What is SCADA?
SCADA stands for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. It's a system of hardware and software elements that allows large organizations to control processes locally and in remote locations. They can also process real-time data while directly interacting with devices useful to the business. This can include motors, pumps, valves, and more. This is done via HMI software. SCADA systems can also log events into one file that is available at the touch of a button. These systems are critical for industrial organizations that are clamoring to maintain efficiency. They can process data and communicate issues in the system, too, which helps to mitigate downtime.
The SCADA software works to display essential data, which helps operators to analyze the data and make the best decisions. Starting with programmable logic controllers and remote terminal units, SCADA software is successful when used correctly.
What is a SCADA Technician?
SCADA engineers are responsible for the maintenance and operation of all communication channels. These connect computers with the equipment that is controlled remotely. SCADA systems are used to automate processes and can collect data and monitor the data coming through remote devices. SCADA technicians ensure that this data continues to run smoothly to ensure that large-scale processes can be maintained without business interruption.
SCADA systems and processes are used in various industries, and when they fail, it can be catastrophic. With the right SCADA technician, this can be avoided, and they can remain as reliable and secure as ever. Finding an expert SCADA engineer should not be difficult, especially when you consider that FieldEngineer.com has the right professionals available now. If you are a SCADA engineer seeking SCADA jobs, you will find our platform to be a useful one!
How to Become a SCADA Technician?
There are some hoops to jump through before you can become a qualified SCADA engineer, and the first is that you need to have an Associate's Degree. You also need to have a good understanding of computer systems of all types, including SCADA systems. Some of the education requirements from individual companies require you to have experience - usually a minimum of three years in an electric utility company/environment. This is often to be in operations or engineering.
Job Description of SCADA Technician
The job description of a SCADA technician proves that this is a role in demand. FieldEngineer.com is a platform that has both companies looking for SCADA engineers and engineers looking for SCADA positions. The job description for a SCADA technician includes the fact that they need to know how to handle installations of different types and sizes. The duties of the role can vary from setting to setting. A SCADA technician always ensures that control system components are functioning correctly. They work to ensure that the correct security protocols are running across all networks while performing a range of technical tasks alongside the SCADA system to ensure that it's set up to include new systems. SCADA technicians also work to install, maintain, and calibrate new equipment. When there is a failure anywhere in the system, they are to respond quickly to repair and diagnose in the shortened downtime.
SCADA technicians have to monitor for performance and malware to ensure that the infrastructure is not under attack at any point. SCADA technicians have to be flexible in their work hours, and sometimes those hours are unsociable and through the night. Much of the work done by a SCADA technician can be done off-site remotely, and other jobs require a SCADA technician to travel for work.
Roles and Responsibilities of SCADA Technicians
There are many elements to the role of a SCADA technician. They perform and delegate some of the following, but they must be at the beck and call of their employer just in case of a failure in the system somewhere. A range of responsibilities are required to be completed as part of the role, and these include:
- The installation, reception, and configuration of servers, networks, and equipment.
- Continuous maintenance and upgrades to the SCADA systems
- Data communication monitoring
- PLC circuit troubleshooting
- Firewall set up and security of the SCADA systems from external attacks.
- Troubleshooting equipment and software to repair and diagnose any malfunctions in the system
- System access management
- License and support document organization and maintenance.
These are just a few of the responsibilities of a SCADA technician, and there is more depending on the company and their needs.
SCADA Technician Salary
Currently, SCADA technicians have a salary that averages at $70,000 per year, which is the national salary average for SCADA engineers in the area. The best thing to do is check and see what jobs are available for your skill level to understand better what you could be compensated.
