Automation Engineering Manager Jobs in Waco, TX (NOW HIRING)

Kizer Energy is seeking an experienced DCS Automation Lead to support our client, Nexus, on the Hubbard Data Center Project in Hubbard, Texas. This critical leadership role is responsible for directing all automation, controls, and Distributed Control System (DCS) activities throughout the project lifecycle, from installation and system integration through commissioning, startup, and final turnover.

The successful candidate will oversee the completion and commissioning of the Honeywell DCS, integration of package PLCs, SCADA interfaces, telecommunications networks, and other control systems essential to facility operations. Working closely with engineering, construction, commissioning, vendors, and operations teams, the DCS Automation Lead will ensure all automation systems are fully integrated, tested, validated, and operationally ready.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

• Lead the installation, configuration, testing, commissioning, and turnover of the Honeywell Distributed Control System (DCS) for the hyperscale data center project.
• Oversee DCS architecture, control strategies, alarm management, historian configuration, graphics development, and system validation activities.
• Coordinate Honeywell vendor teams and ensure automation activities align with overall project schedules and commissioning milestones.
• Manage the integration of package PLCs, including generators, chillers, UPS systems, cooling towers, switchgear, and other critical facility equipment into the DCS and SCADA environment.
• Validate communication networks and protocols, including Modbus, OPC, Ethernet/IP, ProfiNet, and other industrial control system interfaces.
• Ensure accurate mapping and functionality of control logic, I/O points, alarms, trends, and operating sequences across all automation platforms.
• Oversee the installation, testing, and commissioning of telecom and network infrastructure supporting automation systems, including fiber networks, control network switches, redundant communications, and time synchronization systems.
• Verify network reliability, system redundancy, cybersecurity compliance, and operational resilience requirements.
• Coordinate closely with engineering, construction, commissioning, operations, vendors, and system integrators to ensure automation readiness and successful system turnover.
• Support system walkdowns, punch list management, readiness reviews, and achievement of Mechanical Completion (MC), Pre-Functional Testing (PFT), commissioning, and turnover milestones.
• Manage automation vendors, telecom contractors, PLC suppliers, and system integrators to ensure compliance with project standards and installation requirements.
• Review and approve vendor submittals, Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) results, Site Acceptance Test (SAT) results, and commissioning documentation.
• Maintain and verify automation documentation, including control narratives, logic diagrams, network drawings, I/O lists, loop sheets, and test records.
• Ensure all automation and controls documentation is accurate, complete, audit-ready, and compliant with project turnover requirements.
• Prepare and deliver regular progress reports, track automation readiness metrics, monitor punch list status, and identify schedule risks impacting commissioning and startup activities.
• Develop and implement mitigation plans to address automation, controls, and network integration issues affecting project delivery.

Job Requirements

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls/Automation Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline preferred.
• 8-12+ years of experience in automation, controls, or DCS commissioning within industrial, mission-critical, power generation, or data center environments.
• Hands-on experience with Honeywell Experion DCS systems required.
• Proven experience integrating package PLCs, SCADA systems, telecom infrastructure, and industrial control networks.
• Experience supporting commissioning, startup, system testing, and facility turnover activities.
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate multiple vendors, contractors, and multidisciplinary project teams.

Certifications and Training

• Honeywell DCS certifications (Experion, C300, or related platforms) highly preferred.
• PLC vendor certifications (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider Electric, or equivalent) are a plus.
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification required.
• Must meet all site access requirements for the Hubbard Apex Data Center.
• Additional client-specific HSE onboarding and safety training may be required.

Technical Skills

• Strong expertise in DCS architecture, control strategies, alarm management, and process automation.
• Ability to interpret P&IDs, control narratives, logic diagrams, network drawings, and engineering documentation.
• Proficiency with industrial communication protocols, including Modbus TCP, OPC UA, Ethernet/IP, and ProfiNet.
• Knowledge of automation cybersecurity principles, network architecture, and system redundancy requirements.
• Skilled in troubleshooting PLC, DCS, communications, controls, and system integration issues.

Core Competencies

• Strong leadership, coordination, and project management skills.
• Advanced technical proficiency in automation, controls, and industrial networking systems.
• Excellent documentation, quality control, and organizational abilities.
• Effective communicator with engineering, construction, commissioning, operations, and vendor teams.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to perform effectively in fast-paced, high-pressure commissioning and startup environments.

Terms and Conditions

• Project Duration: Long-term assignment anticipated to last 2+ years, with project activities extending through approximately 2029.
• Start Date: September 1, 2026
• Work Schedule: Expected commitment of approximately 50-60 hours per week, depending on project demands and critical milestones.

Location

• Project Location: Hubbard Data Center Project, Hubbard, Texas.