Automation Lead Development Engineer - Newton Aycliffe Site

Main role purpose:
The post holder ensures that all operational technologies (OT) on the Newton Aycliffe site function properly, safe (cyber secure) and reliably while also facilitating improvement projects on these networks and establishing a long-term vision.
 
Key responsibilities & accountabilities:

• Ensure all activities and initiatives are compliant with rules on behaviour and process safety, regulations, and 20 SHE principles and life-saving rules.
• Manage and maintain the effectiveness, reliability and security of the process control, process information, and supervisory control and data acquisition networks and systems.
• As Cyber Security Officer, ensure suitable cyber security levels are achieved for all OT systems in line with our client's requirements.
• Identify, develop and implement CAPEX projects to improve the security, effectiveness, reliability and/or operating costs of OT systems.
• Ensure that plant objectives are met by supporting improvement projects, resolving process control issues and making sure no safety or volume issues occur with respect to automation and process control.
• Manage and improve all IT/OT-related documentation and processes, ensuring related knowledge is shared with the other site functions.
• Working alongside the Process Control Technologist, ensure that adequate support cover is provided for the OT systems on site.

 
Key skills & experience required:

• Masters or professional Bachelors degree in a relevant discipline or equal by experience.
• Minimum of 5 years relevant experience in (petro) chemical manufacturing processes, PVC batch process desirable.
• Experienced working with DCS, SIS, PLC, SCADA and data systems. Specific knowledge of Honeywell DCS and Aspen IP21 preferred.
• Understanding of relevant industry standards (for example IEC, EEMUA & HSE OG).
• Working knowledge of communication protocols such as Modbus, Profibus and OPC.  
• Familiar with SQL databases.
• Knowledge of virtualisation techniques for servers and workstations.
• Working knowledge of Advanced Process Control techniques.
• Understands highly complex technical aspects of the role and able to work without supervision.
• Problem solver, able to drive performance improvement.
• Able to solve very complex problems using interpolative thought processes making decisions in an orderly approach.
• Able to communicate well, both verbally and in writing; able to adapt and work easily across all organizational boundaries.
• Can adapt communications to the needs and backgrounds of diverse audiences.
• Able to manage complex assignments requiring interaction with personnel at multiple levels and across functional boundaries, actively seeking input from others and working across different disciplines.

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining, Automotive and Chemicals sectors worldwide.With more than 100 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.