SCADA Engineer

Job Description:

SCADA Engineer

Description

Summary

If you want to join a hardworking team that shares a commitment to provide top-quality municipal services in a prime North County location, consider a career with the City of Escondido. We have an opening for the position of SCADA Engineer in Utilities Department/Wastewater Division. For a complete listing of job duties and qualifications, please refer to the corresponding job description, which can be obtained from the Human Resources Department or downloaded from the City's website.

Under direction, performs skilled duties in the development, update, modification, operation, administration, troubleshooting, design and support of the City's utilities control systems including software applications in PLC logic and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems to ensure critical water/wastewater systems function efficiently and effectively on a 24/7 basis; designs and maintains electrical and instrumentation drawings utilizing AutoCAD software including PLC panels, motor elementary drawings, process and instrumentation drawings, and loop drawings; manages projects related to maintaining and/or enhancing water/wastewater control systems; tests and supports a variety of specialized computer hardware, software, and instrumentation; develops, tests and maintains various control system networks; and provides technical support, training and assistance to end users.

Key Responsibilities

The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or maybe required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.

Performs a variety of analytical duties in the development, update, modification, operation, administration, and support of the City’s utilities information systems including software applications in PLC logic and the SCADA system; operates specialized software for computerized valve actuators, spread spectrum radio communications, and SCADA systems; tests and supports a variety of specialized system hardware, software, components and devices.

Participates in the evaluation and testing of new and enhanced applications; installs or upgrades software applications; troubleshoots and rectifies hardware and software related problems; coordinates and documents testing for new or revised software applications; deploys new applications in assigned areas.

Investigates, analyzes, and resolves computer related problems; resolves compatibility problems; troubleshoots system software, hardware and communication problems; recommends and implements changes and improvements.

Serves as liaison with system software and hardware suppliers and vendors; initiates request for proposal documents for the selection of professional service contracts; monitors contracted services for quality and compliance with City standards.

Serves as focal program management point on a variety of projects related to control systems applications; evaluates water/wastewater operational requirements; researches and develops control systems solutions; develops project budgets; monitors project performance and compliance with applicable specifications; ensures quality and timeliness of work performed.

Maintains system security and integrity; monitors security of all systems and applications; identifies unauthorized access and potential security risks; makes recommendations on security enhancements.

In partnership with Infosystems, installs and maintains control system network components including routers, switches, bridges, hubs, and other network equipment and software that include equipment for fiber optic communications, leased lines, VPN, and telemetry-based networks.

Responds to user inquiries on system operations; troubleshoots and diagnoses system hardware, software and operator problems.

Performs technical writing duties in the development, production and maintenance of system documentation, instructional materials and procedural manuals; reviews hardware and software technical specifications.

Confers with staff from various departments and outside agencies to facilitate upgrades as well as solve program, system, operational, and procedures problems; analyzes problems and recommends corrective action; designs, develops and implements solutions; coordinates system activities.

Works with Infosystems to provide technical assistance in the development of policies and procedures related to system availability, security and related services; maintains operational practices to support policies and procedures.

Contacts vendors for components, technical reference and/or services required for system maintenance and enhancement projects.

Responds to emergency situations as necessary and troubleshoots problems as they arise on a 24/7 basis.

Participates in long-term planning to assess future needs as they relate to electrical, telemetry and electronic systems, equipment and devices.

Provides software training and support to utilities staff, as necessary.

Provide support to City Information Systems staff by loading software or performing other services on City network computers at their direction, when needed.

Independently develops, configures, and maintains complex SCADA and PLC systems to ensure 24/7 operation of water and wastewater utility systems.

Designs, programs, and implements automation strategies for process control, optimization, and reporting.

Manages small to medium-sized projects, including preparing technical specifications, budgets, timelines, and coordinating internal/external resources.

Develops and updates electrical and control system drawings, including P&IDs, loop diagrams, control panel layouts, and wiring schematics using AutoCAD.

Leads advanced troubleshooting and root cause analysis across hardware, software, networking, and instrumentation systems.

Oversees installation, testing, and commissioning of new control system components and provides final system integration.

Serves as a subject matter expert on SCADA/HMI software, PLC platforms (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Modicon), industrial networks, and cybersecurity practices.

Participates in the planning and implementation of SCADA system upgrades, migration strategies, and integration with enterprise systems.

Evaluates and recommends new technologies, control strategies, or software tools to improve system reliability and performance.

Monitors and supports control system networks, including configuration of switches, routers, VPNs, leased lines, and telemetry infrastructure.

Reviews and approves work performed by contractors and vendors for conformance with City standards and system requirements.

Provides technical leadership, trains, plans, assigns, and reviews the work of the Control Systems Analyst staff and technicians, involved in the design, programming, and maintenance of the City’s SCADA and control systems.

Ensures system security and compliance with applicable regulatory requirements; maintains backup and recovery systems.

Participates in emergency response and after-hours troubleshooting as part of an on-call rotation.

Maintains detailed technical documentation, including SOPs, specifications, test results, and system configurations.

