Automation Technician
I / II / III
— New-Build Commissioning (Oil & Gas)
Location:
Fort Berthold Indian Reservation (FBIR), North Dakota —
Field-Based Job Type:
Full-Time —
Level I:
W2 only.
Level II/III:
W2 or 1099 Independent Contractor.
Pay:
Competitive, DOE by level Job Description We're building an automation team to commission new wellsite and facility automation systems across FBIR — from ground-up installs to PLC programming, SCADA integration, and startup. We're hiring across experience levels (Technician I through Lead/III) to build a crew that installs, programs, and reviews control systems on new builds. Placement level is based on experience and demonstrated skill. Key Responsibilities by Level Technician I (Entry, 0-2 yrs) — W2:
- Assist with installation and wiring of instrumentation, transmitters, and control panels.
- Support senior techs with commissioning tasks under direct supervision.
- Perform routine preventative maintenance on RTUs and field equipment. Technician II (Mid, 2-5 yrs) — W2 or 1099:
- Independently install, configure, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and RTUs (Allen-Bradley, Red Lion, Modbus).
- Commission wellsite automation on new builds with minimal supervision.
- Integrate site equipment with host SCADA; troubleshoot radio/cellular/satellite comms.
- Maintain chemical injection and ESD system function. Technician III / Lead (Senior, 5+ yrs) — W2 or 1099:
- Lead new-build commissioning end-to-end; review other techs' PLC programs, HMI configs, and loop tunes before sign-off.
- Manage and mentor junior technicians in the field.
- Maintain as-built records and Management of Change (MOC) documentation.
- Serve as primary technical escalation point for the crew. Qualifications (all levels)
- Familiarity with Allen-Bradley PLC platforms; Red Lion RTU and Modbus experience required at Level II+.
- Understanding of oilfield production equipment — separators, tank batteries, flares.
- Valid driver's license, clean driving record.
- For 1099 applicants (Level II/III only): must provide own truck, tools, and applicable commercial auto and general liability insurance.
- Must pass pre-employment drug screen; subject to random and post-incident testing per company policy (safety-sensitive position).
Physical Requirements Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, work outdoors in extreme temperatures, climb ladders/tank stairs, and stand or kneel for extended periods at wellsite locations. H2S Awareness training provided prior to fieldwork.
Compensation & Benefits Pay:
Competitive, DOE by level. Flexible hiring — steady W2 position or high-yield 1099 contract (Level II/III).
Work Location:
In person