Project I&C Engineer


Irvine
Permanent
$120,000 - $160,000 USD a year
Automation and Controls
PR/606892_1787338536
Project I&C Engineer

About the Opportunity

Our client is a respected engineering consulting firm specializing in critical infrastructure projects across the water and wastewater sector. They partner with municipalities, utilities, and industrial organizations to deliver innovative solutions that improve operational efficiency, system reliability, and environmental sustainability.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Engineer to lead the design and implementation of complex automation, SCADA, and control system projects. The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering high-impact projects while working closely with clients, project teams, and technical specialists.

Key Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with project managers and clients throughout project execution.
  • Develop project scopes, technical requirements, and design criteria for instrumentation, controls, and automation systems.
  • Lead I&C engineering efforts on medium to large-scale projects.
  • Design and develop PLC, SCADA, and industrial communication network architectures.
  • Specify and configure instrumentation, control devices, and network infrastructure components.
  • Prepare and review P&IDs, control strategies, network diagrams, and system architecture drawings.
  • Develop I/O lists, instrument data sheets, and control narratives.
  • Design control panel layouts and electrical schematics.
  • Produce technical specifications for instrumentation, PLCs, HMIs, networking equipment, and related control system components.
  • Perform technical reviews of contractor submittals and vendor documentation.
  • Develop construction cost estimates and support project budgeting activities.
  • Facilitate client workshops related to instrumentation standards, HMI development, and automation strategies.
  • Design telemetry and remote monitoring systems utilizing cellular, microwave, radio, fiber optic, or other communication technologies.
  • Prepare engineering reports, technical memorandums, and project documentation.
  • Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers and designers.
  • Manage project schedules, budgets, and technical deliverables to meet client expectations.
  • Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and delegate tasks while maintaining quality standards.
  • Conduct design quality reviews and ensure compliance with client and company standards.
  • Support business development activities and maintain strong client relationships.
  • Participate in field activities, site inspections, startup support, and commissioning efforts as needed.
  • Travel to project locations when required.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation & Controls Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
  • 6+ years of experience designing power, control, automation, or process systems within water, wastewater, industrial manufacturing, petrochemical, or similar process industries.
  • Strong knowledge of:
    • PLC and SCADA systems
    • Industrial communication networks
    • Electrical power distribution systems
    • P&IDs and process control design
    • Control panel design and layout
    • Single-line diagrams and electrical schematics
    • MCCs, load studies, and power calculations
    • Instrumentation selection and specification
  • Experience supporting construction, commissioning, and startup activities.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain licensure within a reasonable timeframe.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline.
  • Previous experience leading multidisciplinary automation and controls projects.
  • Strong client-facing communication and project management skills.
  • Experience with water and wastewater treatment facilities preferred.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $120,000 - $160,000 annually

Compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, technical expertise, certifications, education, project leadership experience, and geographic location.

In addition to a competitive compensation package, employees may be eligible for comprehensive benefits, including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) with company contribution
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
  • Professional licensing and certification assistance
  • Employee referral and performance bonus opportunities
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Flexible work arrangements (where applicable)
  • Employee assistance and wellness programs

If you're passionate about automation, controls, and infrastructure projects that positively impact communities, we'd love to discuss this opportunity with you.

FAQs

Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.

Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.

We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business. 

That's why we recommend registering your resume so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created. 

Yes, we help with resume and interview preparation. From customized support on how to optimize your resume to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.

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