Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Senior/New Generation
American Electric Power
- Location
- Columbus, OH
- Work model
- On-Site
- Level
- Senior
- H-1B history
- 16 approvals (FY2023)
- Posted
- Sep 17, 2026
Skills
About this role
Job Posting End Date 10-02-2026 Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
The Instrumentation and Controls Engineer will support gas, coal, and renewable plant retrofit projects, as well as new generation self-build projects, by defining design basis expectations and supporting the technical specification, engineering, and design of equipment and associated Instrumentation and Controls (I&C) systems. This work will be conducted in collaboration with Architect & Engineering (AE) or Engineer, Procure and Construct (EPC) firms. This role requires interaction with numerous stakeholder groups both within and outside of the company to ensure that operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) systems meet the design basis. Additionally, the engineer will support the construction of retrofit and/or new build projects to ensure successful implementation. A key responsibility of this position involves engaging with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) throughout the RFx processes. The engineer will utilize EPC and technical equipment specifications, maintained by the Engineering Services team, to support our self-build proposal process.
Key Responsibilities
Collaborate with AE and EPC firms to define and implement design basis expectations for I&C systems. Ensure OT and IT systems meet design requirements and incorporate industry best practices. Manage the Operational Technology (OT) Network and associated devices for seamless system integration and communication. Implement cybersecurity best practices to safeguard control systems from threats. Facilitate communication with internal and external stakeholders to align project goals. Engage with OEMs during RFx processes to ensure compliance with technical specifications Support the creation of plant retrofit and new generation equipment and AE/EPC services scope documents and subsequent self-build proposals. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop safe, reliable, and compliant control strategies. Support the development and review of technical specifications, EPC specifications, and designs. Support the construction of retrofit and/or new build projects to ensure successful implementation. Assist in managing technology evolution and addressing obsolescence concerns. Knowledge and Skills: Solid grasp of control theory, including PID, adaptive, and model predictive control. Ability to interpret and create technical documentation (e.g., System Descriptions, SAMA logic diagrams, P&IDs, schematics). Experience with servers, thin clients, network equipment, and computer-based instrumentation is a plus. Understanding of cybersecurity principles for control systems. Data analysis skills to monitor and enhance system performance. Proficiency in MS Access, Excel, Word, SQL, SharePoint, or Visual Basic is a plus. Familiarity with CEMS, renewable energy systems (solar, battery, wind), or regulatory compliance is advantageous. Strong communication skills for team collaboration.
Working Conditions
Approximately 25% travel, including day trips and overnight stays (up to a week or more). Work in both indoor and outdoor environments with exposure to heat, cold, noise, dust, fumes, and operating machinery. Mandatory safety gear required at generating stations: hard hat, eye/hearing protection, steel-toed shoes with heels and non-slip soles. Adherence to site-specific safety requirements is mandatory. Technical Expertise: Possesses intermediate level knowledge and performs varied assignments with proficiency in the application of theory and analytical techniques to solve diverse problems and complete extensive analysis. Leadership & Guidance: Coordinates work activities of others within the work group, department, or other corporate entities as necessary to complete routine activities. Performs routine engineering activity with minimum direction from higher-level employees. Follows policies,