Controls Specialist

Genex Systems is looking for a Controls Specialist 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. The successful candidate 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.

• 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, work breakdown structures, writing specifications or making budget-schedule estimations and 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
• Ability to create clear and concise documentation and interaction with fellow team members, other internal service providers, sub-contractors, the operational staff of the facilities and the NASA client
• The successful candidate will 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

Here’s What You’ll Need:

U.S. Citizenship required. Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance. Two (2) years of college with courses related to Electronics/Electrical Engineering, plus ten (10) years of related experience in controls, electronics and electrical support for a total of twelve (12) years of experience. Military electronics training may be substituted for a portion of the education requirement. Additional relevant education may be substituted for a portion of the experience.

Experience with process controllers, specifically Allen-Bradley 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 a plus. Experience with hydraulics a plus.

Essential Functions

Work Environment

• Office environment (10%).
• Test/Industrial Environment – May be exposed to areas of high noise levels, hazardous propellants, explosives, chemicals and industrial facilities. (85%)
• Travel between facilities and test operations may be required and may bring exposure to loud noise and potentially hazardous equipment and chemical operations. (5%)

(Appropriate PPE and training will be provided for all conditions.)

Equipment and Machine:

• Software Tools: PLC Ladder Logic, 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, ControlLogix], Allen-Bradley PanelViews
• Field Devices: programmable controllers, pneumatic valves, programmable valves
• Communications Protocol: TCP/IP, RS-232, IEEE-488
• Familiarity and use of safety and personal protective equipment

Physical Requirements:

Must have sufficient mobility to enter all areas of the wind tunnel. 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 35lbs (25%).

Attendance:

• Regular attendance mandatory (100%)
• Overtime/work outside normal schedule required (<20%)
• Travel required («5%)

Other Essential Functions:

U.S. Citizenship required. Valid driver’s license required. Must be able to work in a close-knit team atmosphere. Must put forward a 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 obtain and maintain a security clearance.