Analyst, Electrical & Instrumentation

Job Type:

Plains currently has an opening for a Analyst, Electrical & Instrumentation, in our Operations Technical Services group. Reporting to the Supervisor, Automation & Integration, the successful candidate will maintain, diagnose, troubleshoot, and develop Plains’ controls and automation systems. This is a corporate role with a significant field integration requirement. Our ideal candidate is a technically qualified and motivated self-starter who is willing to share knowledge and cross train with peers for support.

Plains provides a top tier group benefit plan for employees and their eligible dependents, and new employees are eligible to participate on the first day of employment.

Responsibilities:

• Program, update, and modify human machine interfaces (HMIs) and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) as required and prescribed.
• Coordinate with instrumentation and electrical techs to install, configure, commission, troubleshoot, and maintain programmable control processors and SCADA communication equipment.
• Configure enterprise level routers, switches, and firewalls (Cisco, SonicWall, etc.).
• Establish SCADA interface through radios, satellite, and leased lines.
• Communicate problems and undertake or coordinate necessary repairs and maintenance.
• Document and describe common and vendor-supplied software required to perform diagnostics and programming.
• Investigate the feasibility of alternate design approaches and analyze data exchange protocols.
• Identify the impact of program changes on existing software and processes; recommend changes to management/supervision on equipment that controls pipeline operations.
• Work with other industry specialists to determine the most suitable applications and programming technologies.
• Maintain and track changes to existing software and hardware pertaining to SCADA systems.
• Perform and document authorized changes while maintaining system integrity.

Qualifications:

• Associate degree in engineering technology or electrical / technical certification.
• 3 years’ experience in instrumentation and PLC programming.
• Knowledge of electrical theory and operation as well as motor relay equipment.
• Experience diagnosing communications hardware including radio equipment, satellite, and leased circuits.
• Able to reconfigure existing PLCs and work toward programming new installs.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of data communications interfaces and protocols, with thorough understanding of TCP/IP networks.
• Able to articulate Control Center needs associated with aspects of data acquisition in pipeline operations.
• Able to read and interpret electrical schematics and P&IDs.
• Thorough understanding of electronic controls and PLC/SCADA program development.
• Proficient in AC/DC theory with a complete understanding of total electrical wiring including all inputs and outputs to field devices.
• Competent in basic ladder logic and function block diagram programming and troubleshooting.  
• Strong computer skills with knowledge of MS Office tools (Word / Excel and Outlook).
• Good organizational and time-management skills.
• Strong communicator, both written and verbal.
• Able to adapt to a change in work priorities and manage multiple projects with short turnaround times.
  
• Valid US drivers’ license with a clean abstract.
• Cleared criminal history (background) and satisfactory reference checks.
• Compliance with the Company’s drug and alcohol policy including pre-employment screening.
• This position is not eligible for employment-based visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. for the duration of their employment

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