Location: Dallas, TX (Main Office)
Relocation Support Available
Position Summary:
We are seeking a seasoned Senior Controls Engineer specializing in Controls, network and IT systems within manufacturing settings. This role focuses on ensuring seamless, secure operations for control systems across various facilities, with responsibilities in network management, server infrastructure, cybersecurity, and technical support. The position involves configuration and continuous monitoring of network components and server environments, providing essential support to maintain system uptime.
Key Responsibilities:
Network & Systems Management:
- Data Flow Optimization: Oversee and enhance Ethernet/IP communication within control systems, ensuring efficient data transfer among system components, including PLCs, HMIs, and connected devices.
- Industrial Networking: Configure and maintain industrial switches, ensuring strong, secure connections. Ensure network security practices, including VLAN segmentation, are consistently upheld.
- Legacy and Modern Systems Integration: Maintain networks for both legacy and modern control systems (such as ControlNet and Device Level Ring technology), documenting network designs and coordinating with IT to ensure secure corporate network integration.
Server & Infrastructure Management:
- Server Environment Oversight: Manage MS Server and VMware infrastructures supporting control systems, provisioning virtual machines, and ensuring reliability for 24/7 operations.
- System Consistency and Availability: Implement and maintain operating system, hardware, and software configurations, ensuring uninterrupted system availability and robust disaster recovery capabilities.
- Patch Management: Coordinate and implement system patches and updates, ensuring compatibility and stability with control components, in partnership with IT and plant teams.
- Data Backup & Recovery: Establish and routinely verify backup processes for all control systems, ensuring quick recovery options in case of system failures.
Control System Security & Access Management:
- Access Oversight: Manage user access across control environments, conducting quarterly audits to maintain secure access levels and complying with cybersecurity protocols.
- Cybersecurity Compliance: Implement and uphold security measures across all control system components, including firmware updates, access permissions, and network security settings.
Technical Support & Collaboration:
- Systems Support: Provide expert-level technical support for control and automation systems, utilizing the HELP Desk System to resolve issues quickly.
- Control System Architecture: Contribute to the design and documentation of control system infrastructure, from control panels to communication protocols.
- Vendor Collaboration: Work with third-party engineers on upgrades and projects, ensuring adherence to operational and security standards.
Required Qualifications:
- Expertise in Control Systems Networking: Hands-on experience with Ethernet/IP communication in manufacturing environments.
- Industrial Switch Configuration: Proficient with industrial networking, especially in configuring managed switches like Cisco Stratix.
- Server & Virtualization Experience: Advanced knowledge of MS Server, VMware environments, and virtual machine management.
- System Design and Maintenance: Skilled in configuring and sustaining server and network systems for high-availability operations.
- PLC and HMI Knowledge: Expertise with Allen Bradley PLCs and HMI, particularly within Wonderware (AVEVA) platforms.
- Technical Skills: Familiarity with Object-Oriented Programming, SQL databases, and other protocols relevant to control systems.
Preferred Background:
- 7+ years in Control Systems Engineering or a related field, with a strong focus on network and server infrastructure.
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a closely related field.
- Proven ability to communicate clearly and work independently or collaboratively.
- Willingness to travel up to 25% for facility and project support.
