Scada Engineer

Job Summary

Working fairly independently, is responsible for IT systems related to Control and Operations of the US critical energy infrastructure systems. These important systems are governed by NERC (National Electrical Reliability Corporation) High-Impact requirements, PHMSA (Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration), NRC (Nuclear Regulatory Commission), FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission), DOT (Department of Transportation), and other state / local requirements. The systems support the safe and reliable operations of the BES (bulk electrical system), electric generation, and electrical / gas distribution systems that feed consumers of various energy sources.

Administers, improves, designs, configures, develops, tests and maintains control system related software including controlling functions, monitoring and situational awareness, and marketing functions. Monitors and mitigates cyber events. May also inspect, test and maintain control system networks including servers, workstations, firewalls, data acquisition systems and peripheral equipment. Manages entire system to support compliance requirements with effective evidence to validate completed work requirements.

Formulates or defines specifications for complex operating software programming applications. Modifies or maintains complex existing applications, using engineering releases and utilities from the manufacturer. Works with applications dealing with the overall operating system, at the highest technical level, on all phases of software systems programming applications. Works with multiple business units, infrastructure, cyber / physical security groups on specific project assignments. Guides and advises less experienced Software Systems Engineers. Is monitored on projects' progress and results. Errors may cause electrical grid / pipeline reliability disruption, delay in operations, safety of personnel and public, environmental exposure, damage to facilities and physical harm, regulatory non-compliance and expense. Manages system to meet or exceed the five 9s reliability model.

Participates in project meetings to establish timeline, work steps, change management, and other critical project items.

Supports 24x7 callout rotations.

Perform other duties as requested or assigned.

• possesses and applies a broad knowledge of principles, practices and procedures to carry out all aspects of the job and able to handle the most complex work and all aspects of the job using wide knowledge of the field and subject matter
• may provide input in setting objectives and policy, identifying critical issues and introducing new concepts
• makes decisions independently in planning, organizing and conducting work assignments
• provides assistance, advice and solutions to co-workers
• identifies and implements better work alternatives and business processes
• What are the top (at least 3 if possible) “must have” skill sets (technical / functional) which are required?

1. Working knowledge of general IT concepts and principles. This includes various technology platforms, computer architectures, databases, operating systems, networking, and cyber security concepts

2. General knowledge and understanding of power systems engineering concepts

3. Experience with building and maintaining large scale databases

4. Experience with establishing connections between SCADA systems and field equipment such as RTUs

5. Experience with establishing connections between controls centers using ICCP

6. Experience with modeling power generation units and creating operator displays within a SCADA system

7. Understanding of SCADA system alarming to support situational awareness and meet market and regulatory requirements.

8. In-depth experience with supporting electric utility SCADA system application software

9. Experience with computer programming languages such as C, C#, Python, etc.

10. Understanding of Enterprise Historians such as PI

11. Ability to work on multiple projects in parallel without compromising quality

1. Familiarity with PJM energy market or equivalent RTOs and associated market policies and regulations

2. Familiarity and past experience with multiple SCADA Generation Management System applications

3. Familiarity with NERC O&P standards and requirements

4. Understanding and knowledge of a variety of traditional and renewable energy assets (Gas, Coal, Hydro, Nuclear, Wind, Solar, Battery)

1. Mission driven – must care about the critical nature of the business we’re in to provide reliable energy to communities

2. Strong level of integrity, self-awareness and accountability

3. Self-starter and agile learner

4. Comfortable working under pressure with tight deadlines and low tolerance for mistakes / errors

5. Works well with different personality types and experienced with collaboration

6. Customer service oriented

7. Good verbal and written communication skills

8. Great organizational and documentation skills

1. Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical and Electronics engineering, Electronics and Communication engineering, or equivalent experience.

3 Years of relevant professional experience can serve as substitution

1. Electric Utility Industry

2. Power Systems Integration or Professional Services Firm

3. Military or Government Agencies