Field PLC Engineer
Field PLC Engineer
About the Role
The Field PLC Engineer is responsible for the deployment, commissioning, and support of electronic control systems for large-scale data centre environments using Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). This is a highly technical, client-facing, and field-focused role requiring extensive travel (50-60%) to support both remote and onsite installation, testing, and troubleshooting activities. The role ensures precise, reliable, and scalable automation across HVAC, mechanical, and electrical systems during critical deployment phases.
Key Responsibilities
Field Deployment & Commissioning
- Travel to client sites (50-60%) to support the deployment, commissioning, and start-up of PLC-based control systems for data centre facilities
- Perform onsite PLC programming, testing, and troubleshooting of systems controlling HVAC, mechanical, and electrical equipment in mission-critical environments
- Provide both remote and onsite technical support during installation, commissioning, and post-deployment phases
- Work directly with clients, contractors, and field teams to resolve integration issues, system errors, and performance concerns
- Implement customer-requested modifications and updates to PLC programs and control strategies in live production environments
- Debug and resolve installation issues during static and dynamic commissioning, including PLC logic, hardware, and communication network troubleshooting
- Support field commissioning teams during system start-up, functional testing, and validation to ensure systems meet design specifications
- Diagnose and correct system faults in real time, often under time-sensitive conditions during critical deployment milestones
- Collaborate with engineering, construction, and vendor teams to ensure successful integration of controls, equipment, and subsystems
- Document field changes, programming updates, system configurations, and lessons learned for project turnover and knowledge transfer
- Provide technical training and support to client operations teams during system handoff
- Participate in design reviews and client meetings, providing field engineering expertise and deployment feasibility input
Qualifications
- Minimum of 5+ years' experience as a PLC Programmer/Engineer with significant field deployment and commissioning experience
- Experience using Studio 5000 / Rockwell Automation software in field and production environments
- Proven hands-on experience commissioning complex chiller or boiler systems (central plants) in the field
- Experience developing and deploying redundancy strategies, including programming redundant PLC controller managers
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving capabilities in high-pressure, time-sensitive field environments
- Ability to work independently onsite with minimal supervision while managing multiple concurrent deployment activities
- Strong communication and client-facing skills for technical discussions and issue resolution
- Willingness and ability to travel up to 50-60%, including potential for extended site assignments
- Strong organisational, task management, and documentation skills in dynamic field conditions
- Valid driver's licence with the ability to travel domestically and internationally as required
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in software engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering
- Experience with Ignition SCADA, HMIs, or EPMS/BMS integrations in deployed environments
- Data centre or hyperscale infrastructure commissioning experience
- Experience using remote support tools and methodologies
- Familiarity with construction and commissioning processes in large-scale facilities
Physical Requirements
- Ability to travel frequently to job sites by car or plane, up to 85%
- Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout job sites for extended periods
- Ability to climb ladders, stairs, and lifts as required
- Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, and work in tight or confined spaces
- Ability to lift, carry, and manoeuvre equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds
- Manual dexterity to handle tools, wiring, and small components
- Ability to work at heights and in varying indoor and outdoor conditions
- Ability to wear and work in required personal protective equipment, including hard hat, vest, safety glasses, gloves, and safety-toed boots
- Visual acuity to read schematics, labels, and digital displays
- Ability to visually identify and differentiate wires by assigned colour
- Ability to hear and respond to alarms, equipment sounds, and verbal instructions
- Capability to safely operate hand and power tools
FAQs
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