Head of Instrumentation

Position Summary

The Department Head of Instrumentation is responsible for overseeing the maintenance, optimization, and development of instrumentation systems to ensure the efficient, safe, and reliable operation of a heavy chemical manufacturing plant. This leadership role involves managing a team of engineers and technicians, coordinating with cross-functional departments, and ensuring compliance with industry standards, safety protocols, and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership and Management

• Lead and manage the instrumentation department, including recruitment, training, performance evaluation, and development of personnel.
• Develop and implement strategies for achieving departmental and organizational goals, including reliability, efficiency, and operational excellence.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement within the department.

2. Instrumentation Maintenance and Optimization

• Oversee the maintenance, calibration, and repair of all plant instrumentation systems, including sensors, transmitters, control valves, and analyzers.
• Develop and implement preventive and predictive maintenance programs to minimize downtime and enhance reliability.
• Ensure proper documentation and record-keeping of all instrumentation activities, including calibration records and maintenance logs.

3. System Upgrades and Projects

• Plan, execute, and oversee upgrades and modifications to instrumentation systems to support process improvements and technological advancements.
• Collaborate with the engineering team to design and implement new instrumentation solutions for plant expansions or process changes.
• Manage instrumentation aspects of capital projects, including budgeting, resource allocation, and contractor coordination.

4. Compliance and Standards

• Ensure instrumentation systems comply with relevant industry standards, codes, and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct audits and inspections to verify compliance and identify areas for improvement.
• Stay updated on advancements in instrumentation technology and industry best practices.

5. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with operations, process, electrical, and mechanical teams to ensure seamless plant operations.
• Provide technical support and expertise for troubleshooting and resolving instrumentation-related issues.
• Act as a key liaison with vendors and contractors for procurement, installation, and maintenance of instrumentation equipment.

Qualifications and Skills

Education and Experience

• Bachelors degree in Instrumentation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in instrumentation within the heavy chemical, petrochemical, or oil & gas industry.
• At least 5 years in a leadership or managerial role.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of instrumentation systems, including PLCs, DCS, SCADA, and field instruments.
• Proficiency in process control, automation, and communication protocols (e.g., HART, Modbus, Foundation Fieldbus).
• Experience with advanced diagnostic tools and reliability-centered maintenance practices.

Soft Skills

• Strong leadership, team-building, and communication skills.
• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities under pressure.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills.

Work Environment and Conditions

• Based in a continuous operation heavy chemical manufacturing plant.
• Requires availability for emergency troubleshooting and operational support during off-hours.
• Exposure to industrial environments, including noise, heat, and chemical processes.