SCADA Technician at Travis County Water District 17 in Austin, TX

Class Title: IT / SCADA Technician

EEOC: Administration

FLSA: Non-Exempt

Summary of Position:

Under limited supervision, the IT / SCADA Technician is responsible for maintaining the District’s telemetry, control, security, and information technology systems that support water, wastewater, and administrative operations.

This position involves a wide range of routine and complex technical tasks, including programming, hardware maintenance, panel wiring, system inspections, plan reviews, and technical consultation.

Organizational Relationships:

• Reports to: IT / SCADA Supervisor
• Directs: This is a non-supervisory position
• Other: Has contact with District employees, the public, consultants, contractors, and suppliers

Duties and Responsibilities:

Typical Information Technology Duties:

1. Maintain server-class equipment (Windows 2003–2019, Linux servers)
2. Manage Oracle, SQL, and MySQL databases and associated hardware
3. Maintain network infrastructure (wiring, routers, switches, VPN, mobile access)
4. Coordinate with third-party vendors (email, billing, accounting software, etc.)
5. Provide technical support and training to end users
6. Manage and maintain CCTV and security alarm systems
7. Maintain the mobile phone system

Typical SCADA Duties:

1. Maintain SCADA telemetry network, including PLCs/RTUs and data radios
2. Support Ethernet, RS232, RS485, MODBUS, and DeviceNet networks for PLCs
3. Maintain Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) and associated databases
4. Conduct field inspections and coordinate with contractors and department heads
5. Write and maintain software programs to enhance District operations
6. Maintain documentation for projects and PLC programming databases

Desired Minimum Qualifications:

Working Knowledge of:

• Windows and Linux server/desktop operating systems
• Ethernet LAN/WAN infrastructure, VPNs, network security, firewalls, routers, switches
• MS SQL, Oracle, MySQL
• Motorola PLCs (MOSCAD, MOSCAD-L, ACE 36XX series)
• Allen-Bradley PLCs
• HMI software (iFix, RSView, Ignition)
• CalAmp Viper IP and GE MDS radios
• Pressure transducers (calibration, troubleshooting, installation)
• Relay logic and low-voltage applications (<120VAC/DC)
• MODBUS and DeviceNet protocols
• TCP/IP and OSI model

Ability to:

1. Understand and carry out oral/written instructions and prepare technical reports
2. Establish and maintain effective working relationships
3. Communicate professionally with the public, even in stressful situations
4. Work in various environmental conditions, including outdoors
5. Interpret technical documents, drawings, and schematics
6. Properly use and maintain tools and equipment
7. Work overtime and respond to on-call duties as required
8. Enter confined spaces (e.g., manholes, wet wells, valve boxes)
9. Wear and use a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)

Acceptable Experience and Training:

• Associate’s degree in a technical or mathematical field or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Minimum two (2) years of experience writing PLC logic and performing instrument calibration/testing
• Experience with water/wastewater systems is preferred

Licenses and Certifications:

• Must possess a valid Texas Class C Driver’s License

Physical Demands:

Physical Ability:

• Requires moderate physical effort involving kneeling, crouching, crawling, lifting/pushing/carrying objects up to 50 lbs

Dexterity:

• Must perform coordinated movements involving placing and turning motions

Sensory Requirements:

• Must be able to perceive and distinguish colors, sounds, and communicate clearly

Work Environment:

• Regular exposure to adverse environmental conditions including dirt, dust, humidity, fumes, noise, electrical currents, moving machinery, traffic hazards, toxic substances, and confined spaces

Selection Guidelines

• Formal application, rating of education and experience; oral interview, and reference check; job-related tests may be required.
• The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
• The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.