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.