Automation and Controls Specialist/Engineer

Job Description

CDM Smith is seeking a Mid-level to Senior Automation Specialist/Engineer to support our Automation service offerings in Houston, TX. The successful candidate will be a proven self-starter and work to independently develop solutions for automation projects with senior level oversight and guidance and provide mentorship to junior level engineers. This role requires an individual who is passionate about SCADA Design and Programming, Process Control Systems, OT Networks, Instrumentation with a desire to further enhance their skills and our Automation practice.

As a member of our Houston team, this Automation Specialist/Engineer will contribute to CDM Smith's mission by:

Creating basic to moderately complex instrumentation and control system designs by developing Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), control system architectures, network diagrams, specifications and written control descriptions under the supervision of a senior staff member.
Programming, testing, commissioning and training of SCADA systems which includes some, if not all of the following: PLC packages (Rockwell Studio 5000 and Schneider Electric Unity), HMI packages (GE iFIX, Rockwell FactoryTalk, and AVEVA InTouch for System Platform), configuration of SCADA servers, workstations, network and server configuration, wireless communication systems (i.e. cellular, radio, Wi-Fi), and development of SCADA reports (Dream Reports, XL Reporter, or Hach WIMS).
Traveling to client sites for project workshop meetings, control system troubleshooting and commissioning activities.
Preparing control system preliminary design reports (PDRs) under limited supervision.
Reviewing basic to moderately complex level shop drawings consisting of control system components and panel wiring diagrams.
Providing responses to contractor requests for information (RFIs) under limited supervision.
Performing field acceptance testing (FATs) and field inspections to ensure contractor conformance with contract requirements.
Preparing Automation-specific project budgets and construction cost estimates.
Under general supervision, prepares proposal sections and client presentations.
Mentoring junior staff and has ability to adapt to different learning styles.
Performing other duties as required.

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Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree.
5 years of related experience.

Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.

Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in municipal water and wastewater systems highly preferred.
Experience recommending or implementing cybersecurity solutions for firewalls, VPNs, DMZs, and VLAN segmentation.
Experience with design of control systems including development of P&IDs and control system architectures, writing custom project specifications, and developing process control descriptions with input from project team.
Strong communication skills, both verbally and written, with ability to communicate to a technically diverse team and client base that is geographically dispersed.
EIT or PE certification highly preferred.
Strong technical writing skills.
Strong time management skills and ability to multi-task and prioritize assignments to meet schedules and budgets.
Ability to travel to project sites for client meetings, control system troubleshooting, and start-up of control systems primarily within Texas. Some travel throughout the US may also be required occasionally.
Knowledge or experience with applying cybersecurity protocols to the design and/or programming of SCADA systems following industry standards is a plus.

EEO Statement

We attract the best people in the industry, supporting their efforts to learn and grow. We strive to create a challenging and progressive work environment. We provide career opportunities that span a variety of disciplines and geographic locations, with projects that our employees plan, design, build and operate as diverse as the needs of our clients. CDM Smith is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, pregnancy related conditions, childbirth and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression), national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Why CDM Smith?

Check out this video and find out why our team loves to work here!

Join Us! CDM Smith - where amazing career journeys unfold.

Imagine a place committed to offering an unmatched employee experience. Where you work on projects that are meaningful to you. Where you play an active part in shaping your career journey. Where your co-workers are invested in you and your success. Where you are encouraged and supported to do your very best and given the tools and resources to do so. Where it's a priority that the company takes good care of you and your family.

Our employees are the heart of our company. As an employer of choice, our goal is to provide a challenging, progressive and inclusive work environment which fosters personal leadership, career growth and development for every employee. We value passionate individuals who challenge the norm, deliver world-class solutions and bring diverse perspectives. Join our team, and together we will make a difference and change the world.

Skills and Abilities

Strong knowledge of instrumentation, controls and related systems designs.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong knowledge of Microsoft office suite of programs.
Knowledge of 3D and 4D CAD drafting.
Knowledge of control hard-wired circuits, basic loop diagrams, and installation requirements for instrumentation and control systems.
PLC and HMI programming with various vendor packages.

Background Check and Drug Testing Information

CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries (hereafter collectively referred to as "CDM Smith") reserves the right to require background checks including criminal, employment, education, licensure, etc. as well as credit and motor vehicle when applicable for certain positions. In addition, CDM Smith may conduct drug testing for designated positions. Background checks are conducted after an offer of employment has been made in the United States. The timing of when background checks will be conducted on candidates for positions outside the United States will vary based on country statutory law but in no case, will the background check precede an interview. CDM Smith will conduct interviews of qualified individuals prior to requesting a criminal background check, and no job application submitted prior to such interview shall inquire into an applicant's criminal history. If this position is subject to a background check for any convictions related to its responsibilities and requirements, employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history. Criminal history will not automatically disqualify a candidate. In addition, during employment individuals may be required by CDM Smith or a CDM Smith client to successfully complete additional background checks, including motor vehicle record as well as drug testing.