SCADA
SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) is a computer system used to monitor and control industrial equipment in places like oil fields, gas plants, and manufacturing facilities. Think of it as a central control room system that lets operators watch and manage all their equipment from computer screens. It collects information from machines and sensors, shows it in easy-to-understand displays, and allows operators to make adjustments or respond to problems. It's similar to how a building's management system controls heating and lighting, but on a much larger industrial scale.
Examples in Resumes
Managed and maintained SCADA systems for 5 gas extraction facilities
Implemented new SCADA monitoring solutions that improved safety response time by 35%
Trained operators on SCADA controls and emergency procedures
Typical job title: "SCADA Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find SCADA Engineers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a major SCADA system failure at a gas extraction facility?
Expected Answer: A senior engineer should discuss backup systems, emergency procedures, communication protocols, and step-by-step troubleshooting approaches while maintaining safety standards. They should mention past experiences handling similar situations.
Q: How do you approach SCADA system security?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic industrial cybersecurity concepts in simple terms, including network separation, access controls, regular updates, and employee training. Should mention compliance with industry standards.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What experience do you have with SCADA system maintenance and upgrades?
Expected Answer: Should describe routine maintenance procedures, system backup processes, and how to plan and execute system upgrades with minimal disruption to operations.
Q: How do you train operators on using SCADA systems?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating training materials, hands-on training approaches, and methods for ensuring operators understand both routine operations and emergency procedures.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic components of a SCADA system?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain in simple terms the main parts: sensors, controllers, operator interfaces, and communication systems, and how they work together.
Q: How do you monitor alarms in a SCADA system?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic alarm monitoring concepts, priority levels, and standard procedures for responding to different types of alarms.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of SCADA systems
- Monitoring and basic troubleshooting
- Reading system diagrams
- Basic operator interface usage
Mid (2-5 years)
- System configuration and maintenance
- Alarm management
- Basic programming and customization
- Operator training
Senior (5+ years)
- System design and implementation
- Emergency response management
- Security protocol development
- Project management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of industrial safety protocols
- Lack of hands-on experience with control systems
- No knowledge of industrial communication protocols
- Poor understanding of security requirements
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Automated Scorecards in ATS Systems: Your Secret Weapon for Smarter Hiring Decisions
Workforce Solutions Aggregators: The Next Big Thing You Didn't Know You Needed
Talent Acquisition Automation: Revolutionizing Recruitment
