Automation Project Manager - Process Controls in Pittsburgh
Job DescriptionJob Description
This is a CONTRACT OPPORTUNITY
Global leader in steel/metal production
This will be onsite and long term. Detailed engineering for this portion of the project start in June/July but open to starting sooner. Heavy knowledge of Process controls relating to motors, drives, PLCs, etc. US Steel lacks the expertise in this area so they want an Owner's Rep to work with Prime Metals (3rd party equipment supplier) to make sure things are accurate and best for US Steel.
Job Title: Level 1 / Level 2 Process Engineer – Hot Strip Mill Automation
Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Project: New Hot Strip Mill Installation
Department: Automation / Process Control Engineering
Reports To: Automation Manager or Project Engineering Lead
Employment Type: Full-Time / Project-Based
Position Summary
The Level 1 / Level 2 Process Engineer will play a key role in the design, configuration,
commissioning, and optimization of automation and control systems for a new state-of-the-art
Hot Strip Mill in Pittsburgh, PA. The role focuses on Siemens PLCs, motor and drive systems,
and process control software used to automate steelmaking operations.
The successful candidate will work collaboratively with electrical, mechanical, and process
engineering teams to ensure reliable, efficient, and safe mill operation from startup through
production ramp-up.
Key Responsibilities
Level 1 (Automation and Control Layer):
Working with OEM engineers, co-develop and configure Siemens PLC programs (e.g.,
SIMATIC S7 / TIA Portal) for Hot Strip Mill equipment including roughing stands,
finishing stands, coilers, and material handling systems.
Participate in the design and implement control logic, interlocks, and sequence controls
for motors, drives, and actuators.
Working with OEM engineers. integrate Siemens SINAMICS / SIMOTION drives and
ensure proper parameterization and tuning.
Participate in FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing), SAT (Site Acceptance Testing), and
commissioning activities.
Support troubleshooting and performance optimization of PLC-based systems during
startup and operation.
Level 2 (Process Automation and Optimization Layer):
Working with OEM engineers, master comprehension of Level 2 process models, data
acquisition, and supervisory control logic to coordinate mill operations.
Ensure interface of Level 2 systems with Level 1 automation and USS plant MES
systems for real-time data exchange and production tracking.
Collaborate with metallurgical and process engineers to define setpoints, control
algorithms, and optimization strategies (e.g., rolling schedules, temperature control,
gauge control).
Develop and test process software using relevant tools (e.g., C++, Python, or Siemens
PCS 7 platforms).
Support data analysis and reporting for process quality and throughput improvement.
Ensure adherence to USS STEEL Principles, Change Management and Ongoing Continuous
Improvement Programming in area(s) of responsibility.
Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Control Systems
Engineering, or related field.
Experience:
3–7 years of experience in process automation or control engineering in the steel industry
(Hot Strip Mill experience ).
Proven hands-on experience with Siemens PLCs (S7 / TIA Portal) and Siemens drives
(SINAMICS, SIMOTION).
Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (e.g., PROFINET, PROFIBUS,
OPC UA).
Experience with Level 2 process control systems, databases, and real-time data
integration.
Exposure to commissioning and startup activities in heavy industrial environments.
Skills:
Knowledge of rolling mill process control, including gauge, temperature, and tension
control.
Experience with HMI/SCADA systems (e.g., WinCC, Wonderware, or Ignition).
Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills.
Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings and P&IDs.
Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
Additional Information
Work Environment: Primarily site-based during installation and commissioning phases,
with periods in engineering offices for design and testing.
Travel: Domestic w/ limited international travel for vendor FAT/SAT and training.
Project Duration: Multi-year new installation project with potential for long-term
employment upon completion.
Open to direct hire, contract to direct or contract.
Company DescriptionMAP Engineering, also known as Management Alliance Programs, is a top engineering company that is located in the Greater Milwaukee area, provides engineering solutions that exceed expectations of our clients. Capital projects require a significant commitment of company resources that include funding, people and time.Company DescriptionMAP Engineering, also known as Management Alliance Programs, is a top engineering company that is located in the Greater Milwaukee area, provides engineering solutions that exceed expectations of our clients. Capital projects require a significant commitment of company resources that include funding, people and time.