Charles Jones
Odessa,TX
Summary
Automation-focused Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) Technician with strong experience in PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industrial control systems within oil & gas operations. Proven ability to troubleshoot, program, and optimize automated processes using but not limited to Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation) platforms. Recognized for minimizing downtime, improving system performance, and ensuring safe, reliable operation of complex control systems. Skilled in bridging the gap between field instrumentation and advanced automation environments.
Overview
1
1
Certification
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Automation Coordinator
San Mateo Midstream
Orla, Texas
07.2026 - Current
- Led troubleshooting and optimization of Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLC systems in critical environments.
- Programmed advanced PLC logic to enhance system efficiency and reliability.
- Designed control strategies, interlocks, and alarm systems to boost process safety.
- Served as primary field resource for PLC, SCADA, and automation systems.
- Configured and maintained SCADA systems, including tag databases and alarms.
- Developed HMI graphics for improved usability and control.
- Led commissioning, startup, and integration of automation systems.
- Troubleshot complex industrial communication networks like Ethernet/IP and Modbus TCP/IP.
I&E / Automation Technician
Cardinal Midstream
Orla, TX
01.2023 - 07.2026
- Lead troubleshooting and optimization of Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLC systems in critical production environments
- Perform advanced PLC programming, logic development, and system improvements to increase efficiency and reliability
- Design and implement control strategies, interlocks, and alarm systems to enhance process safety
- Serve as the primary field resource for PLC, SCADA, and automation systems
- Configure and maintain SCADA systems, including tag databases, alarms, and historian integration
- Develop and improve HMI graphics and operator interfaces for better usability and control
- Lead commissioning, startup, and integration of automation systems and instrumentation
- Troubleshoot complex industrial communication networks (EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP)
- Perform and validate PID loop tuning and process optimization
- Conduct I/O checkout, loop testing, and instrumentation calibration
- Support and mentor junior technicians in PLC troubleshooting and instrumentation practices
- Analyze system performance and implement continuous improvement initiatives
- Maintain PLC program backups, revisions, and version control
- Collaborate with engineering on control system upgrades and capital projects
- Perform root cause failure analysis (RCFA) on automation system failures
- Ensure compliance with OSHA and industry safety standards
- Oversee integration of VFDs, motor controls, and automated equipment
- Interpret and validate P&IDs, loop diagrams, and electrical schematics
- Provided hands-on support for Snider IT for plant and field operations, ensuring reliable communication system performance
- Work with Snider IT on configuring and deploying communication equipment for connectivity between field and plant
I&E Technician
Medallion Midstream
Orla, Tx
01.2018 - 01.2023
- Supported instrumentation and electrical maintenance for production systems
- Assisted with PLC troubleshooting and automation diagnostics
- Performed preventive maintenance on control systems and field devices
- Ensured reliability of instrumentation and measurement equipment
I&E Technician
Point Forward Inc.
Odessa, Tx
05.2015 - 01.2018
- Assembled and wired industrial control panels according to electrical schematics and layout drawings
- Mounted components including PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, relays, terminal blocks, and power supplies
- Performed point-to-point wiring and ensured proper labeling and wire management
- Drilled, tapped, and installed panel backplates, enclosures, and conduit entries
- Tested completed panels for continuity, voltage, and functionality prior to shipment
- Verified builds met UL508A standards and customer specifications
- Supported Medallion Midstream operations through contract role, maintaining and troubleshooting plant and field automation systems
Maintenance Electrician
Bridges Equipment
Odessa, Tx
04.2006 - 05.2015
- Machine Shop – Ongoing repairs and maintenance on all machines
- Facility Maintenance – Including Overhead Hoist, Doors and Welding Machines
Maintenance Department Manager
Big Tex Trailers
Odessa, Tx
09.2002 - 04.2006
- Managing Maintenance Crew, scheduling repairs for facility maintenance
Electrician
Loving Electric
Odessa, Tx
03.1993 - 09.2002
- Installed, maintained, and repaired electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings
- Read and interpreted blueprints, schematics, and wiring diagrams to ensure accurate installations
- Performed troubleshooting to diagnose electrical issues and implemented effective solutions
- Installed and connected wiring, circuit breakers, outlets, panels, and lighting fixtures
- Ensured compliance with National Electrical Code (NEC) and local regulations
- Conducted preventive maintenance to reduce system downtime and improve efficiency
- Tested electrical systems using multimeters, voltmeters, and other diagnostic tools
- Repaired or replaced faulty wiring, equipment, and fixtures to ensure safety and reliability
- Installed and serviced control systems, motors, and PLCs (if applicable)
- Maintained accurate records of work performed, materials used, and inspections completed
- Collaborated with engineers, contractors, and other trades to complete projects on time
- Followed strict safety procedures, minimizing workplace hazards and ensuring OSHA compliance
- Upgraded outdated electrical systems to improve efficiency and meet modern standards
- Responded to emergency service calls to quickly restore electrical power
- Trained apprentices and junior electricians on tools, safety, and procedures
Education
Motor Controls and Troubleshooting -
Odessa College
Odessa, TX01-1998
High School Grad -
Odessa High School
Odessa, TX01-1990
Skills
- Industrial automation and process control
- PLC programming (Allen-Bradley / Rockwell), Scada Pac, ABB Totalflow
- SCADA and HMI systems (Factorytalk View SE & ME, Servers, Wonderware Intouch
- Control system troubleshooting
- Process instrumentation
- Instrumentation and measurement
- Modbus communication (TCP/IP & Serial)
- Field to plant communications (Ethernet, Serial, