See more Collapse

Controls and Automation Engineer

3 months ago

Houston, United States Patterson-UTI Full time
Job Description

Patterson-UTI's Drilling Automation team is a growing group of energetic, passionate individuals working to improve our operations through automation. Engineers in our Technology Group are responsible for the conception, design, development, and maintenance of drilling rig control system(s) software and hardware. The preferred candidate should have an established fundamental knowledge of control system principles, exceptional problem-solving skills, experience with Variable Frequency Drives, industrial communication protocols, and drilling rig equipment. They will be responsible for developing new products, sustaining current rig software applications, and fixing issues that are reported with the systems.

Some example projects that we are developing, testing, and deploying include:
  • Designing drilling advisory systems to improve drilling efficiency
  • Automation of repetitive multistep mechanical tasks in the drilling process such as connections, reaming, and tripping
  • Integration of third-party applications into the control system such as battery energy storage and managed pressure drilling systems
The successful candidate will set high standards of performance for themselves and their projects. Present professional demeanor in written and verbal communications while developing innovative solutions. Demonstrate ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously and adapt to business needs.

This role will work under the direction of the Senior Manager of Controls & Automation.

Detailed Description:
  • Apply exceptional understanding of engineering fundamentals with attention to detail and problem solving skills to complete deliverables of multi-disciplinary backgrounds
  • Responsible for developing control algorithms, PLC software, HMI design/development, system architecture design, and implementation of industrial communication protocols
  • Be proficient in designing, developing, and applying control system theory to develop software for new and existing systems
  • Design and develop drilling applications to improve efficiency and automate drilling processes
  • Be able to understand/translate the functional requirements into a system architecture and develop the best solution for large scale implementation
  • Provide accurate system, loop, block, and network diagrams for new or existing systems
  • Generate design documentation, drawings, operation manuals and related material for system code and hardware
  • Generate work tasks, organize the ordering and delivery of equipment and materials, and oversee the efficient installation and commissioning of software and equipment
  • Work directly with third party contractors, Operations, Technical Services, HSE management, and rig crews to assist with the execution of a wide variety of company goals including, but not limited to, drilling control systems, R&D projects, etc.
  • Provide technical support to field personnel as required to assist with troubleshooting PLC and control system issues
  • Follow a formal process for software change control to ensure that changes are introduced in a controlled and coordinated manner. This process will also include documenting revision management processes and controls.
Job Requirements:
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a team, managing multiple tasks and working on multiple projects simultaneously to meet challenging deadlines
  • Demonstrate clear written and verbal communication skills and the ability to promptly give and follow directions when working with others
  • Demonstrate forward thinking and problem solving skills to deliver quality products that enhance the company's vision and drilling portfolio
  • Ability to safely navigate the rig up yard and shop work sites with occasional walking, climbing, standing, stepping, etc. during normal operating conditions (day/night, outdoor hot/cold weather)
  • Ability to safely navigate drilling rig work sites including regular walking, climbing, standing, stepping, etc. during various weather conditions (day/night, outdoor hot/cold weather)
  • Ability to proficiently use MS Office Suite to develop presentations, correspondence, reports, and schedules (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
  • Physical ability to:
    • Lift and carry 50 pounds independently while walking on uneven surfaces
    • Bend, stoop, kneel, twist, and crawl occasionally during visits to the field and operational work areas
    • Listen for unusual noises that signify equipment and or machinery problems
    • Stay alert and focused including during occasional extended work periods
    • Maintain spatial orientation and awareness to safely move around the work environment with many moving objects including overhead machinery
    • Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all designated times
    • Ability to regularly travel as needed to visit worksites and support business units; may require extended travel to remote locations and/or overnight stay(s) outside normal office area
    • Ability to work on weekends and be on call after hours as needed
Minimum Qualifications:

All Level Requirements:
  • Bachelors degree in an engineering discipline or related field preferably Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Controls and Automation
Controls and Automation Engineer:
  • 3+ years of proven experience with PLC programming and HMI development
Sr. Controls and Automation Engineer:
  • 5+ years of proven experience with PLC programming and HMI development
  • Experience with industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Profinet, CANBUS, OPC UA, etc.)
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in Omron or Siemens PLC programming
  • Proficiency in developing PLC code in ladder logic, structured text, statement list, SFC, etc.
  • Experience in HMI development using Wonderware or equivalent
  • Working knowledge of VFD drives
  • Experience with industrial communications protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Profinet, CANBUS, OPC UA, EtherCAT, etc.)
  • Experience working in a multi-developer environment
  • Working knowledge of equipment used in the drilling industry


