Instrumentation & Controls Engineer - Renewable Energy

Firstlight Power - Northfield, MA

Full-time - Mid Level

Hybrid - Northfield, MA

101-250 employees

Utilities

About the position

The Instrumentation & Controls Engineer at FirstLight Power is responsible for maintaining and enhancing network and control systems that facilitate the effective operation and maintenance of plant equipment. This hybrid role involves working primarily in Northfield, MA, with occasional travel to other FirstLight assets. The engineer will support instrumentation, troubleshoot systems, ensure cybersecurity compliance, and manage capital projects, all while contributing to the company's mission of accelerating the decarbonization of the electric grid.

Responsibilities

• Lead and participate in the daily maintenance, management, and modification of software logics and modules for operational computer systems including PLCs, SCADA, and RTUs.
• Provide technical support for daily maintenance and troubleshooting of control systems to ensure continued operation of plant equipment.
• Understand system operating principles to effectively troubleshoot, modify, monitor, and maintain automation and data collection systems.
• Maintain existing operations computer systems and develop new systems to accommodate changes in methodologies and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain and improve existing real-time operation systems and security access control databases.
• Develop procedures for effective operation and disaster recovery for SCADA and network applications systems.
• Analyze and resolve hardware and software problems involving instrumentation and network communications.
• Integrate, install, and test controls and network systems according to generation station standards.
• Revise existing ladder logics and systems configurations to correct deficiencies and conduct tests to ensure correct operation.
• Assist with development of plans for real-time operating systems and security upgrades.
• Maintain and review data and reports for cybersecurity compliance matters.
• Prepare technical specifications and budget proposals for hardware and software acquisitions.
• Coordinate with vendors as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science or similar.
• 3+ years' experience related to SCADA/EMS, PLC, DCS, or instrumentation and control systems engineering.
• 3+ years' experience with design, implementation, and/or maintenance of instrumentation and control systems in a production environment.
• Experience with GE Fanuc and Allen Bradley PLCs is preferred.
• Experience with administration of Aveva PI systems is preferred.
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD, Wonderware products, and programming languages is desired.
• Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of debugging methods.
• Knowledge of NERC, FERC regulations, and ISO-NE is a plus.
• Working knowledge of basic electrical wiring techniques and test equipment.
• Experience in responding to changes in generation station operating requirements.
• Experience in building and maintaining computer networks is a plus.
• Strong initiative, analytical skills, and project management abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with cybersecurity compliance matters.
• Familiarity with renewable energy technologies and systems.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and Disability Insurance
• Paid Parental Leave
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Mental Health Care
• 401(k) with Employer Matching
• Flexible Spending Account
• Health Savings Account
• Annual Performance Incentive Plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Generous Paid Time Off Plan
• Paid Holidays
• Professional Development
• Employee Referral Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Charitable Matching Program & Employer Sponsored Volunteer Program