Automation Manager
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:The Automation Manager oversees the integrity, reliability, and performance of automation and process control equipment associated with natural gas processing facilities, field compression, measurement, and pipeline operations. The Automation Manager plays a key role in the implementation, programming, and troubleshooting of control systems, and works closely with Operations, Engineering, and the Automation & OT team to ensure optimal system performance. This position is responsible for managing automation personnel, supporting strategic initiatives, and maintaining alignment with company standards and operating procedures.
Provides overall oversight and coordination of automation activities to support safe, reliable, and efficient operations across gas plants, field compression, pipelines, and measurement systems
Leads the daily efforts of Automation Specialists, ensuring alignment with operations, engineering, and project execution priorities
Oversees the design, specification, installation, programming, and troubleshooting of automation and process control equipment, including DCS, PLCs, RTUs, and HMI systems
Ensures preventive maintenance and timely repair of automation systems to maximize uptime and reduce total operating costs
Provides direction to Automation Specialists regarding technical problem-solving, project execution, and control system standardization
Partners with operations and engineering teams to support capital project implementation, system upgrades, and controls integration
Evaluates and implements improvements to control logic, instrumentation interfaces, and automation architectures to enhance performance and reliability
Supports compliance with regulatory, cybersecurity, and internal control standards related to automation infrastructure
Maintains documentation and change management records for control logic, automation equipment, and system configurations
Monitors the performance and development of assigned personnel; completes performance reviews and provides coaching as needed
Assesses staffing needs and provides recommendations to the Director of Automation and OT on resource planning and future workforce requirements
Participates in the development of automation-related budgets and supports cost control through effective planning and execution
Responds to callouts and urgent issues as required; may assist hands-on in troubleshooting or support during critical outages
Promotes safe work practices and ensures all automation activities are conducted in accordance with company policies and industry standards
Performs other duties as assigned by the Director of Automation and OT
Education and/or Work Experience Requirements:
Education: High School Diploma or GED
10 + years of related experience in Automation or related field
Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills
Excellent diagnostic and repair skills for complex problems in automation systems
Excellent knowledge of automation host systems
Skillful in reading electronic schematics, identifying components, and understanding their functions
Able to read, program, install and troubleshoot complex PLC programs
Good computer skills
Working Conditions:
Will work in both field and office environment
Office environment involves prolonged periods of sitting and working on a computer.
Field environment may have adverse or extreme weather conditions. May involve walking and standing on rough terrain with uneven and slippery surfaces. The noise level in the work environment is generally quiet to moderate but may regularly require exposure to loud noises from machinery.
Will be required to periodically drive to field locations.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards
Ability to work effectively in all working conditions noted above.
Will require lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling up to 62 lbs. in a safe manner on an occasional basis.
Ability to possess and maintain a valid driver's license to include a safe driving record satisfactory to the company.