Travel: up to 15%

Work Environment

This position requires the person to be able to work in a time sensitive, high visibility role and regularly travel as needed to support business units and to visit work sites. It may also require extended travel to remote locations and/or overnight stay(s) during variable hours. Variable work hours include hours worked on the weekend, on holidays, and hours to travel within and outside of the assigned region. The Engineer must work with an emphasis on planning, multitasking, and prioritization to maximize efficiency of the team. Must be able to work closely with others and manage customer interaction in a professional manner. Ability to safely navigate work sites with occasional walking, climbing, standing, stepping, working at heights, etc., during normal operating conditions (day/night, outdoor hot/cold weather) and while utilizing designated personal protective equipment (PPE).

We have other current jobs related to this field that you can find below

  • Automation Controls Engineer

    2 weeks ago

    Houston, United States Liberty Personnel Services, Inc. Full time

    Process controls automation systems integration firm seeks Automation Controls Engineer and PLC programmer: BSEE Design/implement control systems 2 or more years of experience in automation and systems integration Field start ups AC/DC drives Life Sciences, Mission Critical, Metals, Food & Bev, Consumer Products, Oil & Gas, Parcel and similar process control...

  • The Controls and Automation Engineer

    2 weeks ago

    Houston, United States Mb Solutions Inc Full time

    Negotiable | 29-Mar-2024 to Until Filled (PST) | Houston, TX, USA | Full Time We need your talent, teamwork, and energy to help us achieve great things that inspire people all over the globe. We need you to bring creative ideas and diverse backgrounds to help us envision, shape, and deliver systems that will enable the exploration of space while benefiting...

  • The Controls and Automation Engineer

    2 weeks ago

    Houston, United States Mb Solutions Inc Full time

    We need your talent, teamwork, and energy to help us achieve great things that inspire people all over the globe. We need you to bring creative ideas and diverse backgrounds to help us envision, shape, and deliver systems that will enable the exploration of space while benefiting people here on Earth. We are excited about what we do, and we need you on our...

  • The Controls and Automation Engineer

    3 months ago

    Houston, United States Mb Solutions Inc Full time

    We need your talent, teamwork, and energy to help us achieve great things that inspire people all over the globe. We need you to bring creative ideas and diverse backgrounds to help us envision, shape, and deliver systems that will enable the exploration of space while benefiting people here on Earth. We are excited about what we do, and we need you on our...

  • Lead Automations/Controls Engineer

    4 weeks ago

    Houston, United States Storm4 Full time

    Role: Senior Automation/Controls Engineer Industry: Battery Tech Location: Texas Salary: $150,000+ Responsibilities: Lead and maintain automation and control systems. Provide on-site technical support. Manage internal and third-party teams. Key Duties: Control System Development: Lead projects as the subject matter expert. Collaborate with stakeholders to...

  • The Controls and Automation Engineer

    3 months ago

    Houston, United States MbSolutions Inc Full time

    Job DescriptionJob DescriptionWe need your talent, teamwork, and energy to help us achieve great things that inspire people all over the globe. We need you to bring creative ideas and diverse backgrounds to help us envision, shape, and deliver systems that will enable the exploration of space while benefiting people here on Earth. We are excited about what...

  • Lead Automations/Controls Engineer

    1 week ago

    Houston, United States Storm4 Full time

    ⚡ Role: Senior Automation/Controls Engineer Industry: Battery Tech Location: Texas Salary: $150,000+⚡Responsibilities:Lead and maintain automation and control systems.Provide on-site technical support.Manage internal and third-party teams.⚡Key Duties:Control System Development:Lead projects as the subject matter expert.Collaborate with stakeholders...

  • Lead Automations/Controls Engineer

    4 weeks ago

    Houston, United States Storm4 Full time

    ⚡ Role: Senior Automation/Controls Engineer💼 Industry: Battery Tech🌎 Location: Texas💰 Salary: $150,000+⚡Responsibilities:Lead and maintain automation and control systems.Provide on-site technical support.Manage internal and third-party teams.⚡Key Duties:Control System Development:Lead projects as the subject matter expert.Collaborate with...

  • Senior Automation Controls Engineer

    2 months ago

    Houston, United States ColdStream Energy, LLC Full time

    Senior Automation Controls Engineer serves as a controls and automation SME for Coldstream Energy products. Will serve as main point of contact for Coldstream Energy customers and serves as company liaison with customers on administrative and technical matters for assigned projects. The preferred candidate will have Rockwell Automation Software experience....

