Automation & Process Control Leader

Location: Bayport, TX

Travel: None
Job Type: Full-time; On-site

About the role

As an Automation & Process Control Leader, you will play a critical role in ensuring the reliability, performance, and continuous improvement of automation and process control systems across the Bayport facility. You will provide technical leadership for automation projects, oversee Distributed Control System (DCS) infrastructure, and support safe and efficient plant operations through innovative control solutions.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise for automation and process control projects, including both hardware and software systems.
• Design, develop, and implement automation solutions utilizing PLCs, DCS, SCADA, HMI, and related technologies.
• Develop technical specifications, control narratives, system architecture diagrams, and engineering documentation.
• Ensure compliance with applicable engineering standards, industry codes, and company requirements for automation and control systems.
• Specify, evaluate, and source automation equipment, instrumentation, and associated materials.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement appropriate control system safety measures and protocols.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation, controls, and system integration issues.
• Lead automation projects through installation, configuration, commissioning, validation, and final handover.
• Ensure seamless integration of new automation technologies with existing plant systems and operations.
• Program, configure, and optimize control systems to meet operational and process performance objectives.
• Conduct system performance testing, calibration activities, and commissioning validations.
• Manage the maintenance, reliability, and lifecycle planning of DeltaV control system servers, virtual infrastructure, production systems, test environments, and training systems.
• Coordinate with Emerson and other hardware/software vendors to resolve system issues and support upgrades.
• Administer DeltaV user access controls, account audits, and cybersecurity-related system governance activities.
• Lead DCS lifecycle management initiatives, including version upgrades, system enhancements, and technology roadmap planning.
• Identify and implement process optimization and continuous improvement opportunities to improve system performance and operational efficiency.
• Develop maintenance strategies, schedules, procedures, and documentation to support long-term system reliability.
• Provide leadership and direction to the Automation Support Group, balancing workload and supporting operational priorities.
• Conduct Performance and Career Management (PCM) activities, identify high-potential talent, and develop succession plans for team members.
• Prepare and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including specifications, maintenance records, test reports, and user guides.
• Communicate project progress, system performance, and technical recommendations to operations, maintenance, engineering, and leadership stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science.
• 5+ years of experience as an Automation Engineer, Process Control Engineer, or similar role within chemical manufacturing, petrochemical, refining, or specialty chemical environments.
• Experience leading engineering projects from design through construction, commissioning, startup, and operational handover.
• Strong knowledge of automation and process control systems, including PLCs, DCS, SCADA, and HMI platforms.
• Experience programming and configuring automation systems utilizing Ladder Logic, Function Block, Python, C++, or related programming languages.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex automation and control system issues.
• Experience working with DeltaV systems or similar Distributed Control Systems.
• Strong understanding of instrumentation, system integration, process control strategies, and industrial networking.
• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency with engineering and business software including SAP, Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, MATLAB, Simulink, LabVIEW, or similar tools.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to influence decisions, manage priorities, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional engineering certification or recognized industry certification in automation, controls, or process systems.
• Experience administering DeltaV systems, including server infrastructure, lifecycle management, and system upgrades.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity practices for industrial control systems.
• Experience supervising or leading technical teams.
• Familiarity with energy optimization, sustainability initiatives, and advanced process control strategies.

Work Environment

• Working on-site in a manufacturing and process operations environment, with appropriate PPE provided.
• Frequent collaboration with Operations, Maintenance, Reliability, Engineering, and IT teams.
• Utilizing automation software, engineering tools, and digital systems to support plant operations and project execution.
• Supporting control system installations, commissioning activities, troubleshooting efforts, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Participation in audits, training programs, project reviews, and technical workshops.
• Adherence to rigorous safety, cybersecurity, regulatory, and engineering standards.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance-based bonus opportunities
• 401(k) match + Age-Weighted Defined Contribution
• Comprehensive medical, dental & vision coverage
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Paid holidays, vacation, and parental leave
• Flexible work environment
• Learning and development opportunities
• Career and professional growth
• Inclusive culture and community engagement