PURPOSE:

To perform the maintenance and programming of the central control systems (PLC, HMI, etc) and associated equipment to ensure efficient and optimal plant performance.

NATURE AND SCOPE:

As a member of the Buchanan team, this position is involved in the efficient operation of the plant. The Automation Specialist is responsible for:

• Being an active leader in the plant safety program.
• Optimizing and maintaining high level control and automation in a “continuous improvement environment”
• Optimizing and maintaining the servers, software and hardware of the Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC).
• Optimizing and maintaining the plant control networks, ensuring proper utilization and reliability
• Optimizing and maintaining the Human Machine Interface (HMI) working closely with Production, perfecting trends, reporting, control, alarms, and displays
• Facilitating improvements through the implementation of new technology and methods
• Working closely with operators and Supervisors to make control system changes that meet their needs and improve Plant operations. Provide daily support on PLC & HMI related issues, VFD’s, tuning of PIDs, etc. Assist with process engineering studies and routine work. Be capable of performing small studies independently and assist in more major work.
• Managing the entire scope of a project from inception to completion of the field commissioning.
• Performing diagnostics and troubleshooting of field devices, training, and development of maintenance associates.

TECHNICAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree and 5 years of Automation or Controls related experience  (Electrical, Computer, Chemical or other Engineering/Technical degree is an asset), or a minimum of 7 years of Automation or Controls related experience (includes relevant intern, co-op, or basic work experience).
• Technical expertise of various DCS, PLC (Allen Bradley RSLogix 5000 preferred), HMI/SCADA (I-Fix) and other applicable systems. Extensive experience with PLC programming is a must.
• Deep understanding and experience with all components involved in process architecture from end devices to control room servers.
• Knowledge and experience with various control systems architecture (Control Net, Device Net)
• Knowledge and experience with Variable Frequency Drives, Servo Drives.
• Knowledge and experience with various analog sensors and transmitters (pressure, temperature, load cells)
• Knowledge and experience with power distribution systems.
• Proficient at reading and interpreting technical documentation (schematics, loop sheets, manuals, technical bulletins etc.)
• Must be able to work after-hour, weekend and holidays.

NON - TECHNICAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong commitment to safety
• Effective influencer
• Team work
• Well developed analytical skills
• Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal)
• Effective coaching and knowledge transfer skills
• Strong drive and initiative.