R&D Automation and Controls Specialist

Position Summary

Trilogy LLC is seeking a highly skilled and motivated R&D Automation and Controls Specialist to lead the development, field deployment, and technical support of our proprietary automated oilfield systems—including the auto-dumping system for the Sand Titan product line and other advanced flowback and sand separation technologies.

This role is a hybrid of hands-on R&D and field-based commissioning, focused on modern, flexible control platforms that integrate electrical, hydraulic, and sensor-based automation. The position is based in Minot, Watford City, or Dickinson, ND, and includes frequent travel to wellsites for equipment startup, testing, and on-call troubleshooting.

As Trilogy scales its fleet of automation-enabled equipment through state-supported innovation initiatives, this role offers a clear path to future leadership, including the opportunity to grow into a managerial role with direct reports.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead on-site installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of Trilogy’s automated control systems

- Collaborate with engineering and R&D teams to refine and validate automation logic and field performance

- Integrate and support hydraulic actuators, control valves, sensors, and instrumentation in real-world wellsite environments

- Configure and test controller hardware, I/O systems, and human-machine interfaces (HMIs)

- Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to control logic, electrical wiring, signal integrity, and system responsiveness

- Maintain accurate system documentation including wiring diagrams, I/O maps, and startup procedures

- Provide on-call technical support for deployed units and assist with long-term maintenance

- Support standardization and scaling of automation systems for broader deployment

- Help mentor and train additional team members as the automation group expands

Required Qualifications

- 5+ years of experience in automation, controls, or I&E roles, with strong field and startup experience

- Proficient in industrial electrical systems, control panels, field instrumentation, and automation logic

- Experience working with hydraulic systems, automated valves, and field-ready equipment

- Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (Ethernet-based and analog/digital I/O)

- Ability to read and interpret schematics, P&IDs, and control documentation

- Comfortable working in high-pressure environments and traveling regularly to field sites

- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record

Preferred Qualifications

- Experience with flexible, open-architecture control platforms

- Familiarity with high-level automation scripting or logic programming (structured text, Python, etc.)

- Exposure to SCADA, remote telemetry, or IoT-based monitoring systems

- Technical degree or certification in automation, controls, electrical systems, or similar fields

- Past experience mentoring field technicians or leading small technical teams

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