Specialist, Automation & Commissioning

While the position is posted for Independence, KS, this role is also eligible to sit out of our Wichita, KS and Kansas City, KS locations.

Job Overview

The Automation and Commissioning Specialist II is responsible for leading, overseeing, and completing all automation aspects of major capital projects related to the design, development, construction, and execution of natural gas facilities. This position is the technical leader for system specifications, electrical design, PLC programming, electronic flow measurement (EFM), and SCADA for compression, measurement, and storage facilities. The Specialist works independently on projects in varying complexity and see projects through from initial design to in-service. The Specialist is to perform specialized tasks and projects by relying on established guidelines and specifications along with specialize knowledge to effectively carry out project tasks and related work assignments under the direction of senior management.

Company Overview

Since 1904, Southern Star has proudly served as a reliable natural gas transporter to America’s heartland. Southern Star is an innovative, customer-oriented company committed to collaboration in all parts of our business. With over a century of trusted service, we continue to prioritize what sets us apart—our people.

At Southern Star, you’ll find a workplace where your growth matters, your voice is heard, and your contributions are recognized. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take the next big step in your career, Southern Star is the employer of choice where you can make a meaningful impact.

Will you be the next talented individual to join our team?

Benefits Overview

We believe great work deserves great rewards. In exchange for your passion and expertise, we provide a benefits package that supports your well-being and growth in all aspects of life.

• Medical
• Vision
• Dental
• Supplemental Life Insurance
• Dependent Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Wellness Programs
• Service Awards
• Educational Reimbursement
• Fitness Reimbursement
• Holidays
• Paid Time Off
• Parental & Maternity Leave
• 401K

Responsibilities

• Leads and oversees all commissioning aspects of capital projects
• Implementation of control systems and electronic measurement (EFM), programable logic controllers (PLC), human machine interface (HMI) and Scada: Natural Gas related projects Program, modify and audit PLCs and flow computers. Diagnose, test, and debug complex equipment and include recommendations for Measurement/Reliability/Storage and Operations
• Provide design, equipment specifications, development of project scope, estimate, and justifications for capital projects
• Performs checking of engineering drawings and mathematical calculations
• Lead as a subject matter expert in in many other aspects of automation including PLC, DCS, SCADA/HMI, Electrical and Instrumentation design
• Configure and program various automation systems (process control systems, safety instrumented systems, fire and gas systems, and engine control) including development of code, ability to specify hardware and develop/modify graphics
• Maintain knowledge of flow computers, telecommunications equipment, engine and motor controls and state of the art technologies for the purpose of enhancing Company applications
• Audit fab shops and onsite installations to ensure meter skids, gas chromatographs buildings, MCC buildings, PLC panels, engine upgrades, dehydration and compression facilities adhere to company engineering designs and specifications
• Collect and analyze data (e.g., customer design proposals, specifications, and manuals, etc.) to determine feasibility of design and/or application
• Perform optimizations, troubleshooting, and feasibility studies
• Provide specialized support and guidance to technical, operations, and IT personnel to ensure safety and reliability of natural gas compression, measurement, storage, and supporting auxiliary equipment
• Lead in developing and implementing technical standards
• Research and analyze technical data, industry specifications and standards, and vendor manuals to determine feasibility of design and/or application
• Maintain industry standards and regulations as applied by AGA, FCC, NEC, DOT, ANSI, OSHA, and other relevant regulations
• Coach and mentor employees on technical skills and work-related tasks
• Represent management in coordinating activities and communicating technical policies and procedures
• Provide leadership in the development, guidance, and oversight of staff within the Company
• Advise and participate in technical presentations to management
• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• Associates Degree in a relevant technical discipline or equivalent experience with automated control systems to include installing and programming programable logic controllers (PLCs) Human Machine Interface (HMIs), gas measurement, pressure and flow control, and gas quality
• 5 years of experience directly related to natural gas facilities such as: gas measurement, gas quality, pressure and flow control, compressor station maintenance, and control systems
• Ability to read, understand and direct the implementation of project drawings (Electrical and Instrumentation, Piping and Instrument Flow Diagrams (P&ID), Piping Equipment, etc.)
• Understanding of Reciprocating/Turbine Engines, Flow Control and Gas Quality
• Knowledge of operations, maintenance and construction practices relating to pipeline operations
• Demonstrated leadership skills, problem-solving skills, and excellent organizational skills
• Ability to work in a scheduled, structured, deadline-driven environment
• Travel greater than 75%, automobile and plane
• Ability to work extended hours on an as needed basis
• Ability to work overtime with minimal prior notice
• Ability to work in both an open office environment as well as outside in varied weather conditions
• Ability to work independently or provide direction to others and work successfully with individuals through the organization
• Experience communicating data and concepts in a manner understandable to a wide range of individuals from diverse backgrounds
• Valid driver’s license and insurability

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant technical discipline, i.e., Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or Mechanical Engineering with emphasis in Controls or Automation, Engineering
• Technology with emphasis on Communication systems, Electronics, or related field
• 5 years of experience with compressor station maintenance, electronic measurement, communications, PLCs, and SCADA equipment used in natural gas transmission

License and Insurability

A valid driver’s license and insurability under company policy are required.