Senior Automation Technician

Senior Automation Technician

Department: Engineering

Reports to: Engineering Manager

Start Date: Immediately

Location:  Based in San Antonio with Travel to West Texas as needed.

Role Overview: Automation Technicians are pivotal at Strata Innovative Solutions, tasked with ensuring the highest standard of service delivery to our esteemed clients in the oil and gas industry. This position demands a professional with a comprehensive skill set in troubleshooting and resolving intricate issues in Automation, Electrical, Instrumentation, and Communication projects. The ideal candidate will bring experience and a proactive and analytical approach to problem-solving to maintain the optimal performance of sophisticated systems.

Senior Automation Technician Key Responsibilities:

• Installation and Configuration: Install, configure, and test automation hardware and software across various operations in the field and within processing facilities – including PLCs, flow computers, and communications equipment.

• Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Perform routine maintenance checks and troubleshooting on automated systems to ensure optimal performance. Diagnose and repair faults in instruments, valves, and motor drives, minimizing downtime and maintaining production efficiency.

• System Upgrades and Optimization: Conduct system upgrades to enhance functionality and efficiency. Optimize existing automation processes through modifications in software programming or hardware adjustments.

• Safety and Compliance: Ensure all automation practices adhere to industry safety standards and regulations. Regularly inspect and calibrate safety systems to guarantee operational integrity.

• Data Analysis and Reporting: Monitor system performance data to identify trends and inefficiencies. Prepare and submit detailed reports on system status, incidents, and maintenance activities.

• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are crucial for documenting processes, explaining technical concepts to non-technical staff, and collaborating with other departments.

• Adaptability: Must be flexible and adaptable to the dynamic needs of the oil and gas industry, able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and adjust priorities as needed.

• Technical Proficiency: In-depth knowledge of PLC programming languages (e.g., Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagram, Structured Text) and experience with specific platforms like Allen-Bradley, Schneider Electric, ABB, etc.

• Familiarity with SCADA systems and software, understanding of network architecture, and proficiency in using diagnostic tools and software for system analysis.

• Experience with calibration of field instrumentation (pressure, level, temperature, and flow), and working knowledge of actuation systems, and industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, OPC).

• Ensure QA/QC and Customer Acceptance Testing is completed on all projects

• Work closely with other departments to deliver successful projects

• Manage support center and tracking of calls, issues, and resolutions during the project lifecycle

• On rotation to receive customer calls for support and service calls

• Responsible for managing timesheets, truck inventory, tools, equipment, electronics

• Ability to understand and apply safe work practices

• Other duties as assigned

Senior Automation Technician Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Automation or I&E Technology, or a related field - preferred.

• 5-7 Years Experience with Automation Systems preferred.

• Deep understanding of PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), EFMs (Electronic Flow Measurement) – required.

• Knowledge of instrumentation used in the oil and gas industry for measuring and controlling variables such as pressure, flow, temperature, and level – required.

• Competent in understanding and working with electrical schematics, mechanical diagrams, and the integration of automation systems within various mechanical and electrical components - required.

• Proficiency in automation-related programming languages, such as Ladder Logic, Function Block, or Structured Text – preferred.

• Familiarity with upstream, midstream, and downstream oil and gas operations is preferred.

• Must be customer-centric.

• Demonstrated leadership and technical oversight of junior technicians.

Physical Requirements:

• Frequent use of hand tools, electronic equipment, and machinery is required. Precision and steadiness are essential for handling small components and performing delicate adjustments.

• Must lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Prolonged standing, walking, bending, and kneeling periods.

• Close visual attention is necessary for reading schematics and detailed work on computer screens. Good overall vision, with or without correction, is vital, including accurately distinguishing colors for wiring and safety signals.

• Adequate hearing is necessary for safety reasons, particularly in environments with machinery and equipment where hearing auditory alarms and signals is crucial.

• Technicians may need to access various locations within a facility, including climbing ladders, navigating tight spaces, and working at heights or in confined areas.

• Willingness to work in diverse conditions is necessary, as technicians may be exposed to dust, noise, heat, cold, and outdoor weather conditions.

• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, hard hats, and, in some cases, respirators.

Work Environment:

Team members will encounter a range of work environments, each tailored to the specific demands and nature of individual projects. Candidates should be prepared for and adaptable to the following conditions:

• Industrial and warehouse settings equipped with effective ventilation systems

• Office environments that are well-lit and maintain comfortable temperatures through heating and air conditioning

• Outdoor project exposed to varying and extreme weather conditions, including but not limited to heat, cold, wind, rain, and snow.

About Strata

Founded in 1997, Strata has grown into a powerhouse with a national reputation for its diverse engineering experience. We are a leading systems integrator connecting technologies from production equipment to business systems nationwide. Our services encompass Systems Integration, Automation Engineering and Programming, SCADA systems, Electrical Services, Data Hosting, Powerline, and Panel Fabrication, meeting various industry needs. Recognizing each organization's distinct demands and challenges, we tailor our solutions to drive efficiency and increase productivity – giving our valued clients a competitive edge.

Why Join Us? At Strata, safety is our number one priority, shaping every aspect of our operations and culture. We firmly believe that ensuring the well-being of our employees is fundamental to our collective growth and success. Alongside this commitment to safety, we believe that your growth is our growth. We support your professional development through ongoing education and training opportunities. This commitment is vital to upholding our reputation as industry leaders, which benefits everyone involved—our employees, clients, and the community. You will experience a culture of continuous learning and mutual support, where knowledge is shared freely and achievements are celebrated. Together, we achieve more, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the industry and setting new standards for success.

Salary : $45 - $50