Senior Controls Engineer

Engineering · San Francisco, United States

Job description

Company Overview

Nitricity is a startup addressing climate change, and we seek your help! We are innovating in an essential chemical industry that supports global food systems. The bedrock of modern agriculture is the production, distribution, and application of the essential nutrients found in fertilizers. However, nitrogen fertilizer is currently made in coal- and gas-fired facilities located hundreds to thousands of miles away from farmers who need it. The $120B industry is responsible for as much as 6% of global CO2eq emissions. Nitricity Inc. has developed a new technology that produces fertilizer using air, water, and renewable electricity (e.g., solar). Growers will have access to a more reliable, low-cost, and environmentally friendly fertilizer supply. We are actively growing our team to help us realize this vision.

Position Overview

Nitricity seeks an experienced Senior Controls Engineer who can deliver innovative automation solutions and design standards. The candidate must be able to conceptualize, detail, and implement control systems for industrial processes and machinery that meet our evolving requirements. This involves the development of a control system architecture, selecting the components to be used, detailing schematic diagrams and system documentation, programming controllers  (PLC, DCS), programming the process visualization (HMI/SCADA), developing databases for archiving/displaying historical system data and implementing/commissioning the control system at our factories.  Knowledge of controller programming languages such as Ladder, Sequential Function Chart, Structured Text, and others is required to achieve the desired results.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design and implement SCADA, PLC, and HMI systems, ensuring efficient operation and user-friendly interfaces.
  • Maintain and troubleshoot SCADA network communications, databases, and industrial control systems.
  • Collaborate with IT, engineering, operations, and external partners to resolve system issues and implement new projects.
  • Perform calibration, troubleshooting, and maintenance of VFDs, motors, and servo systems.
  • Mentor, coach, and trained entry-level control engineers
  • Ensure projects are completed within the quoted scope of work, timing, and budget
  • Complete assigned tasks with minimal direct supervision

Qualifications

  • 10+ years of work experience in SCADA, PLC, industrial electrical wiring, and control systems.
  • Deep knowledge of SCADA application development, Siemens S7, TIA Portal, and equipment commissioning activities is required.
  • In-depth understanding of HMI/SCADA hardware/software platforms such as Inductive Automation Ignition or WinCC OA.
  • Experience in the design of electrical schematics, including power distribution up to 480VAC, control panels, and associated NEC references desired.
  • Proven experience with conveyor systems, electrical controls, ladder logic, P&ID, control, mechatronics, VFDs, motors, servo, and DCS.
  • Experience with OPC Unified Architecture.
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical team members.
  • A proactive approach, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer science, mechanical engineering, or information technology.
  • A travel minimum of 20% may be required domestically for factory commissioning.

Compensation and Benefits

  • $155,000/yr-$170,000/yr 
  • Equity package
  • Medical and dental insurance
  • 3 weeks of paid time off 
  • 7 company holidays
  • 2 floating holidays 
  • 401(k) plan with matching contributions
  • Commuter Benefits

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