An Automation Engineer develops and implements testing strategies and toolsets with the goal of increasing process automation. Establishes appropriate measures to validate and report on software quality. Designs and implements test automation to improve system reliability and stability. Designs and supports frameworks for test infrastructure. Provides automation expertise and mentoring.
This position is located at our TSM Menoken location in Menoken, ND. Provide technical expertise in networking, SCADA systems, and industrial automation. Assists SCADA Engineers and Relay Protection Engineers in maintaining and improving system reliability, as well as support standardization efforts across designs and configurations.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Configure, program, troubleshoot, and maintain SCADA systems, RTUs, industrial networks, and related infrastructure to ensure reliable operations. Provide technical support for system issues, including field troubleshooting, outage response, and restoration efforts. Support system integration, commissioning, testing, and diagnostics in collaboration with SCADA, relay protection, engineering, and operations teams. Perform system health monitoring, firmware upgrades, security patching, and alarm/event analysis to identify root causes and implement corrective actions. Develop, maintain, and standardize system designs, documentation, configurations, and operating procedures to ensure consistency and reliability. Participate in design reviews and recommend improvements to network and SCADA architecture. Train field personnel and operators on system functionality, troubleshooting, and best practices. Ensure cybersecurity and regulatory compliance, including adherence to NERC CIP, PRC, and FAC standards and company policies. Perform other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Associate's degree in engineering technology or related discipline; and 4 years of experience in networking, SCADA systems, and industrial automation. A valid driver's license. Travel up to 25%. Ability to work nights and weekends as needed, including on-call responsibilities and after-hours troubleshooting support. This position is identified as a Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) related position, which may allow physical and/or logical access to Bulk Electric System (BES) cyber related assets or systems. This position may allow access to privileged information relating to such assets or systems. This position will be required to strictly adhere to all Basin Electric policies, procedures, and programs applicable to the Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) requirements.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Strong understanding of SCADA architecture and Pi Vision/Asset Frameworks. Knowledge of information technology infrastructure, information security, compliance controls, TCP/IP protocols, Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, firewalls, and other networking devices/tools.
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS
This position requires frequent sitting; and occasional standing, walking, bending, climbing, kneeling, reaching, crawling, use of keyboard/computer, pushing/pulling up to 100 pounds, and lifting/carrying up to 50 pounds. Requires finger dexterity, good hearing, and color vision, and the ability to perform close work. Occasionally works in conditions of dirt/dust, fumes, chemicals, extreme heat and cold, vibration, noise, poor ventilation, electrical risks, and confined areas. May be required to occasionally work at heights up to 50 feet, which requires the use of safety equipment, including a harness, in accordance with
ANSI Z359
standards. Equipment operated includes computers, various control devices, electrical test equipment, and normal shop tools.
KEY SKILLS
Proficient in programming and troubleshooting network switches and RTU configurations. Ability to develop and analyze plans, procedures, reports, and goals; present information to others; and work under stress to complete projects within deadlines. Good verbal and written communication skills. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to prioritize tasks and delegate when appropriate. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite. Applicants interested in this opening should go to careers.basinelectric.com to apply. Employees must apply through Careers in SAP SuccessFactors. Basin Electric/Dakota Gasification is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer regarding race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, and veterans status.
