I&C SCADA Engineer/Specialist – I&C Renewables Project Support

• This position will be based out of Birmingham, AL or Forest Park, GA (Metro Atlanta) however candidates living outside of the area may be considered with the expectation that they could successfully telework and be physically present in-office and/or field location on a routine (see below) and as-needed basis.
• Hybrid work schedule (both in-office and telecommute); currently three (3) days in-office and two (2) days telecommute (subject to adjustment).
• Relocation assistance may be provided if the successful candidate does not currently live within a reasonable commute distance.
• This position will require some travel (day and overnight, up to 25%) and the ability to work successfully in a remote/virtual environment with access to internet service.

Position Summary

The I&C SCADA Engineer/Specialist at Southern Company is pivotal in the renewable energy sector, focusing on the design, implementation, and maintenance of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and Operational Technology (OT) systems. These systems are essential for the monitoring and control of renewable energy generation facilities and remote operations centers (ROC), including wind, solar, and energy storage projects. This role will provide project and technical support for control and SCADA systems at existing and new facilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Development of Ignition SCADA systems for real-time monitoring and control of renewable energy facilities and ROCs.
• Assist with setting up and configuring SCADA servers as required for project support.
• Development of process control equipment, including Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), Real-Time Automation Controllers (RTAC), Ovation platform, and miscellaneous renewable generation-related instrumentation.
• Provide project engineering and configuration for control logic and/or SCADA, including device interface, tag lists, operator graphics, and process alarm implementation.
• Create and maintain schematics, documentation, and diagrams as needed for existing systems, new implementations, upgrades, and changes.
• Assist in specification, procurement, configuration, field checkout, and commissioning of control and SCADA and control systems.
• Assist in developing project scope definitions, estimates, and schedules.
• Serve as technical consultant supporting renewable generation facilities with I&C and SCADA related issues, troubleshooting, training, and process improvements to maintain reliable operations.
• Assist with maintaining SCADA systems including backups, anti-malware updates, operating system patching, and software updates.
• Further the development, process implementation, and procedures of company standards for renewable control and SCADA systems.
• Assist with maintaining compliance with Southern Company’s cyber security standards, regulatory compliance, and NERC/CIP requirements applicable to renewable facilities.
• Ensure change management processes are followed.

Education

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Engineering (ABET accredited), Computer Science, Information Systems, or related technical degree.
• Associate degree in Engineering Technology, Industrial Controls, or related technical degree.

Experience

• Exposure to industrial automation, plant control systems, and/or SCADA systems.
• Familiarity with Ignition SCADA platform a plus.
• Knowledge of automation communication protocols (e.g. Modbus, OPC, DNP3).
• Exposure to PLC programming or HMI development a plus.
• Familiarity with Windows Server administration or management a plus

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Programming languages (Python, C++, or similar).
• Fundamental computer skills and cybersecurity best practices.
• Basic understanding of networking, including concepts such as NATs and VLANs.
• Computer-aided drawing (CAD); AutoCAD or Microsoft Visio.
• Ability to troubleshoot and debug complex issues.
• Eagerness to learn and adapt to new technologies.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Organizing and managing multiple tasks at the same time.

Behavioral Attributes

• Must consistently demonstrate the behavior of Our Values – Safety First, Intentional Inclusion, Act with Integrity, and Superior Performance
• Safety First : Prioritize the safety and well-being of employees, customers, and communities.
• Intentional Inclusion : Foster a culture of belonging and value diversity within the team.
• Act with Integrity : Conduct business with honesty, respect, and fairness.
• Superior Performance : Focus on continuous improvement and exceptional service delivery.
• People Priority: Commit to developing yourself and those around you.

Benefits

• Competitive Pay
• Excellent benefits packages which includes:
• Medical and dental coverage
• Defined Pension/Cash Balance Benefit Plan
• Performance-sharing plan
• 401(k) plan with a generous company match
• Bonus opportunities
• Tuition Reimbursement

Please submit an updated resume with your application

Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is a leading energy provider serving 9 million residential and commercial customers across the Southeast and beyond through its family of companies. Providing clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy with excellent service is our mission. The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company, a leading distributed energy infrastructure company with national capabilities, a fiber optics network, and telecommunications services. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, resilience, and sustainability, we are taking action to meet our customers’ and communities’ needs while advancing our commitment to net zero emissions by 2050. Our uncompromising values ensure we put the needs of those we serve at the center of everything we do and are the key to our sustained success. We are transforming energy into economic, environmental and social progress for tomorrow. Our corporate culture and hiring practices have earned the company national awards and recognition from numerous organizations, including Forbes, Military Times, DiversityInc, Black Enterprise, J.D. Power, Fortune, Human Rights Campaign and more. To learn more, visit www.southerncompany.com.

Southern Company is an equal opportunity employer where an applicant’s qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Job Identification: 6932

Job Category: Engineering

Job Schedule: Full time

Company: Southern Company Services