Principal Controls Engineer (PLC/SCADA – Renewables)- Remote
Location: Remote (U.S.) with Travel to Juno Beach, FL
Duration: Contract (11+ Months)
Schedule: Monday–Friday (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Travel: Up to 25% (Project sites + Juno Beach, FL)
Driving Required: Yes
Overview
Our client, a leading energy infrastructure and renewable energy developer, is seeking a Lead Controls & SCADA Engineer to support utility-scale energy projects across solar, BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems), and power generation assets.
This is a high-impact, remote role with periodic travel, where you will serve as the technical lead for controls systems, PLC programming, and SCADA integration. You will play a critical role in ensuring system performance, grid compliance, and successful commissioning of large-scale energy projects.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead design, development, and deployment of PLC and SCADA systems for utility-scale energy projects
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Act as the technical authority for controls engineering, system integration, and commissioning
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Develop and support:
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PLC programming (Schneider Electric preferred)
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SCADA systems (Ignition platform)
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HMI development and validation
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Industrial protocols (Modbus, DNP3)
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Oversee integration across:
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Inverters
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BESS systems
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Substations
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Grid control and monitoring systems
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Ensure compliance with:
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PPA, LGIA, and OEM testing requirements
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Utility and interconnection standards
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Lead and support:
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FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing)
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SAT (Site Acceptance Testing)
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Commissioning and system validation
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Troubleshoot and resolve complex system and integration issues
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Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineering, SCADA, construction, and operations
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Provide oversight to vendors, contractors, and third-party integrators
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Support documentation, reporting, and adherence to engineering standards
Required Qualifications
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Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
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11–15+ years of experience in PLC programming and industrial control systems
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Strong experience with Schneider Electric PLC platforms
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Deep knowledge of:
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SCADA systems (Ignition preferred)
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HMI development
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Industrial communication protocols (Modbus, DNP3)
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Strong understanding of:
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Power systems and grid integration
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Utility-scale renewable energy projects
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Experience with:
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FAT/SAT testing
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Commissioning processes
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System integration
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Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
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Experience with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and inverter technologies
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Familiarity with NERC CIP cybersecurity standards
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Experience working with interconnection processes and utility requirements
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Proven leadership experience on large-scale energy projects