SCADA Specialist at Fernley, City of (NV) – Fernley, Nevada

DEFINITION
Under the direction of the Utilities Engineering Manager, this position diagnoses, repairs, and develops and implements preventive maintenance programs for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system and minimizes unscheduled interruptions. Work closely with engineering, operation, and vendors on all maintenance projects.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
The SCADA Specialist is a skilled journey-level position that performs a variety of skilled work in designing, assembling and installation of automation control cabinets, hardware and software programs. This position oversees testing of new and current systems and identifies discrepancies in information processing and consults with vendor to ensure specific needs and/or conditions are met. The incumbent is responsible for training personnel on the operation of the new systems; providing technical expertise and input in the operations of the SCADA and various other control systems and for the public safety during the performance of daily assignments, planned and emergency situations. Work is performed under limited supervision. The Utility Engineering Manager sets the overall objectives and resources available. The incumbent and Manager work together to develop the deadlines, projects, and work to be completed. The incumbent keeps the Utility Engineering Manager informed of progress, potentially controversial matters, or far-reaching implications. Work is reviewed in terms of feasibility, compatibility with other work, or effectiveness of results.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: (Performance of these functions is the reason the job exists. Employee may not be assigned all duties and assigned job tasks/duties are not limited to the essential functions.)

1. Responsible for SCADA systems of all facilities process controls and operating procedures.
2. Attends training sessions and operators’ meetings.
3. Reviews and understands Operations and Maintenance Manuals, Standard & Emergency Operating Procedures.
4. Perform special projects and produce reports related to the SCADA system.
5. Reports all noted operational deficiencies or violations to the Utility Manager, Foreman, Lead Operator, or Shift Operator immediately.
6. Performs both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance on equipment as directed.
7. Actively support the department and the City’s vision, mission, values, and goals.
8. Performs other related duties and responsibilities as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of:

• General electrical installation and maintenance procedures as it relates to SCADA/Controls
• Work hazards and applicable safety precautions and practices entailed in work activities
• Control, radio, and telemetry system operations, improvements, and maintenance
• PLC’s
• Motor controls and drives
• HMI and supervisory control programming software
• SCADA telemetry and radio modems and software
• General Water and Utility systems
• Applicable laws, codes, regulations, policies, and procedures
• Information technology used for planning, executing, and documenting work
• Equipment and tool safety; and

Skilled in:

• Prioritizing work schedule to maintain several projects in different stages
• Communicating effectively both orally and writing
• Troubleshooting of control systems, motor drive systems, radio telemetry and voice radio equipment, and computer systems
• Programming PLC’s and HMI systems
• Documenting control systems for maintenance and troubleshooting
• Training operators and maintenance personnel on new systems
• Effective use of interpersonal skills in a tactful, patient, and courteous manner in the completion of daily tasks and assignments
• Maintaining records and preparing reports
• Use of cell phone/mobile technology, Windows programs, and web applications
• Installation, configuration, and troubleshooting instrumentation

Ability to:

• Understand programmable controllers with their logic diagrams and programs, and resolve associated problems easily
• Show a high level of initiative and resourcefulness in completing projects and tasks in a timely manner
• Understand, analyze, and convert existing electrical controls systems and recommend upgrades
• Estimate the cost of converting and upgrading systems
• Work with vendors and various construction trades to ensure a project is completed within budget and in a timely manner
• Read, interpret, apply, and explain codes, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and drawings
• Present information in one-on-one and group situations to supervisors, the public, and other employees of the City
• Add, subtract, multiply, and divide; compute fractions, rates, ratios, proportions, percentages, volume, area, circumference, and distance; and draw and interpret graphs, charts, and sketches
• Analyze situations and adopt an effective course of action
• Utilize electronic equipment such as computers, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices
• Learn hardware, software and I.T. tools needed for planning, operating, and documenting work

PHYSICAL DEMANDS (The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. In compliance with applicable disabilities laws, reasonable accommodation may be provided for qualified individuals with a disability who require and request such accommodation. Incumbents and individuals who have been offered employment are encouraged to discuss potential accommodation with the employer.)
Strength, stamina, and dexterity to sit in vehicles operating on rough roads and rough surfaces for short periods of time each day; walk on uneven or slippery surfaces; perform heavy manual tasks using hand tools such as shovels and picks; perform repetitive motions including use of controls with hands and feet; climb up and down ladders to enter confined spaces and other areas; coordination and dexterity to adjust and make minor repairs to equipment; strength to lift and carry containers and equipment weighing up to 90 pounds; visual acuity sufficient to operate equipment and read gauges in a variety of lighting conditions, including bright light, low light, and low visibility conditions; depth perception sufficient to maneuver equipment and determine position of equipment components; ability to hear changes in operation of motors and other equipment; physically demanding work for continuous and lengthy periods of time.

WORKING CONDITIONS
Work in outdoor and indoor environments with intermittent to frequent exposure each day to unpleasant elements such as vibrations, noise, dust, fumes and odors, dampness, raw sewage, noise levels, or extreme weather conditions including heat, rain, snow, cold and wind, and dust. Potential exposure to dangerous chemicals. Occasional work in confined areas. Work is typically performed independently and may be in isolated geographic areas.