Instrumentation & Controls Head, PMC

Job Description

Job Description

AECOM is seeking a highly experienced Instrumentation & Controls – Head for PMC to lead I&C engineering, design review, and execution oversight for power transmission systems, substations (AIS/GIS/Hybrid Digital), HVDC systems, FACTS (STATCOM/SVC), and renewable energy integration (Solar, Wind, BESS).

The role will function as the PMC discipline lead and PMC representative for all control, automation, communication, and grid monitoring systems, ensuring compliance with technical specifications, grid codes, cybersecurity standards, and project performance requirements across the full project lifecycle.

The position requires strong expertise in advanced grid control systems including HVDC control & protection, STATCOM automation, WAPS / Remedial Action Scheme (RAS) schemes, and PMU-based systems, with close coordination across Electrical, Protection, Telecom, and Digital disciplines.

Key Accountabilities

1. Engineering Design Review & Technical Governance

• Lead basic and detailed engineering reviews of SCADA, SAS, PLC/DCS, EMS, and communication systems.
• Review advanced control systems for:
  • HVDC systems (converter control, pole control, DC protection, redundancy)
  • FACTS (STATCOM/SVC) for voltage regulation and reactive power control
  • WAPS / RAS schemes for grid stability and contingency management
  • PMU systems for real-time monitoring and advanced Grid modernization
• Validate system architecture, network topology, IO’s, Develop Algorithm’s as per system requirements, IED/RTU configurations, and HMI systems.
• Ensure compliance with IEC 61850, IEC 60870-5-101/104, IEEE C37.118, IEC 61970/61968, and utility standards.

2. PMC’s Engineer Role

• Act as the single-point accountability for all I&C systems within the PMC framework.
• Ensure EPC contractors adhere to approved designs, specifications, and integration requirements.
• Lead design reviews, interface management, and multidisciplinary coordination.
• Support technical due diligence, vendor evaluations, and techno-commercial assessments.

3. Construction Supervision & Site Execution

• Oversee installation of control panels, SCADA/SAS, HVDC/STATCOM control systems, PMUs, EMS, and communication networks.
• Ensure proper implementation of fiber optic systems, redundancy architecture, and time synchronization (GPS/NTP).
• Conduct site inspections, audits, and progress monitoring ensuring QA/QC and HSE compliance.

4. Testing, Commissioning & Grid Integration

• Lead and witness FAT, SAT, pre-commissioning, and commissioning for:
  • HVDC control & protection systems
  • STATCOM / FACTS systems
  • WAPS / PMU-based monitoring systems
  • EMS integration
• Validate integration with SLDC/RLDC/NLDC, REMC, and utility SCADA/EMS platforms.
• Ensure correct configuration of alarms, interlocks, event logs, remote control, and synchrophasor data flows.
• Support grid compliance testing and dynamic performance validation.

5. Communication Systems & Cybersecurity

• Ensure implementation of communication protocols including IEC 61850, IEC 104, Modbus, DNP3, IEEE C37.118.
• Oversee synchrophasor communication architecture (PMU–PDC–Control Center).
• Ensure compliance with IEC 62351 cybersecurity standards.
• Validate redundancy, failover, and network reliability.

6. Project Controls, Risk & Reporting

• Integrate I&C deliverables into project schedules, milestones, and commissioning timelines.
• Identify risks related to complex system integration (HVDC, FACTS, WAPS) and implement mitigation strategies.
• Support progress reporting, KPI tracking, and management dashboards.

7. Quality Assurance & Documentation

• Develop and implement QA/QC plans, ITPs, FAT/SAT procedures, and inspection checklists.
• Review and approve engineering documents, test reports, as-built drawings, and O&M manuals.
• Ensure compliance with contractual, regulatory, and client requirements.

8. Renewable & BESS Integration

• Lead integration of SCADA, EMS, plant controllers, and hybrid control systems.
• Ensure coordination between renewable plants, BESS, EHV Transmission line / HVDC links, and STATCOM systems.
• Validate control strategies for frequency response, voltage control, ramp rate, and ancillary services.

9. Stakeholder Coordination & Leadership

• Interface with clients, EPC contractors, OEMs, system operators, and regulatory authorities.
• Lead multidisciplinary teams and provide technical leadership and mentorship.
• Support issue resolution, claims management, and change control processes.

Key Focus Areas – PT&D with Hybrid Renewable Energy

1. Smart Grid Integration & Advanced Monitoring

• Deployment of SCADA, EMS, WAPS, and PMU-based systems for real-time monitoring and control.
• Integration of Solar, Wind, BESS, HVDC, and STATCOM into transmission networks.
• Adoption of digital substations and real-time analytics platforms.

2. Grid Stability & Dynamic Control

• Implementation of HVDC, STATCOM, and WAPS/RAS schemes for voltage and frequency stability.
• Use of PMU-based wide-area monitoring for dynamic grid assessment.
• Coordinated control of hybrid renewable systems and grid infrastructure.

3. Safety, Protection & Reliability

• Strict adherence to protection schemes, interlocks, and fail-safe logic.
• Implementation of zero-harm safety philosophy during commissioning.
• Ensuring system redundancy, cybersecurity, and high availability.

4. Efficient Project Delivery & Interface Management

• Manage technical interfaces between EPC contractors, OEMs, and client teams.
• Align I&C deliverables with project schedules and commissioning milestones.
• Drive resolution of design, integration, and site execution challenges.

5. Digitalization & Data-Driven Execution

• Use of integrated dashboards, analytics, and real-time monitoring tools.
• Enable predictive analysis, faster decision-making, and lifecycle optimization.

6. Hybrid Renewable Optimization

• Optimize operation of Solar + Wind + BESS hybrid systems.
• Support energy management, dispatch optimization, and grid support functions.
• Ensure long-term efficiency, reliability, and grid compliance.

Key Competencies

• Advanced Grid Control Systems Expertise
• Technical Leadership & Engineering Governance
• Interface & Stakeholder Management
• Risk Management & System Integration
• Quality & Compliance Orientation
• Project Delivery Excellence

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Instrumentation / Electronics / Electrical Engineering (Master’s preferred).
• 15+ years of experience in I&C systems for transmission, substations, HVDC, and hybrid renewable energy projects.
• Proven experience in PMC’s Engineer roles.
• Strong expertise in:
  • SAS, SCADA, PLC/DCS systems
  • HVDC and FACTS (STATCOM/SVC)
  • WAPS / RAS and PMU systems
  • EMS integration (for Hybrid renewable projects)

Additional Information

• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to operate in a matrixed, multicultural, and multidisciplinary environment.
• Willingness to travel for project reviews, factory visits, and site support.
• Demonstrates leadership, accountability, and adaptability in complex project environments.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.