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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Systems Engineer - **Company:** Actalent - **Location:** Springfield, VA, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $114,000.0 - $183,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Systems Engineering, C++ (Programming Language), Communications Protocols, Information Systems, Databases, Scientific Data Archiving, Data Transmissions, Programming Tools, Monitoring of Systems, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), Interoperability, Microsoft SQL Server, Modbus, Software Requirements Analysis, Systems Integration, TCP/IP, Ansi Sql, Information Technology, HMI Screens, Process Control Systems, Programming Languages - **Published:** October 31, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.juju.com/job/1_actalent-ec02a7307b466a04594ecd034b58a763 ## About the Role Essential Skills + Hands-on experience with SCADA systems, including designing, integrating, and managing PLC-based SCADA infrastructure. + Proficiency in PLC programming using vendor-specific industrial programming languages. + Strong understanding of process control systems and industrial automation for gate stations and plant operations. + Experience implementing and supporting communication infrastructure across cellular, radio, and other media. + Working knowledge of communication protocols such as UDP, TCP/IP, Modbus, and BSAP. + Ability to develop and maintain HMI applications using vendor-specific programming tools. + Experience with MS SQL and ANSI SQL for database administration, data archiving, and reporting. + Experience in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Computer Systems, or a closely related technical discipline. + Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field. + Ability to troubleshoot complex control, communication, and data issues in an industrial environment. + Strong analytical and problem-solving skills applied to process control and automation challenges. Additional Skills & Qualifications + Experience with C++ or similar programming languages for automation-related development. + Familiarity with natural gas distribution, storage, or energy infrastructure operations. + Experience developing operation and maintenance procedures and technical documentation, including wiring schematics. + Exposure to cross-functional project work and coordination with IT, operations, and engineering teams. + Ability to evaluate new products and technologies and provide recommendations based on testing and analysis. + Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders. + Interest in working within an organization focused on delivering clean, affordable natural gas and innovative energy solutions. ## Description Controls/Automation Engineer | 5-days onsite in Alexandria, VA | Pay: 125k - 183k/yr | Permanent Position Job Description The Systems Engineer designs, programs, and supports industrial control and monitoring systems for natural gas gate stations and plant operations. This role focuses on PLC and HMI development, SCADA infrastructure, and communications systems to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient delivery of natural gas. The Systems Engineer collaborates with cross-functional teams to define system requirements, implement solutions, and maintain high standards of performance, compliance, and operational integrity. Responsibilities + Collaborate with internal organizations to gather and define system requirements using knowledge of process control systems, communication infrastructure, and information systems. + Design, develop, and test PLC code using vendor-specific industrial programming languages to automate gate station control and monitoring of flow, pressure, temperature, and odorization of natural gas. + Develop PLC control and monitoring logic for plant equipment including compressors, boilers, pumps, and valves to support peak shaving operations. + Implement and maintain diverse communication infrastructure to enable remote control and monitoring of gate station and plant systems across multiple media, including cellular, radio, and other communication channels. + Configure and support communication protocols such as UDP, TCP/IP, Modbus, and BSAP to ensure reliable data transfer and system interoperability. + Interface with communication vendors to troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve communication and protocol-related issues. + Develop HMI code using vendor-specific programming languages to provide intuitive graphical interfaces for the gas delivery and plant control systems. + Administer and develop code for MS SQL/ANSI SQL databases and vendor-specific data archiving applications to support reporting, analysis, historical reference, and regulatory compliance. + Perform system start-up operations to verify that requirements are met and to ensure all equipment operates within design parameters. + Collaborate closely with IT, Gas Control, and other departments to maintain system integrity, reliability, and security. + With guidance from more staff, perform project management functions, including coordinating resources from different departments to meet project timelines and objectives. + Develop detailed operation and maintenance procedures, programs, and standards, including wiring schematics and documentation for control and communication systems. + Research new products and technologies, conduct product evaluations and testing, and make recommendations to refine and improve process control and communication solutions. + Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance system performance, operational efficiency, and safety within the energy infrastructure.