Automation Control Specialist

Location: Houston, TX — onsite Employment type: Permanent, full-time Compensation: $95,000 – $130,000 base, depending on experience, plus overtime and call-out pay Sector: Midstream — natural gas & NGL pipelines

The Role

Our client, a midstream energy operator, is hiring an Automation Control Specialist to provide operational support, troubleshooting, process optimisation, programming and HMI support across natural gas pipelines, NGL pipelines and associated compressor stations. The role is based out of their Houston office.

What You’ll Be Doing

Maintaining, installing and troubleshooting process control software and pipeline equipment including PLCs, RTUs and HMI equipment
Improving long-term PLC equipment reliability and supporting the rollout of PLC automation technology strategies
Designing and participating in the construction of control systems across the pipeline network
Supporting installation, maintenance and troubleshooting of all pipeline automation equipment
Supervising and inspecting third-party contract labor used to build or improve automation systems
Building and maintaining strong relationships with automation technology and PLC control system vendors
Reviewing bids, specifications and approval documentation, and managing projects from design through implementation
Ensuring technology used meets safety, reliability and cost-effectiveness requirements
Staying current with automation control best practice and industry regulations, identifying changes in codes and standards, and proposing new developments in automation
Correcting system hazards, analyzing malfunctioning systems and identifying safe, cost-effective solutions

What You’ll Need

Technical or Associate’s Degree in Instrumentation, Electronic Communications, Industrial Electronics, or equivalent
5+ years’ experience in program development or troubleshooting across all Allen Bradley PLC software platforms
Familiarity with AB CompactLogix, AB ControlLogix and Fisher ROC RTU
Communications experience with cellular, satellite, Modbus and SCADA
Ability to troubleshoot and repair AC and DC electrical circuits
Valid driver’s license and ability to meet the company’s insurability requirements
Willingness to comply with the company’s drug and alcohol testing program
Ability to work overtime, weekends and holidays, and respond to call-outs and emergencies
Comfortable working in changing climate conditions, tight spaces, and at height — elevated platforms, ladders and walkways
Strong verbal and written communication skills; fluency in English required
Authorized to work in the United States

Desirable

Expert-level ability to program and/or configure automation technology such as sensors, PID loop control, data communications and other electrical machines
Knowledge of pipeline and terminal business processes and equipment — mainline motors and engines, pipeline flow measurement, tank level measurement

Compensation & Benefits

$95,000 – $130,000 base salary, depending on experience and qualifications
Overtime, call-out and on-call pay in addition to base
Employer-matched 401(k)
Medical, dental and vision coverage
Basic life and AD&D insurance
Additional benefits offered by the employer

Working Conditions

This is an onsite role based in Houston, TX, with travel to pipeline facilities and compressor stations. The position involves fieldwork in variable outdoor conditions, confined spaces and work at height, and requires availability for emergency call-outs outside standard hours.

How to Apply

Apply through the form below, or contact the Sibling team for a confidential conversation. Client details are shared with shortlisted candidates.

Important Information

Salary range. The range shown is the good-faith range for this position at the time of posting. Actual compensation will depend on experience, qualifications and other job-related factors. Texas does not require salary disclosure in job postings — we publish ranges as a matter of policy.

Pre-employment screening. This position is subject to a background check and pre-employment drug and alcohol testing, conducted in accordance with applicable federal and state law, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Safety-sensitive pipeline roles may be subject to DOT/PHMSA testing requirements under 49 CFR Part 199.

Work authorization. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Employment eligibility will be verified.

Employment at will. Employment in Texas is at-will and may be terminated by either party at any time, with or without cause or notice.

Equal opportunity. Sibling Recruitment and our clients are equal opportunity employers. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available on request during the application process — contact us to arrange one.