The Manager, Controls and Automation will be responsible for the conception, design, development, and maintenance of drilling rig control system(s) software and hardware. The preferred candidate should have a good knowledge of AC/DC drives, drilling rig equipment, and control system software. They will be responsible for overseeing the development, testing, and deployment of new control applications as well as supporting current rig control systems.

The successful candidate will: set high standards of performance for themselves and others; be professional in written, verbal and personal actions in any situation; seek new knowledge and experiences; have an analytical mindset that can utilize factual data to develop creative and business-oriented solutions; be self- aware and adjust accordingly to different environments and audiences.

This role will work under the direction of the VP, Technology.

Detailed Description


- Manage a centralized group of software developers and third party resources responsible for supporting and implementing the Company's strategic vision as it relates to drilling controls and automation development.

- Understand and influence the strategic vision of the Company's automation and controls development roadmap; translate functional requirements into system architecture and oversee the development of the best solutions for large scale implementation.

- Manage the field qualification (beta test) process for modifications and new applications; document and communicate scope of work according to Company management of change and quality processes; analyze and report on results of field testing.

- Establish strong lines of communication to solicit field feedback during and after field qualification; drive a culture focused on utilizing data and end user feedback to continuously improve controls and automation systems to be best-in-class.

- Be technical capable of, and responsible for:

- Applying control system theory to compile software code for new and existing systems.

- Developing control algorithms, system architecture and compiling software for PLC based systems, HMI's, data loggers, and communication networks used in the drilling industry.

- Providing accurate system diagrams, loop diagrams, block diagrams, and network diagrams for new or existing software systems.

- Generating design documentation, drawings, operation manuals and related material for system hardware and software.

- Generate work scopes, organize the ordering and delivery of equipment and materials, and oversee the efficient installation of equipment and software.

- Be responsible for the security of Company software and associated IP according to Company policy.

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

- Promote a diverse and inclusive work environment where employees of all backgrounds feel included and their contributions are valued.

- Make employment decisions in a manner consistent with all Company policies, including the Company's Equal Employment Opportunity and Anti-Harassment Policy.

- Promptly address and resolve concerns and disputes among team members, with the goal of building a stronger, more cohesive work group.

Job Requirements:


- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team, managing multiple tasks and projects simultaneously to meet challenging deadlines

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

- Ability to develop business processes when necessary for improved organization or efficiency

- Ability to safely navigate the 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, Power Point, Project 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 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 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 work sites 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

Demonstrated ability in the following leadership competencies


- Builds and Maintains Effective Relationships

- Develops Self and Others

- Builds Effective Teams

- Courageous Leadership

- Managing Vision and Purpose

- Business Acumen

- Drive for Results

- Customer focus

- Decision Quality

Minimum Qualifications


- Degree related to Computer Science, Computer Programming, Robotics, or Automation or industry related experience.

- 10+ years of proven experience with PLC programming and HMI development.

- Experience with standard communications protocols. (DeviceNet, Profibus, Profinet, CANBUS, etc.)

- Previous supervisory experience.

Preferred Qualifications


- 15+ years of proven experience with PLC programming related to drilling controls and automation.

- 5+ years of LabVIEW development experience.

- Working knowledge of VFD/SCR drives, and related equipment used in the drilling industry, preferably Yaskawa VFDs.

- Proven experience in Omron PLC programming using CX-One programming software.

Additional Details
This position requires the person to be able to work in a time sensitive, high visible role and regularly travel as needed to support business units and visit work sites. It may also require extended travel to remote locations and/or overnight stay(s) during variable hours. Variable work hours include hours worked on the weekend, on holiday s, and hours to travel within and outside of the assigned region. The Director must work with an emphasis on planning, multitasking and prioritization to maximize efficiency of the team. Must be able to work closely with others and manage customer interaction in a professional manner. Ability to safely navigate work sites with occasional walking, climbing, standing, stepping, etc., during normal operating conditions (day/night, outdoor hot/cold weather) and while utilizing designated personal protective equipment (PPE)..