Technical Specialist, Automation – Power Innovation Commissioning

About the Job

Seasoned automation specialist delivering commissioning, startup, and ongoing operation support for power and energy infrastructure projects.

Language Requirements English

Job Description

Location: Bowling Green, OH 43402 • On-site

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate advanced technical expertise in automation systems supporting commissioning, startup, and operations for power and energy infrastructure (e.g., BESS, substations, generation assets).

• Apply specialized knowledge to support safe, efficient commissioning and system turnover, including coordination of FAT/SAT activities, systemization, and punch-list closure, while managing costs and field resources.

• Support development and execution of commissioning plans, procedures, and automation test protocols.

• Prepare and deliver technical briefings, commissioning readiness reviews, and post-event summaries to project leadership and cross-functional teams.

• Maintain strong working knowledge of industry standards (NFPA 70E, IEEE, NERC where applicable), commissioning practices, and operational requirements.

• Interpret and anticipate project risks, integration issues, and system performance gaps, providing solutions to improve reliability, commissioning efficiency, and long-term operability.

• Collaborate with Engineering, Construction, Operations, and OEMs to:

  • Ensure compliance with design and operational requirements

  • Develop corrective action plans

  • Support operator training and knowledge transfer

• Serve as a technical lead and custodian for commissioning-related automation standards, including:

  • Control system configuration requirements

  • Startup and shutdown logic validation

  • Alarm management and SCADA integration

  • Documentation and turnover packages

• Support cybersecurity initiatives, control system patching, and hardware lifecycle/refresh activities during commissioning and operational transition.

• Contribute to the Approved Manufacturer List (AML) by validating automation equipment performance, compatibility, and field lessons learned.

• Provide field troubleshooting and real-time support for PLC/DCS/HMI-related issues during energization and startup.

• Drive continuous improvement across commissioning processes, incorporating lessons learned into future projects.

• Other duties as assigned.

Education / Experience

• Required: High School Diploma / GED and a minimum of eight (8) years of progressive experience in power generation, energy infrastructure, commissioning, or industrial automation.

• Preferred: Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related field.

Other Requirements

• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills with safety as the top priority, especially during energization and high-risk commissioning activities.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and standard field reporting tools.

• Advanced knowledge of enterprise automation systems (e.g., AssetCentre or equivalents) for configuration management, backups, version control, and compliance.

• Solid understanding of:

  • Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC)

  • Distributed Control Systems (DCS)

  • SCADA systems and HMI interfaces

  • Communication protocols (Modbus, DNP3, IEC 61850, etc., as applicable)

  • Experience supporting commissioning workflows, including system turnover packages, redline validation, and documentation tracking

Work Schedule & Other Details

• 12-hour, 7-day on/off rotating shifts.

• Work in a variety of conditions, including extreme temperatures, loud areas, and confined spaces.

• Lift up to 50 lbs and team-lift heavier loads.

• Stand, walk, climb, bend, and squat for extended periods.

• Work at elevated levels using ladders, scaffolding, or lifts with appropriate PPE.

• Use hand tools and mechanical diagnostic equipment.

• Occasional shiftwork on nights and holidays.