Director - Software & Firmware Development Manager
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced Software & Firmware Development Manager to lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced software, firmware, and intelligent automation solutions for oilfield production operations. This role focuses on SCADA systems, industrial automation, edge computing, and AI/ML applications to optimize production efficiency, enhance reliability, reduce downtime, and ensure safe, compliant operations in upstream oil & gas environments.
The successful candidate will lead cross-functional teams of software engineers, firmware developers, data scientists, and automation specialists. They will drive innovation in real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and intelligent control systems for well management, artificial lift, and production optimization.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership & Team Management: Lead, mentor, and grow a team of software, firmware, and AI/ML engineers. Set technical direction, conduct performance reviews, and foster a culture of innovation, quality, and collaboration.
- SCADA & Automation Development: Oversee the architecture, design, implementation, and maintenance of SCADA systems. Develop and optimize HMI screens, control logic, communication protocols (Modbus, DNP3, OPC UA, MQTT), and data acquisition pipelines for field assets.
- Firmware Development: Manage embedded firmware development for controllers, edge devices, sensors, and IoT hardware in harsh oilfield environments. Ensure real-time performance, reliability, security, and compliance with industry standards.
- AI/ML Integration: Drive the development and deployment of AI/ML models for predictive maintenance, production optimization, anomaly detection, reservoir insights, and automated control. Integrate models into SCADA/automation platforms for edge and cloud inference.
- Project & Product Lifecycle: Lead end-to-end development projects, including requirements gathering, architecture design, agile execution, testing, commissioning, and ongoing support. Manage vendor relationships and third-party integrations.
- System Optimization & Reliability: Ensure high availability, cybersecurity, and scalability of OT/IT systems. Implement data analytics, reporting, and visualization tools to support operational decision-making.
- Compliance & Safety: Ensure all solutions meet regulatory requirements (e.g., API, ISA, IEC standards), cybersecurity best practices (IEC 62443), and company HSE policies. Support field commissioning and troubleshooting as needed.
- Innovation & Strategy: Collaborate with operations, engineering, customers, and sales teams to identify opportunities for digital transformation. Evaluate emerging technologies in automation, IIoT, and generative AI for oilfield applications.
- Budget & Resources: Manage department budget, resource allocation, timelines, and vendor contracts.