What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Product Development Engineer position at Petrotech Inc?
Position Title: Senior Product Development Engineer
Department: Engineering / Product Development
Reports To: Director of Product Development / Engineering Manager
Location: Houston, TX (preferred) / New Orleans, LA
FLSA Status: Exempt
Date: January 2026
Position Summary
Petrotech Inc., a leader in customized control solutions for turbo and rotating machinery, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Product Development Engineer to drive innovation and support our leadership in the industry. The successful candidate will develop advanced control system solutions, contribute to all phases of product development, and ensure successful project execution. Your expertise in control system design, PLC programming, and engineering analysis will be essential in maintaining our reputation for engineering excellence and delivering reliable, high-performance solutions to our global clients.
Key Responsibilities
Petrotech Inc. has over 50 years of expertise in delivering innovative control solutions for turbo and rotating machinery industries worldwide. We focus on advancing control technologies to improve performance, reliability, and efficiency. With offices in New Orleans, Houston, and Surrey, we are dedicated to engineering excellence and customer success globally.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Petrotech Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
Department: Engineering / Product Development
Reports To: Director of Product Development / Engineering Manager
Location: Houston, TX (preferred) / New Orleans, LA
FLSA Status: Exempt
Date: January 2026
Position Summary
Petrotech Inc., a leader in customized control solutions for turbo and rotating machinery, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Product Development Engineer to drive innovation and support our leadership in the industry. The successful candidate will develop advanced control system solutions, contribute to all phases of product development, and ensure successful project execution. Your expertise in control system design, PLC programming, and engineering analysis will be essential in maintaining our reputation for engineering excellence and delivering reliable, high-performance solutions to our global clients.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop software applications on various Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) platforms utilizing IEC-61131 programming languages such as Structured Text, Function Block Diagrams, and Ladder Logic.
- Configure, program, and test PLC applications to ensure the safe and efficient operation of rotating machinery and process control systems.
- Participate in all phases of the product development lifecycle, including algorithm design, software development, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), and commissioning.
- Utilize engineering simulation tools (e.g., SimSci) and custom tools to evaluate control strategies, performance, and system robustness.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, product management, and field services, to develop tailored control solutions.
- Maintain current knowledge of control system technologies, industry standards, and emerging trends to inform development strategies.
- Support technical documentation, testing procedures, and compliance activities related to control system products.
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Control Systems Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in control system design, PLC/HMI programming, and commissioning within industrial automation, especially for turbo or rotating machinery.
- Proven experience with PLC/PAC programming using IEC-61131 languages (Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagram, Structured Text, etc.) on platforms such as Allen Bradley RS Logix/Studio 5000, Triconex Tri-Station, Schneider Electric EcoStruxure, Siemens Step 7, or Emerson PAC/GE Fanuc Proficy.
- Experience with distributed control systems (DCS) configuration and programming is a plus.
- Strong understanding of control system architecture, PLC programming, and automation hardware.
- Ability to develop and troubleshoot control algorithms and software for complex machinery and process applications.
- Familiarity with engineering simulation tools such as SimSci or equivalent.
- Programming proficiency in text-based languages such as C, HTML, or similar is a plus.
- Ability to interpret and develop technical documentation, schematics, and control logic diagrams.
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage multiple projects concurrently.
- Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Collaborative team player with a proactive approach to project execution.
- Industry certifications in control systems or automation are advantageous.
- Experience with control solutions for turbines, compressors, or other rotating machinery.
- Knowledge of industry standards and best practices related to industrial automation and control systems.
- No direct supervisory responsibilities; however, may lead project teams or coordinate with junior engineers and technicians.
- Ability to travel up to 15% domestically as required for client support, site commissioning, and project meetings.
- Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. (Visa sponsorship is not available for this position).
- Primarily office-based with opportunities for on-site testing, commissioning, and client visits in Houston, TX or New Orleans, LA.
- Competitive base salary commensurate with experience.
- Performance-based incentives and bonuses.
- Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and retirement plans.
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
- Full-time, 8-hour shifts, Monday through Friday, with potential flexibility based on project needs.
Petrotech Inc. has over 50 years of expertise in delivering innovative control solutions for turbo and rotating machinery industries worldwide. We focus on advancing control technologies to improve performance, reliability, and efficiency. With offices in New Orleans, Houston, and Surrey, we are dedicated to engineering excellence and customer success globally.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Petrotech Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.