Position Summary
The Automation & Controls Engineer develops, tests, deploys, and maintains control logic and software for ERock's power generation and microgrid systems. The role focuses on PLC and RTAC programming, generator controls integration, SCADA/HMI applications, industrial communications, and software tools that improve engineering quality and field execution.
Reporting to the A&C Manager, works with senior controls engineers, Commissioning, Engineering, NOC, O&M, and IT to turn approved design requirements into reliable, documented software. The engineer carries assigned work from requirements and laboratory validation through site deployment, troubleshooting, and turnover.
Requirements
Key Responsibilities
Controls Programming and Software Development
• Develop and maintain PLC, RTAC, and controller logic using Structured Text, Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram, and platform-specific tools as applicable to the assigned system.
• Implement approved sequences for generator start/stop, synchronization, paralleling, load sharing, load management, islanding, utility transfers, and breaker permissives and interlocks.
• Build and maintain software utilities, scripts, and integrations for configuration generation, data validation, diagnostic analysis, test automation, and repeatable deployment using Python, C#, or comparable languages.
• Develop SCADA/HMI graphics, commands, alarms, trends, and diagnostic displays that give operators clear equipment status and actionable fault information.
• Create reusable functions and libraries with clear interfaces, readable code, input validation, error handling, and documented operating limitations.
System Integration and Technical Documentation
• Translate approved control narratives, single-line diagrams, schematics, I/O lists, and network requirements into software designs, point maps, controller configurations, and testable acceptance criteria.
• Integrate generator controllers, GMCs, PLCs, RTACs, meters, protection interfaces, and SCADA using applicable industrial protocols. Verify addressing, scaling, data quality, timestamps, command handshakes, and communications-loss behavior.
• Coordinate protection and operating-sequence changes with Engineering, and network access and cybersecurity requirements with IT. Implement approved changes through established review and release processes.
Testing and Software Quality
• Use version control and peer review to maintain traceable source code, configuration files, release notes, and approved software baselines. Preserve backups and a tested recovery or rollback approach before deployment.
• Develop and execute unit, simulation, integration, and regression tests appropriate to the platform. Validate normal operation, abnormal conditions, interlocks, loss of communications, and restart/recovery behavior.
• Perform laboratory validation and support factory and site acceptance testing (FAT/SAT). Record expected and actual results, resolve defects, and verify corrections before release.
• Maintain software documentation, configuration instructions, test records, as-left files, and turnover packages so other engineers and field personnel can support the installed system.
Field Deployment and Operational Support
• Support commissioning engineers and technicians during software installation, point-to-point checks, functional testing, startup, and integrated system testing. Verify field behavior against approved requirements.
• Troubleshoot logic, communications, controller, and SCADA issues using event logs, trends, diagnostic tools, and controlled testing. Identify root causes and confirm corrective actions with the responsible technical lead.
• Provide remote and onsite support for operational issues affecting NOC, O&M, and Power Generation. Escalate safety-critical issues and changes to operating or protection requirements promptly.
• Communicate progress, dependencies, defects, and schedule risks to the A&C Manager and project team. Convert field lessons into improved code, tools, documentation, and repeatable standards.
• Follow company and customer safety requirements, approved switching and lockout/tagout procedures, and software change control. Perform other responsibilities as directed by supervisor.
Basic Required Qualifications
• Three or more years of relevant experience in controls programming, industrial automation software, or system integration, including hands-on code development, testing, and troubleshooting.
• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, controls engineering, engineering technology, or a related discipline; equivalent demonstrated technical experience may be considered.
• Demonstrated proficiency programming at least one PLC, RTAC, or comparable industrial controller platform, plus practical development experience in Python, C#, or another general-purpose programming language.
• Working knowledge of SCADA/HMI development, industrial Ethernet and TCP/IP networking, and industrial communications such as Modbus TCP/RTU.
• Ability to read electrical/control schematics, interpret sequences of operation and I/O lists, and troubleshoot interactions between software and physical equipment.
• Experience using version control, structured testing, technical documentation, and disciplined software or configuration change management.
• Ability to work independently on assigned tasks, participate in technical reviews, and communicate clearly with engineers, technicians, and operators.
• Ability to travel for laboratory, project, and operational support and accommodate occasional nonstandard schedules. Valid driver's license and ability to meet site access and safety requirements.
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with SEL RTAC/ACSELERATOR RTAC, ComAp, Deep Sea Electronics, or comparable generator and power-management platforms.
• Experience with generator paralleling, microgrid controls, switchgear interfaces, real/reactive power control, or utility-connected and islanded operating modes.
• Experience with DNP3, OPC UA, IEC 61850, industrial data historians, SQL databases, or APIs used to integrate controls and operational data.
• Experience with Git-based workflows, automated testing, simulation, hardware-in-the-loop testing, or repeatable software build and deployment processes.
• Experience with industrial cybersecurity practices, including access control, credential handling, network segmentation, and secure remote support.
• Experience supporting FAT/SAT, commissioning, or troubleshooting at operating generation or other mission-critical industrial facilities.
Work Environment
Work includes office-based software development, laboratory testing, and field support at construction sites and operating generation facilities. Field work may involve outdoor conditions, noise, and work near electrical or rotating equipment, with required PPE and site safety practices.
Benefits
Competitive Pay • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription Drug Insurance • Company-Paid Life Insurance • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) • Health Savings Account (HSA) with a company contribution • Wellness Programs and Incentives • 401(k) Retirement Plan & Company Match • Paid Time Off - Sick & Vacation Time • Paid Holidays
Flexible work schedule, as role requirements permit.
Do you have what it takes to join the ERock team? Send us your cover letter and resume today.