  • Senior Automation Controls Engineer

    2 months ago

    Houston, United States ColdStream Energy, LLC Full time

    Senior Automation Controls Engineer serves as a controls and automation SME for Coldstream Energy products. Will serve as main point of contact for Coldstream Energy customers and serves as company liaison with customers on administrative and technical matters for assigned projects. The preferred candidate will have Rockwell Automation Software experience....

  • Lead Controls

    1 week ago

    Houston, United States Storm4 Full time

    ⚡Job Overview⚡ Role: Senior Automation/Controls Engineer💼 Industry: Battery Tech🌎 Location: Texas💰 Salary: $ 150k-170k⚡Responsibilities:Lead and maintain automation and control systems.Provide on-site technical support.Manage internal and third-party teams.⚡Key Duties:Control System Development:Lead projects as the subject matter...

  • Lead Controls

    7 days ago

    Houston, United States Storm4 Full time

    ⚡Job Overview⚡ Role: Senior Automation/Controls Engineer Industry: Battery Tech Location: Texas Salary: $ 150k-170k⚡Responsibilities:Lead and maintain automation and control systems.Provide on-site technical support.Manage internal and third-party teams.⚡Key Duties:Control System Development:Lead projects as the subject matter expert.Collaborate...

  • Entry Level

    4 weeks ago

    Houston, United States Pigler Automation LLC Full time

    Entry Level - Associate Controls Engineer - Houston, TX Founded in 2005, Pigler Automation is an industrial automation company based in Longmont, Colorado. We specialize in control systems integration focused on delivering the best solutions for our customers. We are a Siemens Solutions Partner and support several other systems. Our purpose is to build...

  • Entry Level

    4 weeks ago

    Houston, United States Pigler Automation LLC Full time

    Entry Level - Associate Controls Engineer - Houston, TX Houston, United States | Posted on 04/03/2024 Founded in 2005, Pigler Automation is an industrial automation company based in Longmont, Colorado. We specialize in control systems integration focused on delivering the best solutions for our customers. We are a Siemens Solutions Partner and support...

  • Senior Automation Control Systems Engineer

    2 months ago

    Houston, United States Burrow Global, LLC Full time

    Job DescriptionJob DescriptionBurrow Global Automation is a vendor neutral Automation Systems Integrator who manages and supports all aspects automation projects from concept through to operation, focusing on the energy, specialty chemical and sustainable energy markets. Working closely with our clients, we enable their processes to operate, striving for the...

  • Senior Automation Control Systems Engineer

    3 months ago

    Houston, United States Burrow Global, LLC Full time

    Job DescriptionJob DescriptionBurrow Global Automation is a vendor neutral Automation Systems Integrator who manages and supports all aspects automation projects from concept through to operation, focusing on the energy, specialty chemical and sustainable energy markets. Working closely with our clients, we enable their processes to operate, striving for the...

  • Control Automation Engineer III

    3 months ago

    Houston, United States ELLWOOD Groups Full time

    ** Due to federal contracting requirements, U.S. Citizenship is required Sr. Controls Automation Engineer holds a key position in Plant Engineering Department and ensures that all the maintenance and project activities are carried out in strict accordance with established technical standards with proper consideration to safety, quality and reliability. Plant...

  • Controls Engineer II

    2 weeks ago

    Houston, United States Prime Controls Full time

    If you are a Controls Engineer looking for an opportunity to grow and develop professionally, Prime Controls has an opportunity for you based in our Houston, TX location! Introducing Prime Controls Established in 1991, Prime Controls is a family-owned Systems Integration and I&C Construction firm dedicated to meeting clients' industrial automation and...

  • Automation Engineer

    4 days ago

    Houston, United States Ledgent Technology Full time

    Roth Staffing is looking for a Automation Engineer for our client in Greater Houston, TX. This is an incredible opportunity to work for a world-class organization with a strong corporate culture and competitive pay.Note: This role required travel up to 20% (Travel will mainly be to terminal in Corpus Christi, TX)Job Description:Core Responsibilities...

  • Automation Engineer

    4 days ago

    Houston, United States Ledgent Technology Full time

    Roth Staffing is looking for a Automation Engineer for our client in Greater Houston, TX. This is an incredible opportunity to work for a world-class organization with a strong corporate culture and competitive pay.Note: This role required travel up to 20% (Travel will mainly be to terminal in Corpus Christi, TX)Job Description:Core Responsibilities...