Software, Engineer at First Quantum Minerals (FQM)

Overall Job Purpose

The software engineer must be able to maintain existing control system software, be able to add new software functionality / devices, analyse control system problems and identify areas / systems that can help improve on the control system availability. Be proactive in continuous system and process control optimization.

Specific Job Responsibility

The specific tasks to be performed by the position holder will include;

Act as first responder to control room operation related problems,

Do troubleshooting that may arise from control system equipment failure or software modifications,

Assist in coordinating and executing the installation of new and retrofit control systems using SIEMENS PLC Controllers and I / O system,

Assist in scoping, coordinating and executing the design, development, documentation of advance control systems, DCS, PLC, HMI, and SCADA program code,

Assist in coordinating and executing the performance testing of operating systems, electrical or electronic communication system and inspection of equipment to detect potential defects

Update and do SCADA development and changes,

Configure system hardware, software and SCADA to match field related modifications

Provide technical direction and support to trainees,

Understand the control philosophy of the process plant,

Perform standby duties as required,

Adhere to site DCS standards and good practises

Any other task as may be delegated upon by the software Superintendent

Job Specific Competencies

Good knowledge of digital electronics,

Excellent knowledge of Siemens PCS7, Siemens TIA and Step 7

Working knowledge and understanding of network communication, including TCP/IP, Profibus DP, Profibus PA and Modbus systems; including installation and testing,

Understanding of system drawings, including GA’s, Wiring schematics, termination diagrams and P&ID’s (Piping and Instrumentation diagrams),

Excellent knowledge of STL, SCL, FBD, CFC’s and SFC,

Good knowledge of C, C++ or Visual Basic,

General knowledge in Osisoft PI Historian,

General knowledge in Advance control systems,

Good knowledge in OPC interfaces,

Strong technical skills related to instrumentation and control,

Must be familiar with industry bets practises (ISA),

Working knowledge for new control system installations and control system upgrades will be advantageous,

Must be able to use job specific hand tools,

Key Job Attributes

Excellent communication skills,

Self-disciplined, motivated and organized,

Organisational skills and the ability to prioritise your workload.,

Analytical and decision making skills,

Be able to perform under pressure,

Ability to perform troubleshooting on Automation and Control Systems will be advantageous,

Exceptional skills in the ability to prioritize workload,

Ability to work un-supervised on different projects simultaneously,

Ability to multi-task when executing different projects,

Experience required to perform in this job

Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automated control systems, complex software suites, analog and digital control systems, and Instrumentation with the usage of instruments for data recording and troubleshooting

Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering or related qualification;

Registered member of the Engineering Institute of Zambia (EIZ)

Ability to register as a member of the Engineering Registration Board of Zambia (ERB)