CalTek is an engineering and technical staffing agency that is one of the country’s leading energy and clean tech recruitment firms. Our client is a globally recognized leader in sustainable energy innovation, specializing in smart grid infrastructure, renewable energy integration, and advanced energy storage technologies. With a strong emphasis on automation, digital transformation, and energy efficiency, they play a pivotal role in shaping the future of clean energy systems.
Backed by a legacy of technological leadership and a commitment to environmental stewardship, this organization develops and implements automation solutions that power utilities, industrial plants, and large-scale renewable energy projects across North America. Their facilities are state-of-the-art, their team is collaborative and innovation-driven, and their mission is focused on driving smarter, cleaner energy networks.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
As an Automation Engineer, you will be responsible for the design, programming, testing, and commissioning of automated control systems used in smart energy projects. You’ll be working on high-impact automation solutions for utility-scale battery storage, grid-tied solar systems, and industrial energy management.
Key responsibilities include:
- Designing and configuring PLC, SCADA, and HMI control systems for smart grid and renewable energy applications
- Programming controllers from leading vendors (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider Electric, etc.)
- Developing automation logic for battery energy storage systems (BESS) and energy management systems (EMS)
- Integrating sensor networks, modbus/TCP/IP communications, and IoT-enabled devices for real-time data acquisition
- Creating custom control strategies to optimize energy use, peak shaving, and load balancing
- Leading system commissioning efforts onsite and supporting field troubleshooting remotely
- Performing risk assessments, FMEA, and safety system programming in accordance with IEC 61508, ISO 13849, and NFPA 70E standards
- Collaborating with electrical engineers, project managers, and software developers to deploy reliable automation solutions
- Creating and maintaining documentation including I/O lists, electrical schematics, ladder logic diagrams, and user manuals
- Supporting continuous improvement by analyzing system performance data and recommending design updates
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field (required)
- Master’s degree or equivalent experience in energy systems or industrial automation (preferred)
Required Skills and Experience
- 5–10 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation and control systems
- Proven experience with PLC programming, especially with Allen-Bradley (RSLogix/Studio 5000), Siemens (TIA Portal), or Schneider Electric (EcoStruxure)
- Strong proficiency in SCADA/HMI development tools such as Wonderware (AVEVA), Ignition by Inductive Automation, or GE iFIX
- Knowledge of renewable energy systems, including solar PV, wind, and BESS
- Familiarity with energy monitoring systems (EMS), supervisory control, and real-time analytics platforms
- Working knowledge of industrial communication protocols such as Modbus, OPC UA, BACnet, and Ethernet/IP
- Experience with networked automation architectures and remote telemetry units (RTUs)
- Proficiency in control panel design, relay logic, and field wiring schematics (AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN)
- Understanding of ISA standards, IEC 61131, IEEE 1547, UL 508A, and NFPA 70/70E electrical codes
- Strong troubleshooting skills with the ability to interpret P&IDs, control narratives, and system architecture drawings
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in renewable energy integration, smart grid technologies, or microgrid design
- Familiarity with real-time energy analytics, demand response systems, or distributed energy resource management systems (DERMS)
- Certified Automation Professional (CAP) or Professional Engineer (PE) license in controls/electrical engineering
- Familiarity with scripting languages such as Python, VBScript, or JavaScript for automation workflows
- Experience with DevOps tools for version control and deployment (e.g., Git, Jenkins) in automation environments
- Hands-on commissioning experience for utility-scale projects and experience interfacing with clients, utilities, and AHJs
- OSHA-10/30 safety certifications and knowledge of site safety procedures during field commissioning
Popular Tools, Standards, and Platforms Used in This Role
- PLCs: Allen-Bradley, Siemens S7, Schneider M340/M580
- HMIs/SCADA: Wonderware, Ignition, WinCC, GE iFIX
- Design Software: AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN, ETAP
- Protocols & Platforms: Modbus, OPC UA, MQTT, DNP3, BACnet
- Standards: IEC 61131-3, NFPA 70/70E, UL 508A, IEEE 1547, ISA-88/ISA-95
