Control Systems Engineer

Sprague Operating Resources LLC is hiring a Control Systems Engineer for their Whitefield, NH location. The role involves project management and expertise in industrial automation for Biomass power plants. Responsibilities include evaluating control systems, supporting automation upgrades, preparing cost estimates, and ensuring compliance with regulations. The position offers benefits such as medical coverage, retirement plans, and a flexible working policy. It emphasizes collaboration and innovation in energy operations.
NE Renewable Power is made up of 7 Biomass electric generating power stations located in Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. These stations play a crucial role in supplying locally sourced renewable energy to the people of New England.

Sprague brings over 150 years of energy operating experience to the operations of these facilities, and we’re hiring a Control Systems Engineer for the Whitefield, NH location.

Who we are:

Sprague takes a collaborative, customer-centric approach to providing best-in-class energy products and related services throughout the Northeast. Founded in 1870, we pride ourselves on offering customers the expert solutions and high-quality service that help their businesses thrive in any market landscape. Sprague values innovation, safety, integrity and people. We know that our people are what set us apart from our competition, and we work hard to make sure each employee across our 20+ locations knows how important they are to our community.

We offer great benefits! Medical benefits and retirement contributions start on your first day!
• 401(k) Traditional and Roth plans with employer match of 100% of the first 6% of the employee’s contribution
• Defined Contribution Plan with an automatic 2.6% contribution from Sprague
• Paid Volunteer Time
• Tuition reimbursement
• Flexible Working Policy
• Choice of high deductible and PPO Health Plans to fit your individual needs
• Wellness Program

Our Control Systems Engineer will provide regional engineering project management and industrial automation and controls expertise in support of New England Renewable Power (NERP) assets. Work with the Engineering Team, Operations Management, and plant personnel to maintain NERP assets and ensure sustained readiness and reliability in compliance with all federal, state, local and internal NERP operating requirements.
• Coordinate with the Engineering Team to evaluate control systems, automation infrastructure, and industrial equipment through formal and informal inspections. Develop long-term automation and process control strategies to ensure assets remain in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations while aligning with company guidelines.
• Provide engineering project management support for control system integration, automation upgrades, and process optimization. Assist plant managers during the implementation of automation solutions at our Biomass power plants.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates for control system upgrades, automation projects, and other electrical upgrade projects. Collaborate with contractors and engineers to define work scopes, solicit bids, review automation system designs, and validate engineering plans prior to project execution.
• Track the progress of electrical, automation and control system projects against defined objectives, budgets, and schedules. Provide status updates on project engineering, installation, and commissioning while ensuring adherence to project milestones.
• Work closely with project controls personnel to ensure automation projects are completed within budget and schedule constraints. Provide monthly updates on capital investments.
• Coordinate key inspections for automation and process control equipment, including PLC panels, electrical distribution, and industrial control loops. Conduct engineering analysis in-house or through third-party automation specialists to optimize system performance.
• Support Operations Management and terminal personnel by providing real-time engineering and automation expertise during emergencies. Diagnose and resolve control system failures to maintain operational continuity.
• Provide automation support for new product lines such as biochar, cohosting opportunities, etc.
• Travel required

Education / Experience / Skill Requirements:
• Seven years of experience in industrial automation and controls within the petroleum, energy, material handling, marine, or power generation industries required.
• Specific experience in project management with direct responsibility for large-scale projects is preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in an Engineering discipline (Mechanical, Electrical, Marine, or Civil), or related field required.
• Successful track record of project execution. Demonstrated ability to identify project risks, develop risk mitigation and contingency plans, and implement action plans to reduce or eliminate risks.
• Ability to successfully assess capital requirements and implement long-term upgrades to plant equipment and systems.
• Demonstrated organizational and project management skills with the ability to handle multiple simultaneous projects.
• Strong computer skills including Engineering Applications, MS Office Suite and Project Management software.
• Strong analytical, communication and presentation skills.
• Self-starter with demonstrated record of pro-active contributions and ability to successfully implement company goals.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to pass a background check and a pre-employment screening.

Sprague is an EEO/AA employer. We strongly encourage minorities, females, Vets and individuals with disabilities to apply.

As a federal contractor we adhere to OFCCP employment regulations. Click here for OFCCP compliance information