Position: Automation Field Engineer

Schedule: 14/14 Rotating

Location: Kermit TX

Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, 401K and more

The Automation Field Engineer serves as the critical link between engineering design and field execution by implementing, commissioning, and optimizing automation systems across oil and gas facilities. This role is responsible for executing approved automation designs through programming, installation support, testing, startup, and troubleshooting activities while ensuring compliance with company standards, safety requirements, and operational objectives.

The ideal candidate combines strong technical expertise with hands-on field experience and thrives in fast-paced operating environments.

Key Responsibilities Automation Implementation & Commissioning

• Develop, program, test, and commission PLCs, RTUs, and HMIs in accordance with engineering standards and project requirements.
• Execute field installation, startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting of automation and control systems.
• Perform loop checks, functional testing, and startup validation activities to ensure system readiness and reliability.
• Support automation engineering design initiatives and continuous improvement efforts.

Instrumentation & Controls

• Install, calibrate, and troubleshoot field instrumentation, including transmitters, switches, control valves, and analyzers.
• Troubleshoot and resolve control system issues under live operating conditions.
• Support and optimize automation systems to improve operational performance and reliability.
• Ensure automation systems comply with alarm management and operational standards.

Communications & Networking

• Configure and troubleshoot industrial communication networks, including:
• Ethernet/IP
• Modbus
• Serial communications
• Radio systems
• Cellular networks
• Satellite communications
• Support connectivity and communications between field automation assets and control systems.

Electrical & Technical Support

• Troubleshoot and support low-voltage power systems (480V and below) associated with automation equipment.
• Coordinate with electrical personnel and contractors as needed to resolve equipment issues.
• Review, redline, and update engineering documentation, including:
• P&IDs
• Cause and Effect matrices
• Wiring diagrams
• Control documentation

Collaboration & Project Execution

• Partner closely with Automation Engineering, Construction, Operations, and third-party vendors to ensure successful project execution.
• Support operations teams with system optimization, issue resolution, and end-user training.
• Participate in project tracking, reporting, and lessons learned activities.
• Support evaluations and implementation of new automation technologies.
• Maintain effective communication with internal stakeholders, field personnel, and external vendors.

Safety & Compliance

• Promote and uphold a strong safety culture across all activities.
• Ensure all work is performed in compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain compliance with Management of Change (MOC) and Pre-Startup Safety Review (PSSR) processes.
• Adhere to applicable industry standards, including API, NEC, and ISA requirements.

Required QualificationsEducation

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in oil and gas automation.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in field commissioning, startup, or controls engineering roles.
• Proven experience supporting field implementation and commissioning activities.

Technical Skills

• Advanced proficiency with Allen-Bradley PLC platforms, including PlantPAx systems.
• Advanced experience programming and troubleshooting PLCs and RTUs.
• Strong HMI development experience using FactoryTalk View SE and ME.
• Demonstrated expertise performing:
• Loop checks
• Functional testing
• Startup validation
• System commissioning
• Strong troubleshooting capabilities across control systems, instrumentation, and industrial networks.
• Working knowledge of oil and gas production processes and facility operations.
• Experience with industrial communication protocols and networks, including Ethernet/IP, Modbus, serial, and wireless systems.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and automation software tools.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to work effectively in field environments and remote locations.
• Willingness to travel as business needs require.
• Ability to participate in on-call rotations and work extended hours during commissioning and startup activities.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across engineering, operations, and field teams.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and perform effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Grand Isle Shipyard (GIS) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Pay: $95.00 - $100.00 per hour

Application Question(s):

• How many years of experience developing HMIs using FactoryTalk View SE/ME?

Experience:

• O&G Automation: 5 years (Required)
• commissioning or controls engineering: 2 years (Required)
• Allen-Bradley PLCs: 5 years (Preferred)
• PlantPAx systems: 5 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person