Instrumentation and Controls Technician

Instrumentation and Controls Technician

The I&C Technician installs, commissions, troubleshoots and repairs power plant instrumentation, low and medium voltage electrical, and control systems. The newest member of the team must be able to adapt to shifting priorities and tasks, demonstrate a proactive approach to work assignments and possess strong communication and listening skills. Our ideal candidate is someone who has these skills and comes to work with a positive ‘team player’ mindset and enjoys working in a highly collaborative setting.

Instrumentation and Controls Technician Responsibilities:

• Models the mission, vision, values, and culture of the organization
• Performs troubleshooting and maintenance of plant control systems in accordance with established plant and industry guidelines to ensure maximum safety, availability, and reliability of the generating units
• Cooperatively works within I&E and with engineering, maintenance, and operations departments regarding technical issues and procedures, schedules, maintenance items, and equipment status
• Follows formal work process pertaining to maintenance tasks
• Works to maintain management and departmental commitments concerning equipment status, plant efficiency, and unit reliability
• Performs preventative and corrective maintenance of industrial control systems such as: low and medium voltage single and three phase electrical distribution systems up to 35 kV, process, and analytical device calibrations such as switches and transmitters, pneumatic and hydraulic repairs, valve, and damper drives
• Interprets and troubleshoots relay logic and motor controls
• Troubleshoots and maintains computer control systems such as PLC and DCS
• Responsible for leading troubleshooting, maintenance (preventative and corrective) of plant control systems, small to large projects, as well as driving continuous improvement to work processes

Instrumentation and Controls Technician Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to interpret electrical schematics, piping and instrument diagrams, SAMA drawings, and control loops
• Ability to use basic hand tools and test equipment used in the instrumentation and electrical field
• Knowledge of medium voltage switchgear relays and test equipment
• Knowledge of safety principles and policies in an industrial work setting
• Ability to establish work priorities and work with minimal supervision
• Strong computer, analytical and writing skills
• Ability to troubleshoot complex electrical and control problems involving instrumentation, low, and medium voltage electrical equipment
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills with the ability to foster relationships on a regular basis with key stakeholders
• Experience utilizing work management or computerized maintenance management systems
• Proficiency in using Microsoft Office suite on computers in Windows environment

Instrumentation and Controls Technician Required Skills/Qualifications:

• Associate degree in electricity, electronics, or related field; completion of a certified apprenticeship in a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and work experience
• Current valid driver’s license plus ability to remain insurable under a company vehicle liability policy and be subject to random drug screening under DOT requirements as a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) driver
• 10 years of experience working in instrumentation, controls, or electrical systems in a power plant, chemical facility, or other industrial operations environment
• 3+ years of experience in troubleshooting and repair of Emerson Ovation DCS and Allen-Bradley PLC

Instrumentation and Controls Technician Desirable Skills/Qualifications:

• 3+ years of experience in operating/troubleshooting/repairing motor starters, circuit breakers, low/medium voltage switchgear
• Valid State of Colorado journeyman or master electrician license (reciprocity from another state may be considered)
• Valid ISA level 1 or 2 CCST certification

Instrumentation and Controls Technician Working Conditions:

This position works fully onsite at a Colorado Front Range location and is regularly scheduled to work four 10-hour shifts, Monday through Thursday, 6:30 am - 5:00 pm. After-hours and overtime work is scheduled or required on an as-needed basis (e.g., scheduled maintenance, planned outages, emergencies).

This job requires moderate to considerable physical effort that includes working from ladders in awkward positions. Frequent use of light or medium-weight objects (e.g. 25-50 lbs.) and use of medium-weight tools is required. There is marginal to moderate exposure to conditions that are unpredictable and may lead to workplace injury due to exposure to fly ash or working around energized electrical equipment or at heights.

This position is subject to regulation by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)

Instrumentation and Controls Technician Compensation:

Base Wage Range:  $82,000-155,500 annual salary.  Prior work or industry experience as well as job-related education and unique skills will be taken into consideration when setting the wage rate.

*Please note:

$82,000-100,000 is the typical hiring range for most candidates with 1-5 years of experience.

$100,000-123,000 is the range for candidates with 5+ years of controls experience.

The $123,000-155,500 range is for tenured candidates with several years of Ovation knowledge and experience.

Other Variable Compensation: 

Eligible for additional incentive compensation including an annual profit share award and overtime pay.