, Wi‑Fi).
• Develop SCADA reports using Dream Reports, XL Reporter, or Hach WIMS.
• Perform field acceptance testing (FATs) and inspections to ensure contractor conformance to contract requirements.
• Create basic to moderately complex instrumentation and control system designs: develop P&IDs, control system architectures, specifications, and control descriptions.
• Prepare preliminary design reports (PDRs) and review shop drawings of control system components, instrumentation, and panel wiring diagrams.
• Respond to contractor requests for information (RFIs) under limited supervision.
• Independently develop Operations & Maintenance manuals for PLC and HMI programming ranging from basic to highly complex.
• Prepare automation‑specific project budgets and construction cost estimates.
• Prepare proposals and client presentations under senior supervision.
• Travel to project sites for client meetings, support on‑call or as‑needed contracts, and control system startup within the region.
• Perform other duties as required.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related discipline. Professional Engineering (PE) license preferred.
• 7 years of related experience; equivalent additional directly related experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

• Experience with Water/Wastewater I&C projects.
• Experience with in an engineering or construction firm.
• Experience leading teams.

California – Irvine

CDM Smith is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, pregnancy related conditions, childbirth and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression), national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.