The Electrical, Instrumentation & Controls (E&I) Specialist is a high-level technical role that bridges the
gap between field maintenance and system engineering. This individual is a subject matter expert
responsible for the design, integration, and advanced troubleshooting of complex electrical and
automated control systems within the plant. Unlike a standard technician, the Specialist leads capital
projects, authors technical documentation, and develops PLC/SCADA logic while remaining "hands-on"
for critical plant repairs and commissioning.
Key Characteristics
- Systems Thinking: Ability to design integrated control loops and understand the "big picture" of plant water treatment functions
- Advanced Problem-Solving: Capability to resolve chronic equipment issues through root-cause analysis and logic modifications
- Leadership without Management: Acts as a technical lead for contractors and junior technicians during plant outages and system upgrades
- High-Stakes Decision Quality: Makes critical decisions regarding system architecture and safety protocols to ensure 24/7 operational efficiency
Duties & Responsibilities
- System Design & Integration: Author and modify technical drawings, P&IDs, and electrical schematics for new plant installations or equipment repositioning
- Advanced Programming: Design, program, and configure PLCs, DCS, and HMI systems (primarily Allen-Bradley) to optimize plant processes
- Complex Electrical Work: Execute high-level electrical tasks including wiring, power distribution, and the layout of new metering and signaling devices
- Project Commissioning: Lead the commissioning of new mobile equipment and fixed plant facilities, ensuring all instrumentation meets business and regulatory specifications
- Lifecycle Documentation: Prepare comprehensive system design diagrams, maintenance reports, and "as-built" documentation for the facility
- Safety & Compliance Leadership: Set the standard for OSHA and environmental safety compliance, including the development of spill response and arc flash protocols)
- Emergency Technical Support: Provide expert-level response to plant emergency repairs that exceed the scope of standard technician capabilities
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Preferred:
- Expertise in Control Theory: Deep knowledge of analog/digital integrated circuits and modern electronics technology
- Industrial Networking: Proficiency in configuring communication protocols between field devices, PLCs, and SCADA systems
- Regulatory Mastery: Advanced knowledge of water industry regulations, OSHA standards, and National Electrical Code (NEC)
- Physical Dexterity: Ability to perform physical duties including lifting 50lbs, climbing, and working in various weather conditions at industrial sites
Compensation: $38.00-$40.50