Process Control Specialist

The Process Control Specialist is responsible for programming, operation and maintenance of the process control computer systems. This position performs the primary thinking encompassed by this job description, complies with all Company policies and procedures, and fully supports Company goals of continuous improvement and operational excellence at strategic and tactical levels including reviewing area of responsibility for improvement opportunities to initiate projects or communicate ideas to management as well as active participation on project teams. Essential job duties: Maintain existing process computer and Aspen Data Historian systems and implement new computer systems as required to assure that Company meets key plant goals and objectives for Personnel Health/Safety, Environmental Protection, Raw Material Usage, Chlorine Production, and Operating costs. Diagnose problems with computer and process control systems, confers with system vendors, run basic hardware diagnostics, and makes decisions on repairing or replacing failed systems. Evaluate new systems and technologies for incorporation into process control systems. Recommend upgrades and resolve technical problems with new installations. Work with the Process Engineering Group to develop long-term goals for process parameters. Program microprocessor based systems to interface process control computers to conventional data collection and output devices such as gas chromatographs, scanivalves and opto-22 isolation boards. Assist with process computer hardware and software design, programming environmental data collection, alarming and report generation. Develop system standards for software and maintenance tasks to minimize the need for unique and custom programming efforts. Help Production Personnel troubleshoot computer process control systems. Help Instrument Techniciansresolve interface problems between process instrumentation and process computers. Collect & evaluate operational data to develop key process control strategies. Maintain process PLCs and develop/maintain PLC equipment interlock shutdown systems. Minimum qualifications: Associate's degree or 2-year technical diploma in Instrumentation, Electrical Technology, Automation, or related discipline. Minimum 2 years of industrial automation programming experience OR 5 years as a technician with proven programming proficiency. Knowledge of control systems design and operation. Working knowledge of digital electronics. Experience with board level computer system design and programming. Intimate knowledge of software protocol and communications driver logic. Extensive knowledge of operating systems design and function. Strong communication skills for team coordination. Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation. #J-18808-Ljbffr Westlake Chemical