Instrumentation & Controls Specialist

Blue Ridge Power (BRP) is seeking an Instrumentation & Controls Specialist responsible for supporting the commissioning of SCADA systems for medium to large utility-scale PV and battery storage generation sites. This position reviews engineering drawings, codes, standards, and specifications to implement and execute all related commissioning and startup practices, tools, techniques, and programs to achieve contractual compliance. They will support multiple projects across BRP’s portfolio, which may include travel to different states within the mainland United States. This position reports to the Instrumentation and Controls Manager. This position is designated as a safety-sensitive position.

This position is 60% – 80% travel and offers per diem while working on our project sites. Site states include, but are not limited to: North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Texas, Mississippi, Louisiana, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, etc.

What You’ll Do:

• Support commissioning of the SCADA system by confirming the design provided in drawings against installation in the field, creating submittals, requests for information (RFI), and written reports from SCADA testing.
• Lead and coordinate SCADA field equipment troubleshooting and support verification of field data to the SCADA system.
• Work with the SCADA vendor to troubleshoot, identify, and resolve communication integration issues.
• Verify alarms in the SCADA HMI system by safely activating the field I/O.
• Troubleshoot communication interfaces at the site based on media such as CAT 5e and fiber optic cables.
• Support ethernet network commissioning by updating the configuration of Ethernet switches and firewalls on site.
• Support commissioning of Power Plant Controller (PPC), HMI Servers, communication gateways, PLC, and protection relays.
• Work with Inverter and Met station and track OEMs to troubleshoot communication integration issues.
• Support the Commissioning team in troubleshooting failed equipment (ISUs, Inverters, etc.) during the commissioning process.
• Collaborate with others to create innovative solutions, test operating constraints, and develop tools to help the SCADA team during commissioning.
• Review pre-functional checklists and functional testing procedures and support testing to commission utility-scale solar and BESS projects successfully.
• Raise work order tickets with equipment Original Equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and Vendors for failed equipment.
• Work with the commissioning team to create and manage equipment RMA processes.
• Adhere to and support Health, Safety & Environmental, and Sustainability Policies.
• Review engineering drawings and specifications to support SCADA commissioning procedures with SCADA vendors.
• Develop project-specific written commissioning procedures.
• Stay current on applicable technical processes, methods, standards, and best practices.
• Organize and prioritize a variety of projects and multiple tasks effectively and timely, set priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Performs other duties as requested by Commissioning leadership.

Must-Haves:

• 4+ years’ experience commissioning utility-scale solar projects.
• Proficiency in reading design documents such as utility-scale solar, BESS, substation design plans, and equipment specifications.
• A good understanding of major electrical equipment such as switchgear, VAR systems, Inverters, reclosers, and MV transformers.
• Knowledge and expertise in PV solar equipment, including PV modules, combiner boxes, solar trackers, inverters, DAS/SCADA equipment, communications hardware, meteorological sensors, etc.
• Good knowledge and expertise in troubleshooting SCADA equipment.
• Required software: Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
• Strong written and verbal communication and presentation skills.

Nice-to-Haves:

• Experience developing SCADA configurations for automation controllers such as SEL-RTAC and other PLCs.
• Preferred software: Procore, CMS.
• Demonstrated willingness to travel on short notice for short and long-term assignments.
• Ability to develop and implement a detailed and integrated commissioning and start-up process and plan.

Education and Certifications:

• AA in EET (or BS/Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or Information Systems).

Working Environment and Physical Demand:

• 60% – 80% travel depending on project requirements and offers per diem while working on our project site(s).
• Ability to receive and execute tasks delegated by a more senior technician, all while recognizing potential safety concerns and maintaining a good attitude.
• Must be able to comply with all company safety standards and procedures, including OSHA requirements.
• Complete OSHA training as required.
• Must follow organization policies and procedures.
• Individuals in this position work in an outdoor environment and must be able to tolerate all climates.
• Must be able to sit, stoop, kneel, bend, stand, or walk short to long distances for 8-10 hours daily.
• Must be able to lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds on an occasional basis.