Technologist, Control Systems

Basic Function

The Control Systems Technologist has the primary responsibility for supporting and improving the network, computer, and software components of plant process control systems to provide security and to ensure optimum integrity, reliability, and performance.
 

Roles & Responsibilities

Help set technical direction and long-term strategy for all Industrial Control System computing resources, architecture, and security.

• Identify obsolescence issues, and drive prioritization and incorporation of mitigation plan into site long range plan (LRP)
• Identify opportunities and recommend new technologies to resolve complex or chronic computing and networking problems
• Serve as technical lead on control network-related capital projects such as deployment of new software technologies.
• Develop standardized hardware selection, configurations, and procedures for process control network servers/workstations/networks that provide security protection and support the high availability demands of real-time systems.
• Function as a liaison between CSE group and equipment suppliers, engineering contractors, and other LYB groups such as IT, HSE and Manufacturing

Administer and maintain Windows-based and networking components of all Industrial Control Systems

• System Administrator for Windows environments, domain, software, and third-party interfaces on all process control and related maintenance/reliability networks.
• Provide day-to-day support of the ICS’s as needed to ensure safe, reliable operation that does not compromise the stability of the site’s control systems.
• Apply software/OS updates and patches, perform backups, and lifecycle servers/workstations as needed to maintain compliance with corporate standards.
• Create MOCs and lead evaluations for ICS-related modifications
• Complete assigned MOC and IMPACT action items
• Conduct OE-Self assessments / process safety audits
• Assure the security of the site’s networks comply with corporate standards, and communicate any threats to the network security.
• Assure the safe, reliable operation of the site’s process control networks
• Ensure site ICS’s adhere to corporate standards for security, patching, backups, etc. as measured by KPIs.
• Define and help drive long-range obsolescence plans for life cycling of ICS components
• Support successful commissioning of capital projects impacting the process control networks.
• Stop any work immediately when it is believed to be unsafe.
• Enforce application of corporate, industry, and company standards and procedures
• Administer security access and privileges for all users on process control networks

Ability to work effectively both independently and in a team environment:

• Commitment to GoalZERO
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Self-motivation and high initiative
• Ability to work across multi-disciplinary teams and interact with all levels of the organization
• Innovative thinking to perform real-time troubleshooting and to solve complex issues

Working knowledge of various subjects/technologies:

• Windows workstation and server OS administration
• Active Directory, domain architecture & management, group policies
• Network topology and components
• Network and Cyber security, antivirus, WSUS, disaster recovery
• SQL server and database management
• Modbus and OPC communications
• Various vendor products: Aspentech, PAS, Honeywell, DeltaV

Min. Qualifications

• 6 years of Operational Technology (OT) experience in a plant environment and BS degree in Engineering/Computer Science and 2 years’ experience working in a plant environment
• Requires strong problem solving and analytical skills
• The ability to manage multiple and changing priorities is essential
• Results of their efforts impact site and/or business strategies, drivers and goals
• Performs technical applications independently and excels in assigned area of expertise
• Must be able to influence others in a facilitative style
• Requires highly specific and well-developed knowledge of process computer systems, distributed control systems, advanced control applications, and networks
   

Competencies