Process Control Engineer

The Process Control Engineer at Smurfit WestRock is responsible for providing technological and engineering expertise to implement new process control technology and equipment, evaluate and resolve problems with existing control systems, and design and program changes as needed. The role ensures control systems are deployed to maximize production, cost efficiency, quality, and safe, environmentally sound operations. The position reports to the E&I Maintenance Superintendent and requires collaboration with Operations, Engineering, and external vendors to deliver effective control solutions.

Responsibilities

• Utilize modern process control theory to design and configure control systems for new and existing processes
• Assist project engineers and managers with planning, development, and implementation of capital projects
• Plan and coordinate system upgrades and migrations, including development of control logic and system configuration with Operating Department and control system suppliers; participate in factory checkout to confirm design and functionality
• Write operator training manuals and support control system operator training
• Generate procedures for Maintenance, Operations, and peers
• Develop job scopes with Operations and Engineering; write functional specifications for vendor quotations
• Lead process improvement initiatives focused on customer value, cost savings, and process optimization
• Proactively develop solutions for short- and long-term issues using project management skills
• Design and implement control system logic based on process knowledge, safety and environmental requirements, operational needs, and maintenance requirements to achieve defined benefits
• Collaborate with Maintenance and Operations to identify and resolve issues; lead troubleshooting of systems and processes; mentor E&I technicians
• Manage and direct consultants, contractors, and vendors on controls-related projects
• Provide weekend and off-hour support for Process Control and IT mill needs, including startup support for planned and unplanned shutdowns
• Adhere to mill safety rules and participate in safety programs and meetings; support the mill’s behavior-based safety program
• Maintain the mill-wide data historian (OSIsoft PI) and related interfaces; evaluate, troubleshoot, and maintain system hardware
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical or Electrical Engineering is preferred; other engineering degrees are acceptable with adequate DCS, PLC, and HMI experience. A two-year degree or equivalent military experience may be considered with 10+ years of industrial experience in DCS, PLC, and HMI applications

• Minimum of five years of industrial experience preferred with degree, or 10+ years with a two-year degree, in DCS, PLC, and HMI applications

• Strong knowledge of field instrumentation, control devices, and motor controls

• Process control experience in the paper industry is preferred

• Proven troubleshooting skills with focus on root cause analysis and long-term solutions

• Experience with Honeywell TDC/Experion, Valmet, Rockwell, and Modicon DCS/PLC systems

• Experience with AC and DC variable speed drives

• Strong computer skills, including virtualization (VMware)

• Experience with Ethernet networks, switches, routers, and VLANs; industrial communication protocols (Modbus TCP/IP, Ethernet/IP)

• Experience with control loop tuning and performance evaluation tools

• Strong written and verbal communication skills; results-oriented with the ability to manage projects independently or in a team

• Ability to drive large-scale control system projects from concept to commissioning

• Self-directed, flexible, quick learner, multitasker, safety-focused; SharePoint / PowerApps / Flow knowledge is a plus

• Location: West Point, VA