Senior Engineer, SCADA

Job Description

At TransAlta, we don't just generate electricity, we generate opportunity. As one of Canada's largest publicly traded power generators, we've been powering communities for over 100 years across Canada, the U.S., and Australia. Our diverse energy portfolio and passionate team are driving the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

We believe in the power of purpose, the strength of collaboration, and the value of continuous learning. If you're ready to make a real impact in a dynamic industry, you bring the energy and we'll provide the platform.

For more information about TransAlta, visit our website at www.transalta.com.

About the Role

TransAlta is seeking an experienced Senior Engineer, SCADA to provide technical oversight, guidance, and expertise for SCADA and Operational Technology services between TransAlta's operating sites and end users.

This role involves working closely with field teams and multiple support teams to ensure reliable operation of these critical systems. Accountabilities will focus on providing system diagnostics, troubleshooting, risk assessment and mitigation to support safe, compliant and reliable operations. Responsibilities will include developing strategies for integrating sites into the centralized SCADA system, implementing cybersecurity measures, and maintaining SCADA and OT environments.

This is a full-time, safety-sensitive position located at our head office in downtown Calgary, AB, with the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule.

A Day in the Life

• Diagnose and troubleshoot SCADA systems for remote control and monitoring of TransAlta's operating assets.
• Liaise with AESO for daily technical support on operational issues and EMS
• Respond to equipment issues and provide emergency support for outages and failures
• Specify, install, commission, and maintain SCADA system computers, PLC and DCS systems and HMI software
• Develop maintenance plans for SCADA system software and hardware
• Modify HMI/SCADA applications, including graphics, tag databases, and reports
• Update SCADA system standards, procedures, guidelines, and test documents.
• Identify and mitigate SCADA system risks
• Collaborate with IT/OT networking and security teams to ensure system reliability and security
• Conduct Root Cause Failure Analysis and recommend corrective actions
• Manage long-term planning for equipment maintenance and capital projects
• Support engineering processes like technical change management, alarm management, and reliability assessments
• Implement innovative solutions to improve SCADA system performance and reliability
• Apply policies, procedures, standards, and regulatory requirements relevant to power generation
• Proactively complete assignments, ranging from straightforward to complex
• Work independently, providing guidance to less experienced staff
• Exercise judgment based on multiple information sources
• Multi-task and prioritize to achieve long-term goals
• Provide technical leadership for SCADA systems and applications

About You

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering and/ or equivalent background is required
• 5+ years of industrial field operations technology and/or SCADA experience
• Certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, Nutanix, Security vendors, or similar experience in computer network architecture knowledge
• Must be registered as a Professional Engineer in good standing with APEGA, or other provincial Professional Engineering Regulatory Association and qualifies for inter-provincial mobility
• Knowledge of data communications protocols
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience working in a power generation or industrial facility
• Specialized training, certifications, or experience in discipline related areas (i.e. Generation operation, generator protection, power plant performance, SCADA Vendor training and certs etc.), is considered an asset

Other Requirements

• This is a safety sensitive position which will require successful completion of pre-employment testing as a condition of employment
• Ability to travel 20-30% to facilities

The Perks

• Competitive salary
• Annual and long-term incentives available for select roles
• Company-matching pension plan
• Flexible health benefits for you and your family
• Generous vacation and personal days
• Learning and development programs
• Employee recognition and rewards
• Annual wellness allowance

Explore our careers site to see how we support your growth and wellbeing www.transalta.com/careers.

Our Culture

At TransAlta, we're driven by a Culture of Results, Learning, and Purpose. We prioritize psychological safety, wellbeing, inclusion, and belonging - creating a space where everyone can thrive. We believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation and progress, and we're committed to building a workplace where you can be your authentic self.

Ready to Power Up With Us?

Excited about this role but don't meet every single requirement? We still encourage you to apply. Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for a job unless they meet every single qualification. You might just be the candidate we are looking for.

What to Expect

The successful candidate may be required to complete background checks appropriate to the role and may include criminal record, education and employment verification or credit checks. 'Safety sensitive positions' will be required to complete pre-employment testing.

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, only those progressing will be contacted.