Controls Specialist

About the role

The Lead Commissioning tech supports capital projects and implements control system solutions that help clients improve performance and achieve critical operational goals. In this role, you work both independently and as part of multidisciplinary teams to commission basebuild utility systems, optimize control architectures, and ensure high-quality, reliable operation of complex industrial and data center environments. You collaborate closely with engineering design teams, operations technicians, suppliers, and client representatives to deliver accurate, consistent, and technically robust solutions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct system and facility engineering job walk assessments to evaluate readiness, identify issues, and verify installation quality.
• Troubleshoot control system and facility issues and perform root cause failure analysis on assigned projects to prevent recurrence.
• Train suppliers on the owner's commissioning software systems to ensure proper usage and data integrity.
• Provide and manage access for suppliers within the owner's commissioning software systems, maintaining appropriate permissions and controls.
• Interface smoothly with engineering design team members and client representatives to clarify requirements, resolve technical questions, and align on project objectives.
• Program, configure, and commission control systems, including PLCs, HMIs, and building automation systems, to meet design specifications.
• Conduct I/O checkouts and verify proper operation of instrumentation, devices, and control system architectures.
• Read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, P&IDs, and data sheets to guide installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting activities.
• Support large, multi-discipline capital projects involving owners, general contractors, contractors, and system integrators, ensuring cohesive execution of control systems work.
• Generate clear, concise technical reports and deliver group presentations to communicate findings, status updates, and recommendations.
• Apply a proactive, detail-oriented approach to identifying risks, resolving issues, and improving system performance throughout the project lifecycle.

Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in commissioning or construction for instrumentation and controls (I&C) or electrical basebuild systems in the advanced technology sector.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience working with control systems in a data center or similar environment.
• Experience with Rockwell Automation platforms, including PLC-5 and ControlLogix hardware and software.
• Hands-on experience with commissioning activities, PLC programming, building automation systems, and SCADA.
• Proficiency in control systems programming and configuration for industrial and building applications.
• Strong understanding of HVAC, electrical, and building automation systems in large facilities.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, P&IDs, and related engineering documentation.
• Experience conducting I/O checkouts and verifying proper operation of field devices and control hardware.
• Good understanding of Design/Build processes for engineering and construction projects.
• Good understanding of complex process systems architecture and design, including instrumentation, device selection, networking, PLC and I/O architectures, and SCADA.

Work environment

This role is based onsite in Abilene and involves working approximately 50 hours per week to support active projects. You work in data center and advanced industrial facility environments that include HVAC systems, electrical distribution, gas and chemical distribution, mechanical systems, and clean room environmental controls. The position is embedded in a controls and automation practice focused on delivering high-quality system integration and commissioning services for leading companies. You collaborate closely with engineers, technicians, contractors, and system integrators, using modern control platforms such as Rockwell Automation PLCs, building automation systems, and SCADA/BMS solutions. Per diem support is provided for onsite work, and the environment emphasizes technical excellence, teamwork, and opportunities for growth through exposure to large, complex capital projects and industry-leading control system technologies.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $58.00/hr.

Contract position based out of Houston, TX. Fully onsite in Houston, TX. This position is anticipated to close on Aug 18, 2026.