PLC/HMI Application Department Manager - TX

The Applications Department Manager is a technical subject matter expert as well as a working manager of resources directly reporting to him/her. The Applications Department Manager will report directly to the Applications Department Director and is accountable and responsible for effectively managing direct reports, supporting, implementing, and deploying core business improvement initiatives, and increasing the operational performance of the HMI team. This role is Hybrid.

MEASURES OF SUCCESS

• Effective utilization of all domestic and remote Applications department resources across regions reporting to the Applications Department Manager.

• Successful engagement and collaboration with Remote Technical Team to ensure accuracy and timeliness of deliverables.

• Lead and manage each assigned project, ensuring delivery within the contracted scope, schedule, and budget, while continuously improving project efficiency, customer experience, and profitability. Consistently exceed key performance indicators related to customer satisfaction, profitability, and quality of deliverables.

• Ensure consistent execution across the entire project portfolio.

• Identification and development of training plans and/or job assignments that align with organization needs and professional development of resources.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Participate in the establishment and deployment of the company’s project execution Standards and Best Practices.

• Oversee the professional development of all direct reports.

• Responsible for the quality control and periodic auditing of work performed by Applications department resources during project execution as it relates to the established Standards and Best Practices.

• Participate in Monthly Management meetings to ensure optimal operation and success of the company.

• While executing projects, responsible for complete delivery and accuracy of the standard Applications department deliverables, including, but not limited to PLC programs, HMI applications, HMI colors, tag standards, data logging standards, security standards, HMI architecture diagrams, etc.

• Aide direct reports by monitoring and helping to manage project risks in collaboration with the project manager through proper risk management planning.

• Adherence to defined organization work processes and tools.

• Aide in the development of an environment that encourages and rewards new ways to advance our PLC and HMI solutions product offering and company.

• Develop ways to attract and retain top talent by maintaining a positive and encouraging work environment.

• Participate in the interview / hiring of PLC and HMI resources to assure proper staffing levels and competencies required to successfully meet operational requirements.

• Provide technical assistance as required by Sales and Marketing for promotional development and preparation of sales proposals and cost estimates.

• Provide support to both the sales and the Applications department in the selection process of PLC hardware, SCADA software, technology, security, best-practices, etc. commonly used in the water and wastewater industry.

• Establish recommendations on PLC and SCADA architectures, best practices, and standards.

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS

• The Applications Department Manager reports to the Applications Department Director.

• The Applications Department Manager works directly with the Project Managers, Project Execution resources, Field Managers and Technicians, and RVPs to ensure alignment across all disciplines.

• The Applications Department Manager supervises all resources assigned to them and assigns/supervises their work.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, mechatronics, or electrical engineering is preferred plus a minimum of 7+ years of experience in PLC and HMI/SCADA programming with 5 years of experience specifically in the Water & Wastewater industry. A proven track record of leadership and progressive management responsibility is required. Excellent communications skills and the ability to build and constructively lead teams is essential.

Must have knowledge and experience with Microsoft desktop and server operating systems, server roles including Remote Desktop Services, VMware Workstation, and configuring VM-based programming environments.

Must possess the ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, contract documents, and P&IDs. A strong understanding of basic SCADA network principles and design is required, along with a solid familiarity of PLCs, PLCrelated hardware, OITs, and HMI/SCADA platforms.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Ability to communicate orally with management and other co-workers is crucial. Regular use of a telephone, e-mail, and other digital tools for communication is essential. Sitting for extended periods in front of a computer monitor is common. Hearing within normal ranges is necessary. Adequate vision is needed. Lifting of computer servers, workstations, and peripherals is expected. Good manual dexterity for setting up computer equipment and attaching associated cables.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The job is performed both indoors at the office and at the jobsite. Activities include extended periods of sitting and extensive work at a computer monitor. This job includes the potential of working irregular hours with on-call availability to troubleshoot project startup and warranty problems.

TRAVEL

Up to 25% of travel may be required.