Hybrid Process Control Programmer bei City of Eugene, OR

About the Department

This position is responsible for designing, implementing, programing, maintaining, and troubleshooting the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and telemetry systems within an Operational Technology (OT) environment for the Wastewater Utility. Utilizing multiple programing languages, this position involves system modification, installation, implementation, testing, troubleshooting, and resolving issues to ensure continuous, reliable, and safe operation of the Distributed Control System (DCS) and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) at all Wastewater Utility Facilities and Pump Stations in the region. The Wastewater Utility provides high quality utility service to the regional community of Eugene, Springfield, and areas of Lane County.

Position Duties

Design, implement, update, and debug programming in SCADA, Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and process control systems. 

Perform skilled programming  on the Wastewater Utility’s SCADA system computers including servers, radio and cellular communication systems.

Provide technical support, troubleshooting, develops solutions and resolves problems for control automation and process networks. 

Create custom calculations, trends, and reports for users of a Water Information Management Solution (WIMS).

Manage the collection and transfer of data to a Process Data Historian. 

Design and develop custom HMIs and Operational Interface Terminal (OIT) graphics.    

Design and implement complex operational control programing on DCS and PLC control platforms, using a variety of programing languages, including proprietary DCS, ladder logic, C/C++, and Visual Basic.

Provide technical support to multiple work teams to troubleshoot and develop solutions for issues relating to control automation, process control systems networks that operate using ethernet TCP/IP, Profibus, Profinet, Serial, and cellular communication protocols. 

Design and develop variables, custom calculations, trends, and reports for users to track and report data using the WIMS software. 

Develop, implement, and maintain policies, procedures, and documentation.

Perform data collection and transfer from multiple process systems to a Process Data Historian. 

Respond to data requests from staff and engineering consultants. 

Collaborate with engineering consultants to integrate new equipment and processes control strategies. 

Write operational training procedures and guides for using the DCS, PLCs, and WIMS. 

Conduct research and make recommendations on products, services, protocols, and emerging technologies and recommend technologies that will increase cost effectiveness, resiliency, performance, and workflow flexibility.

Create and maintain documentation as it relates to network variables, custom calculations, HIM processes, OIT processes, and service records.

Manage protected and confidential proprietary systems related to proprietary computer operating system (SCADA system). Responsibility to protect sensitive systems from unauthorized access, modification, or destruction.

Assist in developing and implementing cybersecurity protocols and procedures for the DCS. 

Represent the utility at design and construction meetings. 

Actively supports and respects diversity in the workplace.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they are able to perform every task in the job description.We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes with relevant transferrable skills from a variety of sources and experiences. 

The City will consider any equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.
  
A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Education: 

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in computer science, computer programing, industrial controller programing, computer systems engineering, control systems engineering, industrial automation engineering or a closely related field.

Experience: 

Three years’ professional-level experience in a SCADA and OT environment or similar industrial utility-service environment.

Additional Requirements:

Must pass a criminal background and driving records check.

Possession of or ability to obtain, and maintain an appropriate, valid Oregon Driver's License (Oregon law requires that an out-of-state license holder must obtain a valid Oregon license (with appropriate endorsements) within 30 days of becoming domiciled in the state (ORS 803.355))

Knowledge:

Complex operational control programing on a DCS and PLCs, using a variety of programing languages, including proprietary DCS, ladder logic, C/C++, Visual Basic, and Python.

Process control programing theory, methods, and dynamics.

Technical knowledge of DCSs, machine controllers, and PLCs, similar to Allen-Bradley (MicroLogix, CompactLogix, and ControlLogix) and Siemens (TI series, Simantic). 

HMI/OIP graphic standards and development using FactoryTalk, and PanelView.

Process control networks using ethernet TCP/IP, Profibus, and cellular communication protocols, along with hardwire 4-20 mA signals. 

Process control information system hardware and software.

Client/server application concepts and database design including SQL, VB, and Microsoft Access. 

Computer operations and the concepts of operating systems, system utilities, and applications including Microsoft Office, Mircosoft Excel, and Microsoft Project.

Query and export data using SQL based languages. 

Modern OT environments, including the use of Microsoft Server and Windows desktop machines.

Mathematical calculations.

Operation of industrial instrumentation, including sensors (level, flow, pressure, temperature), transmitters, actuators, etc. 

Skills and Abilities:

Identify problems, develop and analyze a solution, and understand the consequences of a planned solution.

Developing and implementing multiple communication protocols within the Operational Technology (OT) environment.

Creating and configuring data points, operational alarms, and life-safety alarms.

Analyze and develop complex operational control programing on a DCS using proprietary programing language and Python.

Use of PCLs using ladder logic and apply interfaces using C/C++, and Visual Basic. 

Build, test, modify, and tune control loops and algorithms. 

Ability to develop, implement, and maintain Change of Management (COM) for quality control purposes.

Knowledge and understanding of piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&ID) and other relevant engineering drawings.

Read and interpret control narratives to produce control programs that conform to the narrative. 

Research skills to stay updated on products, services, protocols, and emerging technologies relevant to network development, and the ability to recommend cost-effective, resilient, and high-performance solutions.

Serve as a technical support resource to Operation and Maintenance staff to troubleshoot and develop solutions for issues relating to control automation. 

Troubleshooting issues on process control networks operating using ethernet TCP/IP, Profibus, Profinet, Serial, and cellular communication protocols, along with hardwired 4-20 mA signals. 

Excellent coordination and collaboration skills to work with internal/external partners to support projects, initiatives, and cross-agency efforts.

Strong documentation skills to create and maintain records related to network configuration, mapping, processes, standards, and service.

Operate effectively in a team environment. 

Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, other city staff and the public.  

Other Characteristics:
Responsibility: Positions at this level have a frequent need or ability to analyze problems or concepts or make decisions on the information. Positions at this level have frequent, but unique impact on and influence on organization operations, program outcomes, expense or budgetary outcomes, compliance with environmental laws, and protecting the public health and environment. Positions at this level have a high-degree of managing protected and confidential proprietary systems that if compromised, could endanger public health and safety or violate permits, regulations, and laws.  

Independence: Positions at this level are expected to perform with a high degree of independence for both regular work and special project work. This role does not require constant supervision and must manage their own tasks, set priorities, and determine their own methods to achieve objectives.

Other Qualifications

What to Expect from our Selection Process:  Applicants are screened based upon their relevant knowledge, abilities, skills, experience, and training. The selection process varies according to the position and can include such things as screening of supplemental questionnaires, written or skill tests, ability or fitness tests, interviews, and assessment processes. In addition, background investigations and records checks may be required. Some positions also require applicants to have a psychological evaluation and/or physical examination and a drug test prior to employment. Marijuana use is evaluated consistent with current state law regulations. PLEASE NOTE: Once the posting closes, the process can take 4-6 weeks to complete.  

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: The City of Eugene is committed to a respectful work environment. We value the cultural, educational, and life experiences of each employee. We believe that a diverse workforce enables us to deliver culturally responsive services to all members of our community. As part of our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion we desire to welcome, respect, and create a sense of belonging for a wide range of identities and experiences in our workforce. Women, people with disabilities, and persons of color are strongly encouraged to apply.  

The City of Eugene complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Any applicant with a qualified disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request accommodation by contacting an employment coordinator at (541) 682-5061.  

In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, the City of Eugene will request all eligible candidates who accept employment with the City to provide documentation to prove they are eligible for employment in the United States.