Controls and Automation Support Technician

Patterson-UTI · Houston

The Controls and Automation Support Technician works with subject matter experts in the Controls and Automation department to support new products. Individuals hired into this role take part in a training program structured to make them experts in [system architecture, hardware, software, networking, remote access, etc.] in order to effectively support the Company’s EcoCell battery energy storage technologies, Cortex automation platforms, and proprietary drilling rig control systems.

The Controls and Automation Support Technician serves as a primary member of technology product teams responsible for the design, development, commissioning and support of new controls and automation system technologies. They travel to drilling rig field locations to perform a variety of controls related service and maintenance activities. Activities include servicing, repairing, troubleshooting, adjusting, testing, and downloading to drilling rig controls and automation systems. Additional duties include training and mentoring crews on EcoCell, Cortex, and drilling rig controls systems, coordinating software and hardware related updates on rigs, and providing appropriate feedback to the jobsite manager and Controls and Automation Manager.

Detailed Description:

Work with resident subject matter experts to become proficient in supporting new technology products
Perform controls and systems based inspections, services, and repairs on new technology products and drilling rig control systems
Update software and firmware on various types of PLC’s, switches, routers, HMI’s, VFD’s, generator controls, and other components that comprise the drilling rig control systems
Install and commission new EcoCell, Cortex and drilling rig control systems
Troubleshoot electrical, controls, and systems based issues via phone and while onsite
Assist with development and conduct training with operational crews in preventative maintenance checks and services, including how to properly conduct basic and intermediate repairs
Test and diagnose electrical and electronic components and coordinate for the repair of the system or systems
Provide recommendations on product improvements and enhancements
Supervise maintenance related projects on the rig with the rig crew or third parties
Conduct inventories of critical hardware and work with third party vendors to keep minimum parts requirements
Assist with the development of critical spare and replacement parts listings
Remotely monitor issues and conduct root cause and trend analysis

Job Requirements:

Ability to safely navigate drilling rig work sites with occasional walking, climbing, standing, stepping, etc. during normal rig operating conditions (day/night, outdoor, hot/cold weather, etc.)
Ability to display core competencies of electrical theory
In depth knowledge and understanding of PLCs, VFDs, MCCs, HMIs, single- and 3-phrase systems, fiber optics, network systems, switches, etc.
Ability to utilize a variety of electrical-related tools (e.g. oscilloscopes, voltmeters, multi-meters, power meters, signal generators, frequency counters, etc.
Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and other technical documents
Ability to upload software configurations for PLCs and other controls-related systems
Must possess intermediate to advanced level computer skills with a proven ability to utilize Microsoft Office applications, e.g. MS Word, Power Point, Project, Visio, Excel, etc. and other MS software applications
Lift and carry 20 pounds independently while walking on uneven surfaces
Bend, stoop, kneel, twist, and crawl occasionally during visits to field and operational work areas
Limited to moderate use of a variety of hand and power tools to perform a range of mechanically and electrically oriented functions
Clear vision to judge near and far distances to maintain awareness of, watch, and report ongoing work activities to coworkers and third parties
Accurately recall information over short and long term memory
Stay alert and focused, including during occasional extended work periods
Demonstrate clear written and verbal communication skills and ability to promptly give, and follow, directions when working with others
Physical ability to immediately respond to emergency situations
Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all designated times
Knowledge of oil and gas field components, including software and hardware
Established interpersonal skills including ability to interact productively with coworkers, customers, and 3rd parties
Proficiency with written and oral communication
Ability to regularly travel (50-75%) to visit work sites and support business units; may occasionally require extended travel to remote locations and/or overnight stay(s) outside normal office hours

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED
2+ years relevant work experience with electrical and controls based systems (degree in related field may serve in leu of experience)
State-issued driver’s license and be eligible to drive a Company vehicle, including ability to meet requirements of Company's Vehicle Use Agreement and Driving Policy

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a computer-/electrical-related field
Professional work experience with Omron/Amphion Controls
Experience with Yaskawa, GE, and ABB VFD systems
3+ years’ experience in oilfield services

Additional Details:

This position requires work both indoors and outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions, including precipitation, cold / heat, high wind, and turbulent conditions. The Technician will be regularly exposed to the typical conditions of the local area where the rig is located.

The Technician must work with an emphasis on safety for themselves and others including coworkers and third parties. They must be willing to work extended schedules that will include working days; and occasionally nights, weekends and holidays. Frequent travel to other Company offices and drilling rig work sites, often in remote locations, is required during normal rig operating conditions (day/night, outdoor hot/cold weather), and employee will be expected to properly use designated personal protective equipment (PPE)

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Patterson-UTI is committed to a workplace free from discrimination and harassment, offering equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of personal characteristics protected by law. Employees are encouraged to report any concerns through multiple channels.

The Technology Support Technician works with subject matter experts in the Controls and Automation department to support new products. Individuals hired into this role take part in a training program structured to make them experts in [system architecture, hardware, software, networking, remote access, etc.] in order to effectively support the Company’s EcoCell battery energy storage technologies, Cortex automation platforms, and proprietary drilling rig control systems.

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