Case studies : Principal control and instrumentation engineer: Richard

Richard graduated with a degree in systems engineering from the University of Sheffield.

'My degree course covered advanced control system design technologies, as well as standard approaches to systems engineering and computer control.

I currently work for a large global pharmaceutical company, where I am responsible for developing and maintaining design standards, policies, and procedures for control and instrumentation activities and equipment. I am also the design authority for all control and instrumentation aspects of new and existing facilities and equipment (both process and building services) and for their modification and upgrading.

I critique designs for technical merit and authorise the control and instrumentation aspects of new installations and proposed modifications to all facilities. I also develop design, installation and commissioning standards for control systems and instrumentation and control network development across the site. I’m responsible for the site-wide controls networks, their maintenance, development and security and for the calibration of all regulated instrumentation.

I also manage a team of people who provide support to the operations and maintenance teams. As part of this role, I carry out resource planning, provide coaching and highlight any development needs for the project engineers within the discipline. I also assist in the recruitment and selection of maintenance staff for the group and I'm involved in the training and skill development of instrument and control technicians.

My project engineering responsibilities include specifying and advising on the selection of instrumentation and control systems, managing the control and instrumentation aspects of projects as requested and specifying the project engineering requirements for externally supplied control and instrumentation engineers. I also propose enhancements and upgrades to C&I systems, including developing supporting business cases.

To be successful in this job, you need to have the ability to understand complex control programming, while having a detailed understanding of the overall system to enable fault finding. You must be capable of both parallel and serial thinking. In addition, as you’re providing an internal consultancy role and working for a variety of client groups, you need a finely tuned customer service skill set.

It’s a good career choice for graduates because you get to develop knowledge of specification, selection and maintenance of all instrument sensor types and control valves. You also develop a good working knowledge of current network technology, project engineering and project management experience, and commercial awareness. You’re also able to work towards chartered engineer status, fully supported by your employer.'