Principal SCADA Engineer

Power your Future with Qualus as a Principal SCADA Engineer in our Communications & SCADA Engineering department! We are seeking an experienced SCADA Engineer to support commissioning, testing, and implementation of SCADA systems in the field. This hands-on role focuses on RTU integration, PLC configuration, and diagnostics across utility, hydro, and power environments. Technicians will be embedded at client sites to support field operations and ensure reliable performance of critical infrastructure systems. If you’re ready to bring technical precision to impactful energy projects, we encourage you to apply.

This position is considered remote with approximately 25% travel to client sites as needed.

Responsibilities

• Commission and test SCADA RTU systems for replacement, improvement, and separation projects.
• Create and modify PLC programs using Ladder Logic, Structured Text, and Functional Block Diagrams.
• Configure and troubleshoot communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, DNP3, OPC UA).
• Support integration of SCADA systems with platforms such as OSI PI and AVEVA.
• Conduct system diagnostics and collaborate with field teams, clients, and vendors to resolve issues.
• Assist with the development of test procedures, field documentation, and technical reporting.
• Apply a working knowledge of SCADA architecture within utility and power environments.
• Ensure NERC CIP-004 compliance, including background check requirements.
• Travel extensively to client sites (50-90%) as project schedules require.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field (or 10+ years of equivalent utility industry experience) preferred.
• 10+ years of engineering design and field experience commissioning and testing SCADA RTU systems.
• Familiarity with PLC platforms such as Allen Bradley and Modicon.
• Strong understanding of SCADA architecture and automation protocols.
• Experience with AVEVA/Wonderware, OSI PI, or similar SCADA platforms is a plus.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office and basic scripting (Python, JavaScript, VBScript) is a plus.
• Strong communication, troubleshooting, and documentations skills.
• Must pass a NERC-level background check.
• Must be available for extended on-site work M-F as needed.

Qualus benefits offered include Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short and Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays, for those who qualify.

Qualus is a leading pure-play power solutions firm and innovator at the forefront of power infrastructure transformation, with differentiated capabilities across grid modernization, resiliency, security, and sustainability. The firm partners with utilities, commercial, industrial, data center, and government clients, and renewable and energy storage developers, offering comprehensive solutions through boutique and integrated advisory, planning, engineering, digital solutions, program management, and specialized field services. Qualus also provides software and technology enabled services and develops breakthrough solutions for critical power industry challenges such as distributed and variable resource integration, emergency management, and secure data exchange. The firm has over 1,800 professionals, with offices throughout the U.S. and Canada.