PPL Instrument & Ctrls Eng

CB&I delivers integrated storage and asset‑management solutions that help customers operate safely, reliably, and efficiently across the lifecycle of their facilities. Through our two global business units - Storage Solutions, the world leader in tanks, terminals, and storage systems, and Asset Solutions, a leading provider of operations, management, wells and decommissioning services - we combine technical excellence with execution capability to extend asset life, optimize performance, and maximize value.

The PPL Instrumentation & Controls Engineer role is dedicated to the integration, optimization, and lifecycle support of automated construction, insulation, welding, and non-destructive examination (NDE) equipment within CB&I’s global fleet. The work includes among other things, conceptual studies, cost and planning studies, layouts, design calculations, and development of construction documents. 

CB&I’s Technology groups deliver construction expertise, welding and insulation knowledge, engineering capabilities, and consulting support to project teams, job sites, manufacturing plants, warehouses, facilities, and customers worldwide. Their mission is to solve construction, welding, and insulation challenges across global operations while developing new processes that enhance safety and improve productivity.  The Principal Instrument & Controls Engineer is generally recognized as a subject matter expert within CB&I Storage Solutions for one or more technologies or product lines and will commonly serve as CB&I Storage Solutions industry representative through code committee work or participation in communities of practice. The role directly reports to the Engineering Manager.

• Design, specify, select systems that integrate motors, instrumentation, controls, sensors-actuators, servo motors, gearboxes, drive systems, PLC controllers, motion controllers, encoders, software, HMI interface for standard and bespoke equipment designs.
• Develop system architecture and integration plans that ensure precise coordination between construction operations and motion control.
• Implement feedback systems for real-time multi-axis motion correction in dynamic environments.
• Integrate safety systems, limit switches, and emergency stop circuits for construction equipment.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software teams to ensure seamless integration of all systems.
• Automate transfer of data outputs and inputs between software interfaces.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies.
• Diagnose and resolve issues related to motion control and system communication.
• Optimize motion profiles for speed, accuracy, and repeatability in dynamic environments.
• Ensure all systems comply with relevant safety and electrical standards (e.g., NFPA 79, IEC 60204, OSHA).
• Participate in home office and on-site training of field crews to properly utilize the equipment.
• Lead or support system commissioning, including shop and field testing and calibration of motorized components and validation of motion paths.
• Observe and assess real-time operation of construction equipment at test sites and project locations
• Accurately produce assigned deliverables per applicable design code, company standards and customer drawings and specifications
• Adhere to regulations and bylaws of local professional engineering jurisdictions and code of ethics in protection of the public and the environment.
• Ensure designs and details are safe for field erection and use, with constructability in mind.
• Coordinate with other roles and functions on project team.
• Forecast how long it will take to do a task – commit to definitive deadlines.
• Provide mentoring and knowledge transfer to less experienced engineers.
• Make decisions on project-specific details and advise project team.
• Generate improvement ideas for tools and workflow associated to the role.
• Effectively use document management system.
• Effectively use project team or department collaboration and productivity apps and tools.

• Role is located at CB&I’s Plainfield, IL facility as preference. Travel (25%-50%) to collaborate with CB&I facilities and project field sites in the US and abroad is required.
• Participation in corporate training on construction related topics to understand basic construction processes and CB&I standard erection procedures including equipment related to field construction operations.
• Participation in shop/project training and implementation of novel solutions.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, Controls Engineering, or related discipline., from an accredited school is required.
• 15+ years of experience in product development, motion control engineering, industrial automation, robotics, or mechatronics, with hands on work, commissioning and field deployment experience.
• Advanced verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, LUA, MatLab, Simulink, proprietary equipment languages (such as Rapid, KRL, URScript, INFORM, etc.)
• Soft skills: hands-on, self-starter, proactive, capable of working independently and as part of a team

Organizational Structure and Location

• Organizational level: P4
• Reports to Engineering Manager
• May be temporarily assigned to Project SitesCommon Performance Metrics
• Leadership - Having vision and drive; taking initiative and motivating others; decision maker.
• Quality - Consistent quality of deliverables, e.g. calculations, reports, presentations.
• Efficiency - Meeting deadlines and staying within budget and influencing others to do the same.
• Teamwork - Communicating pertinent information and questions to project team including technical content, workflow, scheduling with advanced written and verbal communication skills.
• Forecasting - Making accurately forecasted commitments and upholding those commitments. Being reliable.
• Priorities - Understanding priorities and working to them accordingly, guiding others to do the same.
• Continuous Improvement - Looking for improvement areas, taking initiative, receptive to new ideas.

• Business presence and polish
• Proactively identifies and solves the complex problems
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Mentally agile and ability to multi-task and manage tight deadlines
• Demonstrated business partnering skills with the ability to influence the organization
• Adaptability and agility to learn and contribute in varying and complex environments
• A mature technical acumen coupled with a drive to achieve results
• Exceptional communication and presentation skill, both written and verbal
• Ability to work and build credibility across the business, up to and including senior management level
• Proactively embraces and promotes the company’s values and culture, including diversity & inclusion and a healthy and safe work environment

Benefits: 

CB&I is proud to offer eligible employees a robust package of benefits, including major medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k)-matching program, FSA/HSA programs, long- and short-term disability options, life insurance, and AD&D. We also offer eligible employees paid holidays and paid time off. Benefits eligibility for permanent positions may vary by full-time or part-time roles, location, or position. 

In accordance with applicable local and state laws or regulations, the compensation listed is the current estimated range for the position. Final offer details and future compensation may be determined by multiple factors, including, but not limited to, geographic location, market compensation data, skills, experience, and other relevant factors. Please discuss any compensation-related questions with your recruiter during the interview process. 

Pay Range 

$128,642- $160,802/Annually