Controls Systems Specialist

Job Description

The Control System Specialist will be responsible for the conception, design, development, and maintenance of drilling rig control system(s) software and hardware. The preferred candidate should have an established fundamental knowledge of control system principles, exceptional problem-solving skills, experience with variable frequency drives, and industrial communication protocols. They will be responsible for developing new products, sustaining current rig software applications, and fixing issues that are reported with the systems.

The successful candidate will set high standards of performance for themselves and their projects. Present professional demeanor in written and verbal communications while developing innovative solutions. Demonstrate ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously and adapt to business needs.

This role will report to the Controls and Automation Lead

Detailed Description

Additionally, this role will include field-project responsibilities such as:

- Providing strong leadership and management of field upgrade projects, including PLC upgrades, drilling controls implementation, and equipment retrofits.

- Managing multiple complex projects simultaneously, ensuring on-schedule and within-budget execution.

- Working directly with third party contractors, operations, technical services, and HSE teams to execute project scopes.

- Performing red-line changes to electrical drawings using drafting software.

- Providing in-depth training to field personnel on control systems and their operation.

- Supporting troubleshooting and technical resolution for PLC and control system issues on-site.

Apply exceptional understanding of engineering fundamentals with attention to detail and problem-solving skills to complete rig automation projects

Responsible for developing control algorithms, PLC software, HMI design/development, system architecture design, and implementation of industrial communication protocols

Be proficient in designing, developing, and applying control system theory to develop software for new and existing systems

Design and develop drilling applications to improve efficiency and automate drilling processes

Must be able to understand/translate the functional requirements into a system architecture and develop the best solution for large scale implementation

Provide accurate system, loop, block, and network diagrams for new or existing systems

Generate design documentation, drawings, operation manuals and related material for system code and hardware

Generate work tasks, organize the ordering and delivery of equipment and materials, and oversee the efficient installation and commissioning of software and equipment

Work directly with third party contractors, Operations, Technical Services, HSE management, and rig crews to assist with the execution of a wide variety of company goals including, but not limited to, drilling control systems, R&D projects, etc.

Provide technical support to field personnel as required to assist with troubleshooting PLC and control system issues

Follow a formal process for software change control to ensure that changes are introduced in a controlled and coordinated manner. This process will also include documenting revision management processes and controls.

Job Requirements

Ability to work independently as well as part of a team, manage multiple tasks, and work on multiple projects simultaneously

Demonstrate clear written and verbal communication skills and the ability to promptly give and follow directions when working with others

Demonstrate forward thinking and problem-solving skills to deliver quality products that enhance the company’s vision and drilling portfolio

Ability to safely navigate the rig up yard and shop work sites with occasional walking, climbing, standing, stepping, etc. during normal operating conditions (day/night, outdoor hot/cold weather)

Ability to safely navigate drilling rig work sites including regular walking, climbing, standing, stepping, etc. during various weather conditions (day/night, outdoor hot/cold weather)

Ability to proficiently use MS Office Suite to develop presentations, correspondence, reports, and schedules (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)

Physical Ability To

Lift and carry 50 pounds independently while walking on uneven surfaces

Bend, stoop, kneel, twist, and crawl occasionally during visits to the field and operational work areas

Listen for unusual noises that signify equipment and or machinery problems

Stay alert and focused including during occasional extended work periods

Maintain spatial orientation and awareness to safely move around the work environment with many moving objects including overhead machinery

Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all designated times

Ability to regularly travel as needed to visit worksites and support business units; may require extended travel to remote locations and/or overnight stay(s) outside normal office area

Ability to work on weekends and be on call after hours as needed

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a non-engineering discipline OR Associate technical degree with equivalent relevant experience

3+ years of proven experience with PLC programming and HMI development

Experience with industrial communications protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Profinet, CANBUS, OPC UA, EtherCAT, etc.)

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in Omron/Siemens PLC programming

Proficiency in developing PLC code in ladder logic, structured text, statement list, SFC, etc.

Experience in HMI development using Wonderware or equivalent

Working knowledge of VFD drives

Experience working in a multi-developer environment

Working knowledge of equipment used in the drilling industry

Bachelor’s Degree in a related discipline

3+ years’ of operational experience working for a drilling contractor or closely related service

Experience with NOV/Amphion and SLB systems and controls

Experience with Yaskawa, GE, and ABB VFD systems

Travel

Up to 25 %

Additional Details

The Control System Specialist must work with an emphasis on individual safety and safety for others, including coworkers and third parties. Compliance to Patterson’s safety policies and procedure is mandatory. This position could require an occasional visit to the rigs, yards and field offices. Work is primarily in a climate controlled / office environment with minimal safety / health hazard potential. The employee is regularly required to sit, stand, or walk with occasional lifting (overhead, waist level) from floor, bending and frequent near vision use for reading and use of computer, telephone and other office equipment. Occasional travel to other Company offices and work sites, often in remote locations, is required during normal operating conditions (day/night, outdoor hot/cold weather), and employee will be expected to properly use designated personal protective equipment (PPE).

Job Info

- Job Identification 4898

- Job Category Technology

- Posting Date 08/04/2025, 02:12 PM

- Degree Level Associate Degree

- Job Shift Standard

- Locations 10713 West Sam Houston Parkway North, Houston, TX, 77064, US

- Worker Type Employee