SCADA Engineer

Nature of Work
This position is responsible for providing technical management of the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems (SCADA) utilized by the electric and water utilities, interfacing with Operations and Technical support Staff.  Primary emphasis of this position includes, but not limited to, implementation and modification of SCADA systems and supporting applications to ensure proper operational performance, security, and NERC Compliance through proper NERC Compliance documentation for SCADA architecture, processes and system changes.  


The work below is representative of the scope of work performed within this job classification. Individual job duties will vary based on work assignment or location.

*SCADA Function Support:
Maintenance of the electric and water SCADA system for monitoring, control, user interface, data links and related applications.  Verify the integrity of all functions impacted by changes.  Troubleshoot and correct issues with definitions and communications protocols.

• Ensure NERC Compliance of the SCADA system through proper documentation of operational performance, security, architecture, processes and system changes. 
• Create, review, apply, and maintain NERC policies, procedures, and evidence. 
• Perform project management within the SCADA environment, for ongoing projects with System Operations, Water Operations, Engineering, Technical Services, Information Services and other utility departments.
• Update the SCADA system's monitoring, control, and user interface and verify the integrity of all functions impacted by changes. 
• Evaluate solution options and provide guidance on how to effectively implement new automation. 
• Coordinate and validate system-level support, performance, and life cycle updates with Information Services for SCADA servers, firewalls, switches, and workstations. 
• Provide timely support and coordination with other support staff and impacted parties. 
• Develop and maintain software to automate unique operations functions, reports and data transfers required by operations users. 
• Design, maintain, program, and validate substation RTU's, PLC’s, Data Concentrators, and related communication protocols. 
• Provide solution advice, analytical reporting and other operations support related to electric operations.  Utilize operations data and operational knowledge gained in support of SCADA and other applications. 
• Provide instruction and training for Operations staff.  Maintain technical and user documentation.
  

*Mission Critical Support: Maintain and recover the reliable operation of assigned SCADA applications and computer systems that are used to operate mission critical functions.

• Maintain technical knowledge of diagnostic and recovery procedures. 
• Support high availability and disaster recovery solutions for mission critical functions. 
• Conduct maintenance and support activities in a manner that maximizes the availability of critical functions. 
• Protect the integrity and security of data, controls, applications, systems and networks, in compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements and RPU policies.
• Proficiency in SCADA Communication network system design, maintenance, programming, reliability, and performance protocols security. 
• Proficiency in SCADA communications over cable (wired) networks, topologies, media (copper, fiber) network device configuration, network diagnostics, network management tools and software.
• Proficiency with multiple network protocols (DNP3.0, Ethernet/IP, DirectNET, ICCP) is a plus.

Other Duties

• Attend courses, seminars, and meetings to maintain/attain expertise in job functions. 
• Perform other duties as assigned or necessary, including projects for other divisions.

*ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONSEducation and Experience
A Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or Information Systems, from an accredited four-year college or university AND 3 years of full-time employment experience maintaining a SCADA system for an electrical utility.

Licenses and/or Certifications
Valid driver's license

Desirable Qualifications
Electrical Engineer
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of: SCADA applications, systems, programming and troubleshooting; SCADA architecture, one line diagrams, and CIP Evidence creating and maintenance; NERC CIP policies and procedures as related to SCADA systems; operations, services, and activities of an electric and water utility; practices of complex project management and administration; the electric and water utility industry; methods, materials, and techniques used in SCADA engineering projects including those used in the design and construction of development projects; methods and techniques of engineering plan review and analysis.

Skill in: using a computer while working with word processing, spreadsheet, database and engineering analysis software; managing diverse projects and priorities simultaneously; working collaboratively with technicians, management, consultants, contractors, and internal customers; defining, organizing, interpreting and sharing technical electrical information.

Ability to: to determine and organize complex project/support tasks with minimal supervision; work effectively both independently and as a member of a team; Strong attention to detail with consistent accuracy and success in controlling errors; configuration and maintenance of SCADA and associated application solutions; application programming, customizing databases, and system scripting; system administration of SCADA operating systems, programming, and databases; network support for  configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of LAN/WAN equipment and network security devices; project leadership; SCADA protocol analysis; lead, organize, and review the work of staff; interpret, explain, and enforce department policies and procedures; review engineering plans, specifications, and estimates for projects; perform highly complex technical research and solve application problems; conduct comprehensive SCADA application studies and prepare reports and recommendations; coordinate and monitor the work of contractors and/or consultants performing SCADA activities; serve as the project manager on one or more complex projects; maintain detailed project management records and documentation; adapt to changing technologies and learn functionality of new equipment and systems; prepare and present clear, concise and accurate oral and written technical and narrative reports;
 
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CRITERIA
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the following represents the physical and environmental demands for this position. The employee must be able to perform the essential functions with or without accommodation.

In consideration of the overall amount of physical effort required to perform this position, the work is best described as Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally and all other sedentary criteria are met.

Physical demands that may be required continuously (2/3 or more of the time), frequently (1/3 to 2/3 of the time), and occasionally (up to 1/3 of the time) are noted below:

Continuous demands: Standing, Sitting, Walking, Fine Dexterity
Frequent demands: Lifting, Handling, Reaching, Carrying
Occasional demands: Pushing/Pulling, Kneeling, Crouching, Bending

Sensory requirements necessary in the performance of the essential functions of this position include: sight, hearing and touch.

Environmental conditions
Work is primarily performed in an office setting, however inspections of project sites are occasionally required.

Salary : $95,595 - $140,582