Instrumentation & PLC Technician

Overview

Job Title:

Instrumentation & PLC Technician (Hybrid Role)

Location:

Midland, TX

Schedule:

Full-time, rotational schedule: 14 days on, 14 days off
Pay/Salary:
Competitive hourly rate, based on qualifications and experience
Classification:
Non-Exempt, eligible for overtime

We are seeking an experienced Instrumentation & PLC Technician for a hybrid automation and field instrumentation role in Midland, TX
, supporting Saltwater Disposal (SWD) systems and other oilfield automation infrastructure. This position operates on a 14-on/14-off rotational schedule and requires strong working knowledge of Allen-Bradley PLCs
, HMI systems
, and Modbus communication
, along with deep familiarity with oilfield instrumentation used in fluid handling and injection systems.

• Install, calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain a wide range of field instruments including:
  • Pressure transmitters and switches (injection, suction, casing pressure)
  • Level sensors (ultrasonic, guided wave radar, differential pressure)
  • Flow meters (Coriolis, magnetic, turbine for water and oil measurement)
  • Temperature sensors and RTDs
  • Tank level monitoring systems
  • VFDs (Variable Frequency Drives) used in pump control systems
• Perform PLC programming and diagnostics on Allen-Bradley systems including:
  • Control Logix, Compact Logix, Micro Logix platforms using Studio 5000 or RSLogix
  • Modifications for pump control, safety shutdowns, alarm systems, and tank automation
  • Integration of analog/digital I/O modules and remote I/O racks
• Configure, troubleshoot, and maintain HMI interfaces
  , including:
  • Factory Talk View ME/SE, Panel View Plus
  • Display creation for tank levels, pump operation, system pressures, and flow data
• Implement and support Modbus RTU and Modbus TCP communication networks for:
  • RTUs, VFDs, flow meters, chemical pumps, and tank level systems
  • Data acquisition to SCADA systems for remote monitoring and reporting
• Monitor and optimize SWD operations , including:
  • Automated pump control based on tank levels and injection pressures
  • Flow balancing between incoming trucks, produced water pipelines, and injection wells
  • Ensuring environmental and operational compliance with alarms and fail-safe design
• Maintain detailed documentation for:
  • Instrument loop drawings, PLC logic, network topologies, and device addresses
  • Field calibration records, maintenance logs, and firmware/software updates
• Provide field support to troubleshoot equipment failures, communication issues, and control system errors during active 14-day rotations.

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Associate degree or technical certification in Instrumentation, Industrial Automation, or Electrical Technology
• 3+ years of experience with oilfield instrumentation and controls
• Hands‑on experience with:
  • Modbus RTU/TCP , RS485, Ethernet/IP
  • Allen‑Bradley PLCs and Factory Talk HMI software
  • Level/flow/pressure instrumentation in SWD or water management systems
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting P&IDs, loop drawings, ladder logic, and wiring diagrams
• Ability to work independently at remote well sites and disposal facilities

• Experience with SCADA platforms (Ignition, Clear
  
  SCADA, etc.)
• VFD setup and tuning for pump control
• Familiarity with telemetry systems, wireless radios, and cellular RTUs
• Understanding of saltwater disposal regulatory requirements and spill prevention systems

• Must be able to work a rotating schedule of 14 days on, 14 days off that may include nights and weekends during active shifts
• Stable work history
• Must be legally eligible to work in the US. Sponsorship is not available
• Must be able to pass a background check; drug and alcohol screening
• Must have a valid driver’s license with a good driving record
• Must be able to comply with customer site requirements for access/entry
• Must have a TWIC card

• Ability to lift 50 pounds regularly
• See, respond, and report to possible dangerous situations
• Comfortable with heights and able to climb stairs/ladders
• Work in confined spaces
• Operating and driving a vehicle for extended periods of time on possible rough terrain
• Sitting for extended periods. Bending, reaching, kneeling, and use of a step ladder…