Sr Controls Engineer

About the Opportunity

The Sr. Controls Engineer is responsible for the design, configuration, integration, and commissioning of automation and control systems for utility-scale and industrial power generation and microgrid plants, including turbine-driven generation assets. This role serves as the technical interface with engineering contractors, system integrators, OEMs, and operations teams across the full project lifecycle, from design review and EPC execution through field commissioning and ongoing operational support. This is a hands-on technical role with a strong focus on Ignition SCADA (Inductive Automation), Distributed Control Systems (DCS), and Energy Management Systems (EMS), supporting reliable, high-availability operation of power systems including mission-critical loads.

Essential Functions

• Design, configure, and commission automation, control, and SCADA systems (Ignition, DCS) for power generation and microgrid installations.
• Configure, integrate, and support Energy Management Systems (EMS) governing turbine generation and dispatch, such as SEL Powermax, GE, or Siemens platforms.
• Serve as the technical point of contact with EPC contractors, system integrators, OEMs, and operations teams throughout design, construction, and commissioning.
• Develop and review control system architecture, I/O lists, control narratives, and P&IDs in support of project engineering.
• Lead or support factory acceptance testing (FAT), site acceptance testing (SAT), and field commissioning activities.
• Troubleshoot control system, communications, and EMS/turbine control issues in the field and remotely to minimize downtime.
• Support integration between turbine controllers, protective relays, and plant-level EMS/SCADA to ensure coordinated, reliable operation.
• Develop technical documentation, including control philosophies, sequence of operations, and as-built drawings.
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior controls and automation engineers.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance system reliability, cybersecurity posture, and operational efficiency.

Experience/Education

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related technical field, or equivalent relevant experience.
• 5+ years of experience in controls, automation, or electrical engineering within power generation, microgrid, or industrial facilities.
• Required: Hands-on experience with an Energy Management System (EMS) operating turbines, such as SEL Powermax, GE, or Siemens.
• Experience with Ignition SCADA (Inductive Automation) and/or Distributed Control Systems (DCS) strongly preferred.
• Working knowledge of PLCs, industrial networking/communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, DNP3, OPC-UA), and protective relaying is a plus.
• Prior experience supporting EPC execution, field commissioning, or utility-scale power projects is preferred.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills, with the ability to work independently in the field and under time-sensitive conditions.

Key Skills and Qualifications

• Exceptional communicator – direct and transparent, skilled problem-solver with proven success in building coalitions and avoiding conflicts
• Total ownership mentality – proactively identifies and removes obstacles across numerous ongoing tasks
• Independent thinker – provides original thoughts and constantly asking "how can we do this better"
• Innovative thinker – willingness to consider novel solutions and ability to adapt to change
• Desirable teammate – impeccable character, humility, and collaborative
• Relentless – aspires to contribute and achieve his/her full potential

Our CREATORS Culture

At Solaris, we believe that staying true to our core beliefs improves our decision-making, productivity and is key to our individual and collective achievements. Combining your innovative thinking with our core values that encourage Communication, Recognition, Entrepreneurship, Accountability, Teamwork & Transparency, Ownership, Results and Safety, we become CREATORS.

We value your hard work, integrity, and commitment to the Solaris “First in Service & Innovation” culture through competitive pay and benefits packages and ongoing career development.

• Competitive compensation packages
• Medical, Dental & Vision benefits
• Disability Insurance
• Company paid Life and AD&D insurance with supplemental offerings
• Company matching 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off, including 10 paid holidays
• Career Progression
• Tuition Reimbursement

This job overview is not all inclusive. In addition, Solaris reserves the right to amend this job overview at any time. Solaris is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Why Solaris Join a company at the forefront of the energy infrastructure buildout powering data centers and industrial growth. We offer competitive compensation, benefits, and opportunities to grow alongside a high-performing team.