Automation Engineer

About the Role

Kinetik is strategically located in the heart of the Delaware Basin in the Permian, one of the fastest-growing areas for oil and gas development in the world. We provide essential services such as gathering, compression, processing, transportation, and water management to bring natural gas, natural gas liquids, and crude oil to market. Our team is dedicated to delivering the best service and netback for our customers, with a focus on being best-in-class and expanding our assets through greenfield and acquisition opportunities. Kinetik employees bring decades of experience in West Texas, ensuring our customers receive comprehensive support in delivering gas and crude oil production to market.

Responsibilities

• Maintain plant and field control systems to ensure safe and compliant operation of assets.
• Oversee and supervise I&E Technicians and contract personnel in troubleshooting and repairing facility control systems.
• Identify and address malfunctions/failures in equipment or software, taking corrective action for repairs.
• Maintain program records, files, and licenses for logic controllers (PLC’s), control system servers, HMI equipment, and OT networking equipment.
• Perform control system programming and commissioning for new facilities and projects.
• Act as subject matter expert in establishing and evaluating control system standards.
• Collaborate with IT and Measurement departments on field and plant communication network maintenance and design.
• Work with Engineering department personnel on the design and functionality of field and plant control systems.
• Provide cost estimates for budgetary planning related to control system upgrades, projects, software support, and licensing.
• Respond to emergency or urgent issues regarding facility control and communication systems.
• Make recommendations to the Automation Manager for control system improvements.
• Assist in evaluating control system software and hardware support agreements.
• Maintain compliance with all company policies and procedures.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; Associates or higher-level degree preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate with internal and external customers.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Relevant experience and extensive knowledge in programming Allen-Bradley PLC’s, Controllers, Panelview, and Redlion HMIs.
• Relevant experience in programming OT network equipment such as switches and gateways.
• Relevant experience in programming SCADA systems such as Wonderware and Clear SCADA.
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols and standards (Ethernet IP, Modbus, serial communications).
• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and maintain a positive attitude while providing exemplary customer service.
• Ability to work independently and complete assignments within given parameters.

Working Conditions

• Office environment with prolonged periods of sitting and computer work.
• Outdoor work in adverse or extreme weather conditions.
• Frequent driving to field facilities within the assigned region.
• Availability outside normal working hours for business necessity.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to safely perform essential job functions consistent with ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 lbs. occasionally.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver's license with a safe driving record.

Schedule: Monday – Friday, after hours as-needed to support business continuity.