Zachry Engineering Corporation is seeking a highly experienced Principal Instrumentation & Control Engineer to lead the design, development, and execution of instrumentation and control systems for complex oil and gas projects. This role requires technical leadership, deep domain expertise, and the ability to mentor multidisciplinary teams while ensuring safe, reliable, and cost-effective project delivery.
The Principal I&C Engineer will serve as a subject matter expert (SME), driving engineering excellence across upstream, midstream, and downstream projects including refineries, petrochemical plants, and power plants.
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation Engineering, or related field (required)
- 15+ years of experience in instrumentation and control engineering within the oil & gas or petrochemical industry or power industry.
- Extensive experience with refinery, LNG, gas processing, or pipeline control systems
- Proven experience leading large-scale EPC or EPCM projects
Certifications (Preferred)
- Professional Engineer (PE) license
Technical Skills
- Strong knowledge of DCS/PLC platforms (e.g., Honeywell, Emerson DeltaV, Yokogawa, Siemens, Rockwell)
- Expertise in SIS design and SIL determination (IEC 61511 / IEC 61508)
- Instrument selection and specification (pressure, flow, level, temperature, analyzers)
- Control valve sizing and performance analysis
- Industrial networking and communication protocols (Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP, OPC)
- Familiarity with IIoT, advanced process control (APC), and digital transformation initiatives
Key Competencies
- Strategic thinking and technical problem-solving
- Strong leadership and decision-making skills
- Excellent communication and client-facing abilities
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced EPC environment
- Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement
Why Zachry Engineering
At Zachry Engineering, we deliver innovative engineering solutions that power the energy industry. Our teams are driven by a commitment to safety, integrity, and excellence. As a Principal I&C Engineer, you will play a critical role in shaping the future of energy infrastructure while working on some of the industry’s most complex and impactful projects.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Employee will be required to communicate in person, via telephone, email, use of arm/hand steadiness, manual dexterity, finger dexterity, multi limb coordination, oral expression, and comprehension. May be required to lift, carry, and move objects safely.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Will work in a general office environment. Capable of operating and functioning in a fast-paced work environment. Must possess a vision (corrected or uncorrected) that allows for clear visibility from a distance of 20 inches or less. Hybrid or office based depending on project needs. Occasional travel to client sites, fabrication yards, or operating facilities
Zachry Group is dedicated in providing a Safe and Drug Free work environment; and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
In accordance with Illinois Equal Pay Act, the expected salary range for this Illinois position, Principal Instrumentation & Control Engineer is between $165,900 and $237,345 annually. Actual pay will be adjusted based on experience, geographic location, and other job-related factors as permitted by law.
This position Principal Instrumentation & Control Engineer is eligible for participation in Zachry’s Total Employee Rewards Program, which includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, and other ancillary benefits. This position is also eligible for participation in the 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan.
