Automation Project Engineer

VersaTech Automation Services is a leading provider of automation systems and services to the global energy markets. VersaTech provides a full range of automation services including engineering, design, programming, fabrication, testing, installation, commissioning, start-up, and maintenance to a wide variety of control and packaged systems. VersaTech has offices in Houston, Midland, New Orleans, and Africa. Our scope of work includes both onshore and offshore projects, in the US and overseas.

The Automation Project Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, maintaining, and optimizing automation and control systems, as well as managing projects from design through fabrication, testing, commissioning, and start-up. Applications for control and automation systems usually include offshore and onshore oil and gas production facilities, industrial process control & safety, data centers, and gas and liquid transmission. The Automation Project Engineer must ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operation of automation infrastructure including PLCs, SCADA, and instrumentation & communication systems while supporting project and operations teams.

This is an on-site position based at VersaTech?s Houston, Texas office.

This position will report to the Manager of Projects and Engineering. Primary responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Coordinate and report across upper management, drafting, procurement, fabrication, and sales department
• Ensure design compliance with applicable industry and regulatory standards
• Lead the engineering, design, configuration, testing, commissioning and maintenance of automation systems including PLCs, RTUs, HMI/SCADA systems and communication networks.
• Program and configure PLC and HMI systems using a variety of industry-standard hardware and software platforms.
• Develop and maintain control narratives, loop diagrams, P&IDs associated with automation systems, and documentation required for system validation and compliance.
• Troubleshoot, optimize and upgrade existing automation systems to improve reliability, availability, and performance of production and processing facilities.
• Participate in HAZOP and LOPA reviews and ensure automation systems meet safety, environmental and regulatory requirements (including IEC/ISA standards, API practices, OSHA).
• Provide technical support for brownfield modifications and greenfield projects, including vendor oversight, FAT/SAT, site commissioning and start-up support.
• Assist customers with the installation of automation devices such as control panels and instrumentation.
• Provide Technical Support and Guidance to clients in order to suggest improved designs
• Collaborate with Project Engineers and Project Managers for fully integrated packaged systems
• Provide design parameters to the drafting/design department and manage the completion of design
• Manage fabrication activities in accordance with VersaTech?s quality program and project schedule requirements
• Actively support VersaTech?s commitment to a safe work environment by ensuring compliance with all safety policies and procedures
• Interface with customers by providing job progress reports, participating in technical discussions, and managing RFIs and change orders; maintain clear and open communication to meet or exceed customer expectations
• Coordinate with outside vendors, engineering firms, etc., should the need arise
• Travel to remote sites both domestically and internationally for commissioning, start-up, repair and troubleshooting activities
• Oversee project budgets and financial performance, including forecasting, planning, cost tracking, customer billing, and vendor invoice approval
• Other tasks as defined by the Manager of Projects and Engineering