Principal - Automation Engineer

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Technical Leadership:

Automation and Control Systems Development:

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of automation and control systems for the smelting and adjacent processes.
• Oversee the integration of advanced sensors, hardware components, and new control logics to optimize process performance.

Process Understanding:

• Develop and maintain a deep understanding of the aluminum smelting process, including operation, process control, and maintenance aspects.
• Apply process knowledge to enhance automation solutions and improve efficiency.

Project Management:

R&D and Industrial Projects:

• Manage and lead both R&D projects for fast-developing technologies and systematic industrial projects for large-scale implementations.
• Employ agile methodologies for R&D setups and systematic approaches for industrial systems development.

CAPEX/OPEX Management:

• Prepare and manage budgets for projects, ensuring optimal allocation of CAPEX and OPEX resources.
• Monitor project expenditures and adjust plans as necessary to meet financial targets.

Timeline and Resource Management:

• Develop project plans with clear milestones and deliverables.
• Allocate team members effectively to meet project priorities and deadlines.

Team Leadership and Development:

Team Management:

• Lead a multidisciplinary team of engineers with various specializations such as hardware and electronics design, programming, robotics, etc.
• Foster a flexible team environment where members can move between areas based on project needs.

Skill Development:

• Encourage continuous learning and professional growth within the team.
• Promote staying updated with the latest developments in hardware, software, sensors, control, and automation industries.

Collaboration:

• Work closely with other teams and departments, including Modelling, Technology Engineering, Operations, Maintenance, and Digital Transformation.
• Facilitate strong collaboration within the team and with other departments, such as Technology Transfer and Digital Transformation, during industrial implementations.

Industrialization and Implementation:

Control System Enhancements:

• Lead the industrialization of new capabilities into the control system of reduction cells.
• Develop automation solutions for peripheral equipment interfaces, including PTMs and vehicles.

Technology Transfer Collaboration:

• Work closely with the Technology Transfer team to implement industrial designs for external clients.
• Ensure seamless transition from R&D projects to full-scale industrial applications.

Supplier and Stakeholder Management:

Supplier Relationships:

• Manage relationships with suppliers of hardware, software, sensors, and other equipment.
• Negotiate contracts, oversee procurement processes, and ensure timely delivery of components.

Stakeholder Communication:

• Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, including senior management, clients, and cross-functional teams.
• Present project updates, technical findings, and recommendations.

Innovation and Continuous Improvement:

Technology Scouting:

• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and advancements in automation and control systems.
• Evaluate new technologies for potential applications in the smelting and adjacent processes.

Process Optimization:

• Identify opportunities for improving process efficiency, safety, and environmental performance through automation.
• Implement innovative solutions to enhance operational excellence.

Technical Documentation and Reporting:

Documentation:

• Prepare detailed technical documentation, including specifications, functional requirements, manuals, instructions, and guides.
• Maintain comprehensive records of development activities and changes.

Reporting:

• Provide regular updates on projects progress and technical challenges.

Compliance and Quality Assurance:

Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensure all automation projects comply with industry standards, safety regulations, and company policies.

Quality Control:

• Implement quality assurance processes to maintain high standards in design, development, and implementation.
• Implement rigorous testing and validation procedures to verify the accuracy and reliability of new or modified applications or control logics.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies.

Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE):

• Promote and adhere to HSE policies and practices.
• Ensure all projects prioritize safety and environmental sustainability.

AUTHORITY / DECISION MAKING:

Team Leadership:

• Authority to lead the Process Automation & Control Systems team, making key decisions on automation system designs and implementations.
• Approve project plans, budgets, and resource allocations for automation projects.

System Integration:

• Make critical decisions regarding the integration of hardware, sensors, electronics, and robotics into control systems.
• Oversee the automation of peripheral equipment interfaces (e.g., PTMs, vehicles), ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance.

Supplier Management:

• Manage relationships with suppliers, negotiating contracts and making decisions on procurement of automation components.
• Approve vendor selections and oversee supplier performance to ensure quality and timely delivery.

Project Approval:

• Lead the development and approval of automation project documentation, ensuring compliance with technical and safety standards.
• Make decisions on the adoption of new automation technologies and methodologies to enhance process controllability and efficiency.

Strategic Decision-Making:

• Make strategic decisions on automation architecture and technology adoption to align with organizational goals.
• Approve comprehensive automation project plans and ensure they meet technical and business objectives.