Controls Technician I

Job Title: Controls Technician I (CTECH1)Location: Montgomery AL 36109 Assignment Duration: 12 months' Work Environment: Field-based | PPE Required Schedule: Standard Shift Position Overview Client is seeking a Controls Technician I to support Protection & Control Field Services. This role is responsible for installing, maintaining, calibrating, and troubleshooting protection and control systems used in electrical substations. The position supports Operations & Maintenance (O&M) activities and requires strict adherence to safety, regulatory, and operational standards while working in energized and high-voltage environments. Key Responsibilities Install, maintain, test, and troubleshoot protection and control relaying systems and associated substation equipment. Perform calibration and functional testing of protection and control relays and devices. Install, program, and maintain microprocessor-based relays, PLCs, sensors, pumps, motors, and related control systems. Assist with the creation, maintenance, and updating of protection and control documentation. Support assigned project leads during field assignments and substation activities. Participate in process hazard analyses and comply with all safety, operational, and regulatory requirements. Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation. Maintain knowledge of current industry standards, safety practices, and protection and control technologies. Required Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent (required). 0-3 years of experience in a controls technician or similar technical role. Working knowledge of AC and DC electrical systems. Familiarity with PLCs and HMIs. Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications. Ability to meet NERC/CIP access requirements. Ability to work in environments requiring Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Preferred Qualifications Associate's degree in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Maintenance, or a related field. Experience working in substations, utilities, or power generation environments. Safety Responsibilities & Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) This position involves working around energized electrical equipment and high-voltage systems. Strict compliance with established Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) procedures is required. 1. Voltage Measurement (50 Volts or Higher) Potential Hazards: Electrical shock Arc flash injuries Safety Controls / Safe Work Practices: Inspect meters and test leads before each use for damage or wear. Ensure retractable sleeves fully cover exposed conductors. Verify the meter is set to the correct function prior to use. Use approved insulated tools when working on energized equipment. Install secondary voltage cover-up kits to prevent accidental contact. Test meters on a known live source before and after use. Apply meter leads carefully to terminals during voltage measurement. 2. Energizing or De-Energizing Equipment Potential Hazards: Fire Explosion Safety Controls / Safe Work Practices: Maintain safe distances when switching high-voltage substation equipment. Allow capacitors to fully discharge prior to beginning work (minimum 5 minutes for capacitor banks). When opening an energized Current Transformer (CT) circuit: Verify the circuit is properly shorted and grounded. Confirm no current is present before opening the circuit. 3. Working Near SF₆ Power Circuit Breakers or Circuit Switchers Potential Hazards: Exposure to SF₆ gas Exposure to stored mechanical energy Safety Controls / Safe Work Practices: Use SENT or contact the Control Center before entering or exiting the switchyard. Do not enter a switchyard following an SF₆ gas release. Confirm area safety with a P&C Field Services Supervisor or Team Lead prior to entry after any SF₆ release. Verify breakers are open and all stored energy has been discharged before working near breaker mechanisms. 4. General Situational Awareness in the Switchyard Potential Hazards: Falling objects Contact with moving equipment Line-of-fire incidents Safety Controls / Safe Work Practices: Never stand beneath suspended loads. Avoid areas where overhead work is occurring. Stay clear of moving equipment paths. Maintain constant awareness of surroundings and safe body positioning. 5. Working Aloft in the Switchyard Potential Hazards: Falls Safety Controls / Safe Work Practices: Do not work above 4 feet without a ladder. Maintain three points of contact while climbing or descending. Secure extension ladders before use. Keep center of gravity between ladder side rails. Do not climb above the ladder's highest rated standing level.

Created: 2026-03-10