SCADA Controls Automation Project Engineer

About the role

You will own the full lifecycle execution of SCADA and automation projects for water and wastewater clients, ensuring alignment with stringent regulatory standards and client expectations. In this capacity, you will translate complex technical requirements into actionable project plans that drive system reliability and operational efficiency. You will act as the primary technical leader on automation initiatives, coordinating cross-functional teams to deliver solutions that enhance control system performance. You will foster collaborative relationships with municipal operators, guiding them through system implementations while uncovering opportunities for process optimization. You will leverage your expertise to anticipate risks, develop mitigation strategies, and maintain project momentum from initial concept to final commissioning. You will champion continuous improvement by applying best practices in automation engineering to support sustainable and resilient water infrastructure. You will serve as a visible role model for innovation, demonstrating how thoughtful engineering directly improves community health and environmental protection.

Key facts

What you'll do

Conduct comprehensive preconstruction assessments to define project scope, deliverables, and resource requirements for SCADA and automation initiatives.

Perform detailed technical analyses to ensure control system designs comply with all applicable regulatory standards and client operational protocols.

Lead kickoff meetings and project planning sessions to establish clear timelines, milestones, and expectations with municipal and internal stakeholders.

Develop and maintain robust project documentation, including design specifications, interface control documents, and configuration standards.

Coordinate with operations staff and technical teams to integrate SCADA systems with existing water, wastewater, and remediation infrastructure.

Oversee system integration activities, verifying that all automation components function cohesively within the broader project environment.

Provide on-site leadership during SCADA project startups, conducting rigorous testing and validation to confirm system performance.

Mentor junior engineers and technical staff, fostering a culture of technical excellence and professional development within the project team.

Monitor project progress against budget and schedule, implementing corrective actions to keep deliverables on track and within financial parameters.

Serve as the primary liaison between clients and internal stakeholders, ensuring transparent communication and proactive issue resolution throughout the project lifecycle.

Identify opportunities to enhance operational efficiency and propose innovative solutions that improve long-term system reliability.

Support business development efforts by contributing technical insights during proposal development and client discussions.

Maintain a strong focus on safety, quality, and compliance, ensuring all project activities adhere to Woodard & Curran's rigorous standards.

Act as a trusted advisor to clients, guiding strategic discussions around future automation projects and infrastructure enhancements.

Requirements

Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, or a closely related technical discipline as the foundational qualification for this role.

A minimum of eight years of progressively responsible experience in water, wastewater, or industrial automation project delivery is mandatory for success in this position.

You must demonstrate a thorough understanding of SCADA systems, control logic, and automation technologies as they apply to municipal and industrial water infrastructure.

It is essential to have direct experience managing multiple project responsibilities while maintaining strict adherence to scope, schedule, and budget constraints.

You should possess a proven track record of interfacing effectively with municipal clients, consultants, and regulatory agencies throughout complex project environments.

The ability to interpret technical documents, design specifications, and operational manuals is required to ensure accurate implementation of control strategies.

Strong written and verbal communication skills are non-negotiable, as you will regularly convey technical information to diverse audiences at all organizational levels.

You must be comfortable working within a matrixed organizational structure, balancing project demands with firm-wide priorities and resource allocation.

Nice to have

Experience with water, wastewater, or industrial process control systems is strongly preferred for this role.

Familiarity with relevant regulatory frameworks and compliance requirements specific to New England water infrastructure is highly valued.

Proficiency with common automation platforms and control system software will enhance your effectiveness in leading project execution.

A background in mentoring junior staff and supporting professional growth within a technical team is encouraged.

Practical notes

Travel: Regional travel up to 80%. Occasional overnight travel.