Controls Engineer

Genex Systems is looking for a Controls Engineer to support the Center Maintenance, Operations, and Engineering (CMOE) contract at NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, VA.

This position is part of a small team that supports any control system at any wind-tunnel, lab or test facility on Center.  This person will support PLCs and a variety of other controllers that compress air to 6000 psi, move air at Mach speeds or control temperatures down to -250°F.  A combination of old and new, software and hardware, the work is hands-on, varied and unique.

Responsibilities:

The selected candidate will work alone or with a team to provide controls services to the wind tunnels and research facilities at the NASA Langley.  These services include trouble-shooting, repair, replacement, programming, configuration, documentation and checkout control systems and components.  In addition to “break-fix” services, the candidate may also work on controls-related projects for improvements, added functions, or new capabilities.  This work may start with project planning, writing specifications or making budget-schedule estimations.  It will include project completion requiring system design, graphical user interface building, programming, equipment layout and procurement, system configuration, and drawing reviews.  Hands-on work will include system checkout, equipment configuration, troubleshooting, repair and system operation.  In most cases, the projects will require clear and concise documentation.  The task will involve interaction with fellow team members, other internal service providers, sub-contractors, the operational staff of the facilities and the NASA client. The candidate will need to conduct meetings and reviews with these parties, clearly communicating goals and objectives to engage these groups for the project’s success.  The candidate must be able to juggle multiple tasks, while working in a dynamic environment in which priorities change frequently.  The successful candidate will be self-motivated in their work habits, show initiative in tackling new work, and exercise and communicate sound technical judgment.

Qualifications:

U.S. Citizenship required. BS degree from an ABET accredited engineering school and at least five (5) years of practical work experience in controls, electronics, data acquisition systems or similar roles. Academic study in electronics, mechanical systems, controls theory, manufacturing, or aerodynamics desired.  Mechanical or electrical engineers preferred.

Experience with process controllers, specifically Allen-Bradley and Rockwell Software required.  Experience with general programming techniques required. Experience in an industrial, laboratory or manufacturing facility desired.  Experience in system design, equipment installation and system startup desired.  Any experience with securing industrial networking systems is a plus.  Experience with hydraulics is a plus. 

Essential Functions:

Work Environment

An office or Control Room environment is the typical work area. Travel between various facilities and test sites on Center is required.  Project implementations or troubleshooting events will be in an industrial or laboratory environment.   May be exposed to areas of high voltage, high noise levels, hazardous propellants, explosives, chemicals and industrial facilities.  (Appropriate PPE and training will be provided for all conditions.)

Equipment and Machine:

Software Tools: PLC Ladder Logic and other IEC 61131-3 languages, FactoryTalk View, LabVIEW, C/C++, MS Office [Word, Excel, Outlook, Visio], AutoCAD or equivalent, Matlab/Simulink

Hardware platforms: Microsoft PC, Linux, National Instruments, Allen-Bradley PLCs [PLC-5, SLC, CompactLogix, ControlLogix], Allen-Bradley PanelViews, AB/ABB Drives

Field Devices: programmable controllers, pneumatic valves, programmable valves, standalone PID loop controllers, Flex IO

Communications Protocol: TCP/IP, RS-232, IEEE-488, OPC UA

Familiarity and use of safety and personal protective equipment

Physical Requirements:

Must have sufficient mobility to enter all areas of wind tunnel and test facilities.  The ability to enter into confined spaces, crawl into or onto various assemblies while maintaining a clear vision of safety is required. Potential exposure to high noise levels, hazardous chemicals, propellants and the like. Appropriate PPE and training will be provided for all conditions. Must be able to walk, stand, bend, twist and sit for extended periods as well as climb, crawl, and lift up to 35 lbs.

Attendance:

Regular attendance mandatory (100%)

Overtime/work outside normal schedule required (<15%) Travel required («5%)

Other Essential Functions: 
US. Citizenship required

Valid Real ID compliant identification - www.dhs.gov/real-id

Must be able to complete and maintain a NASA background check

Must be able to work in a team atmosphere

Must put forward professional behavior that enhances productivity and promotes teamwork and cooperation

Grooming and dress must be appropriate for the position and must not impose a safety/risk hazard to the employee or others

The work environment requires the ability to cooperate and work with individuals at all levels of the company and the client

Must be able to balance scope, schedule, and budget to ensure program success

Employees will exercise diligence when developing a Safe Plan of Action (SPA) for each task performed. Your SPA is a Company provided tool to be used for the prevention of incidents, accidents, and injuries; as such, it is the most important tool that you are required to use.