Automation Specialist – Gas Compressor Systems

What We Are Looking For

The Specialist - Engineer Tech will be based out of Kinder Morgan’s Southern Natural Gas (SNG) Northport Office located at 9001 Energy Lane, Northport, AL 35476. This is a Monday through Friday position with some on‑call responsibilities nights and weekends. Kinder Morgan offers a robust benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, two retirement plans, paid holidays, and paid time off.

Kinder Morgan is one of the largest energy infrastructure companies in North America.

To be considered for our Specialist – Engineer Technician job click on Apply Now to sign in or create an account to upload your resume. This is a great opportunity if you have a strong background in natural gas compression. At Kinder Morgan the title for this position is Specialist – Engineer Tech but similar positions at other companies use the title Automation Specialist or Automation Engineer.

The Specialist‑Engineering Technician supports natural gas compressor stations and automation systems including: industrial gas turbine / centrifugal compressor trains, internal combustion engine / reciprocating compressor packages and ancillary equipment including fans, pumps, air compressors, and cooling towers. Examines, analyzes, troubleshoots, and diagnoses equipment for defects in operation. Specialist‑Engineering Technician works with Automation Engineers in the design and implementation of projects utilizing major DCS, PLC, and Safety System or SCADA control system platforms.

On occasion the Specialist – Engineering Technician will assist Mechanical Maintenance with troubleshooting and repairs. The Specialist – Engineering Technician may work with Environmental Representatives in assessing engine and compressor performance / compliance.

• Troubleshoot and resolve automation and compressor controls issues that cannot be remedied at the local Operations group level.
• Examples of this could include: failed turbine / engine starts, unit trips, and erratic operation of compressors.
• Maintain and troubleshoot turbine and reciprocating engine and PLC code in compressor unit and compressor station controllers as well as ancillary equipment, ESD and safety systems.
• Maintain and troubleshoot compressor station HMI node programs and provide direct support to HMI hardware.
• Provide technical input/assistance at key phases of capital projects (scoping, design review & commissioning).
• Review and implement company standards where applicable in PLC programming and HMI development/programming.
• Maintain and upgrade INSQL / Historian servers.
• Support SCADA data transfer to Gas Control and Historian reporting.
• Support multiple controls platforms including:
  Wonder Ware, RS Panel View, Allen Bradley, GE Fanuc, and Reliance.
• Assist in the establishment/support of automation standards for reporting to Gas Control.
• Support technical training curriculum for Operations Specialists including E&C Technician progression program.
• Provide technical advice and support to Operations Specialists and site leadership the basics of plant operations and troubleshooting.
• Identify opportunities and implement plans for improved performance and reliability of plant systems.
• Analyze and correct equipment failures using established RCFA process such as Apollo, Conger‑Elsa, or Tap‑Root.
• Provide technical advice and support for Third Party Vendors performing specialized work on compressor station systems.
• Provide support to Environmental Representatives and Company or Contract testing group in resolving emissions testing issues.
• Implement solutions and/or corrective actions to resolve issues generated by Third Party Vendor Technical Service Bulletins.
• Successful applicant must be a disciplined, self‑starter who is capable of working with minimal direct supervision.
• Supports the identification and prioritization of capital and O&M improvement projects.
• Regular and predictable attendance.

Associate’s degree in Electronics, Computer, or Engineering Technology with an emphasis on industrial automation, or equivalent relevant experience.

• Incumbent should have at least 5 years of…