Performs related duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
Advanced SCADA system architecture, programming, and integration practices.
Industrial control systems design, including PLC programming and HMI development.
Instrumentation and process control theory related to water/wastewater systems.
Electrical design principles, NFPA/NEC codes, ISA standards, and best practices.
Control system communication protocols such as Modbus, Ethernet/IP, OPC, and radio telemetry.
Industrial networking conceptsincludingrouting, switching, VLANs, VPNs, and network security.
Project management principles, including budgeting, procurement, and contractor oversight.
Backup, disaster recovery, and system redundancy strategies for SCADA environments.
Cybersecurity standards for industrial control systems (e.g., NIST, ISA/IEC 62443).
Technical documentation standards and AutoCAD drafting practices.

Ability to:
Lead complex control system projects from concept through implementation.
Analyze, troubleshoot, and resolve advanced control system and communication issues.
Mentor and support junior engineers and technical staff.
Coordinate effectively with cross-functional teams, consultants, and vendors.
Interpret electrical and control drawings, specifications, and operational data.
Develop and implement standard operating procedures and maintenance schedules.
Prioritize tasks and manage time effectively in a dynamic work environment.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Respond to emergency calls, analyze critical failures, and implement immediate solutions.

Minimum Requirements

Education/Training:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field focused on control systems.

Experience:
Five years (Full-Time equivalent) of increasingly responsible experience in the design, programming, implementation and support of SCADA, Program Logic Controllers (PLC) and control systems, preferably in a water/wastewater or industrial process environment.
Experience with system integration and project leadership is highly desirable.

License/Certification:
Possession of, or ability to obtain a valid California Class C driver’s license.
Certifications in relevant technologies (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Wonderware/AVEVA, Ignition, Cisco networking, or ISA CAP) are desirable.

Supplemental Information

NOTE: For a complete listing of job duties and qualifications, please refer to the corresponding job description, which can be obtained from the Human Resources Department or downloaded from the City's web site. The City of Escondido is committed to a drug and alcohol free workplace. All applicants will be subject to fingerprint investigation before a conditional offer of employment is extended. A pre-employment medical examination will be conducted following a conditional offer of employment for all positions. Safety sensitive positions will include a pre-employment drug screen. Positions subject to the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations will be subject to DOT pre-employment drug testing and random drug and alcohol testing.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

Applications will be screened and the most qualified candidates will be invited to appear for testing. All positions require the ability to read, write and speak English. Types of tests may include written and/or oral examination, physical agility, practical exam or other appropriate job-related selection process. When testing is completed, candidates will be ranked on an eligibility list in the order of their test score. Selection for appointments is made from names certified on the eligibility list.

All appointments are subject to the successful completion of background investigation including LIVESCAN fingerprinting, and will be required to submit verification of the legal right to work in the United States. Qualification by a medical examination will be required at the time of appointment. After appointment, classified employees must satisfactorily complete a probationary period to be eligible for regular status. In accordance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, all new employees must produce proof of eligibility to work in the United States within the first three days of their employment. The City of Escondido participates in E-Verify®.

The Loyalty Oath will be administered to all new employees on their first day of hire. New employees hired into positions that require a driver's license must provide proof of a valid California Driver's License of the appropriate class level on their first day of employment.

Additional information regarding the essential functions and physical, environmental and communication demands of the position may be obtained from the Human Resources Department. If you require reasonable accommodation in the testing process, such as an alternate means of testing, you must contact the Human Resources Department by the final filing date to complete a Request for Reasonable Accommodation form. The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an express or implied contract. Any provision contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice.

Note: Pursuant to California Civil Code section 1786.53, the City of Escondido shall provide to all job candidates a copy of any records of arrest, indictment, conviction, civil judicial action, tax lien or outstanding judgment which was obtained in the course of conducting an evaluation for employment, assignment, and/or promotion. A copy of this information, if received by the City, will be given to candidates within seven days of the City's receipt.

VETERANS' PREFERENCE

Eligible individuals are those who meet the following criteria:

• Served in the U.S. armed forces
• Received an honorable discharge
• Did not retire from military service
• Seeking employment with the City of Escondido for the first time.

Guard and Reserve active duty for training purposes does not qualify for veterans' preference. Proof of eligibility (copy of DD-214) must be submitted at time of application, or later if the promulgation of the eligibility list will not be delayed. Veterans' preference credit will only be applied to eligible applicants who attained a passing grade (total score exclusive of credit) on the final open examination.

ABOUT OUR CITY

The City of Escondido is a prominent agricultural, commercial hub and residential center of North San Diego County. Located a short 30-minute drive from the beach, the mountains or downtown San Diego, Escondido residents enjoy the pleasure of a rural lifestyle with all the benefits of suburban living. Escondido is a diverse, vibrant community with many amenities. The city offers attractive homes in a wide range of prices, two lakes, several parks, a sports center, golf courses, restaurants, wineries, shopping centers, a variety of art galleries, entertainment venues, and a state of the art hospital. Established in 1888, the city's rich past brings charm and stability to the community; yet integrated with Escondido's treasured heritage is a progressive future, bright and brimming with promise.

EOE The City of Escondido does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, disability, sex, age, national origin, or sexual orientation. We will attempt to reasonably accommodate applicants with disabilities upon request.

The City of Escondido offers a comprehensive benefit package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.

The Benefits of Choice program offers you a range of benefits. You choose the coverage that is right for you, your family and your budget. Read this e-Guide for an overview of your options, with links to additional details and forms.

For a more detailed overview of this benefits package, please visit the Unclassified / Clerical / Technical Benefit Summary

Salary:

$123,244.44 - $165,159.24 Annually