Job Description
(CSEN)-Control Systems Engineer Apply now »
Date:
Jun 2, 2026 Location:
Birmingham, AL, US, 35222 Company:
Central Alabama Water Job Information Job Title :
Control Systems Engineer Department :
SCADA Reporting Relationship :
Manager-SCADA FLSA Status :
Non-Exempt Grade :
K ($77,521.60-$96,532.80) General Responsibilities:
The Control Systems Engineer is responsible for supporting, maintaining, troubleshooting, programming, and improving industrial control systems and operational technology (OT) infrastructure used throughout the water treatment and distribution systems. This position supports critical utility operations through the design, configuration, programming, monitoring, and maintenance of SCADA, PLC, DCS, telemetry, networking, and related control systems. This role works closely with Operations, Electrical & Mechanical (E&M) personnel, Information Technology (IT), and engineering staff to ensure reliable and secure operation of control systems across treatment facilities, pump stations, and remote sites. Responsibilities include both field and office-based work involving system troubleshooting, programming, commissioning, reporting, and ongoing system improvements. The ideal candidate will have a strong industrial automation background with experience in PLCs, SCADA systems, industrial networking, troubleshooting, and control systems support. Experience in water/wastewater utilities is preferred but not required. Essential Job Functions:
Control Systems & SCADA Support Support, maintain, troubleshoot, and improve SCADA, PLC, DCS, HMI, telemetry, and industrial control systems used throughout the utility system. Design, configure, program, and commission new control system installations and upgrades. Develop and maintain graphical user interfaces (HMI/SCADA graphics), system displays, alarms, trends, and operator controls. Program and troubleshoot PLCs, remote telemetry units (RTUs), industrial radios, and related control equipment. Monitor and support control system operations across treatment facilities, pump stations, remote sites, and distribution system infrastructure. Investigate and resolve control system, communication, and operational issues in both field and office environments. Participate in troubleshooting and support activities during emergency events and system outages. Industrial Networking & OT Infrastructure Support operational technology (OT) infrastructure including industrial networking equipment, firewalls, switches, virtualization platforms, thin clients, and related systems. Assist with OT cybersecurity initiatives and collaborate with IT personnel to maintain secure and reliable system operations. Support communication systems including industrial radio systems, telemetry networks, and future cellular communication systems. Assist with the maintenance and support of Windows Server environments, VMware, Hyper-V, virtual machines, and related infrastructure supporting SCADA and control systems. Programming, Reporting & Data Management Develop and maintain reports, databases, scripts, and automated processes used for operational monitoring, regulatory reporting, and system analysis. Analyze operational trends, system performance, alarms, and historical data to identify issues and recommend improvements. Support and maintain systems related to regulatory reporting and compliance requirements, including treatment and operational reporting systems. Utilize scripting, database, or programming tools to improve efficiency, reporting capabilities, and system functionality. Essential Job Functions Con't Project Support & System Improvements Assist with the design, implementation, testing, and startup of new control systems, panels, instrumentation, and telemetry installations. Coordinate with vendors, contractors, system integrators, Operations personnel, E&M staff, and IT personnel during project execution and troubleshooting activities. Support control panel design, equipment integration, field commissioning, and startup activities. Lead smaller control system projects and assist senior personnel with larger projects and system improvements. Recommend and implement improvements that increase reliability, efficiency, maintainability, and operational awareness. Training, Collaboration & Administrative Duties Provide technical support, mentoring, and training to Operations personnel and other department staff. Assist in developing and maintaining technical documentation, standard operating procedures, and training materials. Support purchasing activities including obtaining quotes, submitting purchase requests, and coordinating equipment orders as needed. Participate in a rotating on-call support schedule and respond to after-hours emergencies as required. Perform all work safely in accordance with established safety policies, procedures, and applicable regulations. Perform other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills Ability to work independently and collaboratively in both field and office environments Ability to manage multiple priorities and respond effectively during emergencies Strong communication and technical documentation skills Understanding of industrial automation and control system principles Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, control schematics, and system documentation Ability to learn and support new technologies and systems Essential Job Functions Con't Education:
Associate degree in Industrial Automation, Electrical Technology, Computer Science, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field preferred. Equivalent combinations of technical training, certifications, and relevant industrial automation or control systems experience may be considered in lieu of formal education requirements. Certifications Valid Driver's License required Industry certifications related to industrial automation, networking, cybersecurity, or control systems are preferred but not required Water treatment certifications are preferred but not required Experience:
Five (5) years of experience in industrial automation, control systems, SCADA systems, PLC programming, industrial networking, or related technical environments preferred. Experience with troubleshooting and supporting industrial control systems in utility, manufacturing, industrial, or infrastructure environments preferred. Experience with the following is preferred: PLC programming and troubleshooting SCADA and HMI systems Industrial networking and communications OT infrastructure and virtualization environments Industrial radio and telemetry systems Windows Server and virtual environments Control system commissioning and startup Regulatory or operational reporting systems OT cybersecurity practices and system hardening Experience with water or wastewater utility operations is preferred but not required. Experience with any of the following platforms or similar technologies is beneficial: Allen-Bradley PLC systems Modicon PLC systems Wonderware / AVEVA platforms Foxboro control systems VMware and Hyper-V environments Industrial firewalls and managed switches Scripting, database, or programming languages used in industrial environments Experience as a systems integrator, industrial controls technician, industrial electrician with PLC experience, or similar industrial automation role is highly desirable Supervision:
None Physical Demands:
Ability to stand, walk, climb, bend, and work in industrial environments for extended periods Ability to use computers, tools, and test equipment Ability to lift and carry equipment consistent with assigned duties Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing Ability to work safely around industrial electrical and mechanical systems Working Environment:
Combination of office, industrial, and field environments Work may involve exposure to treatment plants, pump stations, construction sites, and outdoor conditions Moderate noise levels in office settings and elevated noise levels in industrial environments Participation in a rotating on-call schedule is required Local travel throughout the utility system is required Nearest Major Market:
Birmingham Apply now »
