Process Controls Engineer

J.R. Simplot Company - Pocatello, ID

Full-time

Pocatello, ID

Chemical Manufacturing

About the position

The J.R. Simplot Company is a diverse, privately held organization with deep roots in agriculture and agriculture-related businesses. This role is crucial in supporting the production efforts of the company by providing technical support to the plant operating and maintenance departments. The position focuses on DCS/PLC/HMI facility systems, particularly emphasizing the design, programming, and troubleshooting of Siemens PCS7 systems. The successful candidate will be responsible for continuous process improvements by leveraging existing process control applications and implementing ongoing upgrades to the facility's automation systems. This includes supporting the process control aspects of capital improvement and maintenance projects, providing design and programming support, and coordinating outside services related to process controls. Additionally, the role involves performing periodic DCS maintenance duties to ensure long-term system reliability and managing small projects, which may include supervising contractors and plant maintenance during equipment commissioning. As a team member in process controls, the individual will work on developing strategies to keep the facility updated with appropriate control technologies. Sharing knowledge with other engineers, operators, and maintenance personnel is essential to enhance their skills and support the facility effectively. Participation in the Process Safety Management (PSM) program is also required, including involvement in Process Hazard Analysis (PHAs) and Management of Change (MOC) processes. A working knowledge of various regulations and standards, including OSHA, NFPA, NEC, ISO, and IEC, is necessary. The role may require additional hours, including weekends, to ensure project completion or oversight.

Responsibilities

• Continuous process improvements by leveraging existing process control applications and ongoing upgrades to existing automation throughout the facility.
• Support the process control portion of capital improvement and maintenance projects by providing design, programming, startup support, and coordination of outside services as they relate to process controls.
• Perform periodic DCS maintenance duties as needed to ensure long-term system reliability.
• Project management of small projects, which can include supervision of contractors and plant maintenance associated with equipment commissioning.
• As a team member of process controls, work on the development of strategies that keep the facility current with appropriate control technologies.
• Share knowledge with other engineers, operators, and maintenance personnel to develop their skills for better facility support.
• Participate in the Process Safety Management (PSM) program, including participation in Process Hazard Analysis (PHAs) and Management of Change (MOC) processes.

Requirements

• B.S. in Engineering, with a concentration in Electrical or Electrical Controls preferred.
• 5+ years of relevant work experience.
• Proficient with at least one brand of PLC or DCS system; special consideration for candidates with Siemens PCS7 experience.
• Basic understanding of Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS) and their Safety Integrity Level (SIL) assignments.
• Experience in the design of control systems and development of electrical and motor elementary drawings, loop sheets, and P&IDs.
• Knowledge of various process control networks.