Process Control Systems Specialist (SCADA Specialist / PLC Programmer)
About this Role
Keep the control systems running that deliver clean water to 410,000+ people
Newport News Waterworks, owned and operated by the City of Newport News and serving more than 410,000 people across Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, York County, and part of James City County, is hiring a Process Control Systems Specialist to monitor and maintain the computerized control systems, PLCs, RTUs, SCADA servers, and information systems that run our water treatment operations. If you work in industrial controls or SCADA and want to apply your skills to critical infrastructure that matters, this is a role with real purpose and stability.
Key Responsibilities
Install, configure, program, maintain, and troubleshoot Allen-Bradley PLCs, RTUs, and SCADA servers and workstations
Administer SQL Server, control system servers, workstations, and peripherals, and modify the SQL database as needed
Establish and run backup and restoration procedures for systems and network data, including in disaster situations
Maintain system security by limiting access to appropriate personnel
Design and develop HMI graphics and database tags for water treatment operations
Provide technical support to operations staff, respond to help desk requests, and resolve user issues
Develop reports and graphics, recommend applications, and help build standard operating procedures for the process control system
Qualifications
Associate’s degree in Computer/Information Science, Engineering, or a related field, with 3 to 5 years of related experience working with computer systems and PLCs (or an equivalent combination of education and experience). Bachelor’s degree preferred
Knowledge of PLCs, analog and digital instrumentation, and RTUs
Understanding of Relay Ladder Logic (how to read, develop, and debug RLL programs) and the ability to program and tune open and closed loop control circuits
Knowledge of client/server environments, Windows (and OpenVMS), and high-speed networking including wireless, fiber optics, and gigabit Ethernet
General knowledge of electrical circuitry, National Electrical Code standards, and PLC input/output wiring (4-20mA loops, dry contacts, relay outputs)
A valid driver’s license with an acceptable record
Please note: This position is subject to a background check and a valid driver’s license, and requires satisfactory results from an audio exam. The role involves some physical work and exposure to plant conditions, including confined spaces, machinery, electrical currents, and varying temperatures.
Benefits
Join a recognized regional leader in water service, known for water quality, customer service, financial stewardship, and environmental protection. We back our people with a benefits package built to support you and your family:
Virginia Retirement System (VRS) pension, plus a Retirement Health Savings Account and an optional Empower 457(b) deferred comp plan
Affordable medical, dental, and vision coverage, with HSA and FSA options and your choice of coverage start date
Generous paid time off: 19.5 personal days, 9 medical leave days, and 12 paid holidays per year
Tuition reimbursement and ongoing training
Life and short and long term disability insurance, plus an Employee Assistance Program and free Calm Premium
RENEW employee wellness program, fitness center member rates, and an employee discount program
A clear path to grow, with a Senior Process Control Systems Specialist track in Waterworks and opportunities across 30 plus City departments
For details about employee benefits, please visit: https://www.nnva.gov/498/Benefits
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply online through the City of Newport News job site. Please be sure to complete all sections of the application, including your work history and education. We look forward to learning more about you.
Apply here: https://www.nnva.gov/193/Apply-for-a-Job