Control Systems Leadhand

Highlights of the job

Join Our Team as a Control Systems Leadhand

Aurum Site – Edmonton, AB
Full-Time | Permanent

EPCOR Water Services (EWS) is seeking a skilled and motivated Control Systems Leadhand to join our Flow Control Facilities team. This is a full-time, permanent opportunity based at our Aurum site in Edmonton.

In this pivotal leadership role, you’ll provide technical direction and mentorship to a team of Control Systems Technicians and Instrumentation Technicians, ensuring the reliable operation, integration, and maintenance of our PLC systems, instrumentation, and telemetry infrastructure. You’ll act as a bridge between planning and execution—driving safety, compliance, and operational excellence.

Reporting to the Electrical/Instrumentation (E/I) Foreman, your responsibilities will include:

• Leading programming, troubleshooting, and project implementation for control systems and communications infrastructure.
• Supporting documentation, training, and safety initiatives across the team.

We welcome applications from both internal and external candidates.

EPCOR employees: Please apply using your @epcor.com email address to ensure your internal seniority is properly considered.

What You’ll Be Responsible For

As the Control Systems Leadhand, you’ll report to the Flow Control Electrical Manager and are accountable for assigning, guiding, and reviewing the work of Control Systems Technicians and Instrumentation Technicians, ensuring alignment with operational standards, safety protocols, and maintenance priorities. You play a key leadership role in ensuring the reliability, safety, and performance of our control systems. Your responsibilities will span across several core areas:

1. Leadership & Oversight

• Lead daily operations of the control systems crew, providing guidance, mentorship, and technical support.
• Ensure consistent execution of PLC programming, instrumentation calibration, and troubleshooting tasks.
• Promote a culture of safety, continuous improvement, and technical excellence.
• Monitor and report on team performance metrics including preventative maintenance compliance, SCADA alarm response, and system uptime.

2. Work Coordination & Resource Planning

• Coordinate work assignments and resource allocation in collaboration with the Scheduler and Foreman.
• Review and validate IVARA entries and documentation from the control systems team to ensure accuracy, completeness, and alignment with asset management practices.
• Support standby rotation planning and crew readiness.
• Coordinate and oversee contractor activities related to control systems and instrumentation, ensuring compliance with EPCOR standards and timely resolution of outstanding issues.

3. PLC System Management

• Program, troubleshoot, tune, and configure PLC systems across Flow Control Facilities.
• Adapt to evolving technologies to support process safety, operability, and efficiency.
• Manage PLC databases and oversee contractor work to ensure programming standards and compliance.

4. Project Integration and Commissioning

• Lead integration efforts for capital and operational projects, including acceptance testing, commissioning, and contractor coordination.
• Participate in acceptance testing and contribute to instrument specifications and purchasing decisions.
• Review and approve logic changes and assist in designing specialized instrumentation.
• Provide technical support to contractors during maintenance and capital projects.

5. Compliance, Safety & Documentation

• Ensure adherence to EPCOR safety standards, including confined space entry, PPE, and hazard assessments.
• Maintain and update control system documentation (P&IDs, SOPs, IVARA entries).
• Monitor compliance with regulatory and internal standards for PLC systems and instrumentation.

6. Knowledge Transfer & Team Development

• Facilitate training sessions and hands-on learning opportunities for junior staff.
• Mentor team members on troubleshooting techniques, system diagnostics, and safe work practices.
• Support knowledge-sharing initiatives and foster a collaborative team environment.

7. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Liaise with SCADA, Network Operations, Engineering, and Operations teams to support system integration and resolve technical issues.
• Communicate field observations, system performance data, and improvement opportunities to stakeholders.
• Support integration of control systems with broader SCADA and data platforms (e.g., WISKI, Node-RED, LoggerNet, Power BI).

What You Bring to the Role

Education & Certification

• A high school diploma (GED or equivalent secondary education).
• A valid Journeyman Certificate in Electrical and Instrumentation from a recognized post-secondary institution.
  • Candidates with a single Electrical trade ticket may be considered.
  • If your Journeyman certification is from outside Alberta, Red Seal Certification is required.

Experience

• 10+ years of hands-on experience in an industrial facility—ideally within a wastewater collection system.
• 3+ years in a supervisory role, leading a team of skilled trades professionals.

Technical Expertise

• PLC Programming Mastery: Skilled in Ladder Logic, Structured Text, Function Block Diagram, and Sequential Function Chart. Deep understanding of various PLC platforms and advanced techniques such as PID control, motion control, data handling, diagnostics, and modular programming.
• Industrial Networking & Communication: Proficient in Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, and other protocols. Strong grasp of network fundamentals and integration with DCS/SCADA systems.
• Software & System Integration: Experienced in HMI/SCADA development, database management, and electrical CAD for schematic design.
• Electrical & Control Systems Knowledge: Solid understanding of electrical schematics, instrumentation, sensors, and control system design principles.
• Advanced Troubleshooting: Exceptional analytical skills and a proven ability to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues.

Behavioural Competencies

• A collaborative team player who thrives in cross-functional environments and communicates effectively across all levels.
• Skilled at translating technical concepts for diverse audiences and gaining buy-in from stakeholders.
• Demonstrates emotional intelligence through tone, body language, and thoughtful communication.
• Takes ownership and initiative, continuously seeks improvement, and acts with integrity.
• Leads by example—engaging the team, setting clear targets, addressing challenges, and coaching others through change.

Other important facts about this job

Jurisdiction: IBEW1007

Dual Trade

As a dual trade:

Class: 6530 (DT2)

Wage: $65.95 per hour

• Please note if the successful candidate is a single trade - wage will be determined at time of selection and is based on factors as outlined on the CA for IBEW1007 that may be found online.

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Please note the following information:

• A requirement of working for EPCOR is that you are at least 18 years of age, successfully attained a high school diploma (GED, or equivalent level of secondary education) and legally entitled to work in Canada. (A copy of a valid work permit may be required.)
• If you are considered for the position, clearance on all applicable background checks (which may include criminal, identity, educational, and/or credit) and professional reference checks is required. Some EPCOR positions require an enhanced level of background assessment, which is dictated by law. These positions require advanced criminal record checks that must also be conducted from time to time after commencement of employment.
• A technical/practical assessment may be administered during the selection process and this exercise will be used as a part of the selection criterion.
• To meet the physical demands required of some positions, candidates must be in good physical condition and willing to work in all weather conditions. Clearance on pre-placement medical and drug and alcohol testing may be required.
• Prior infractions for unsafe driving behaviours will be evaluated and considered for non-selection regardless of current demerits on file.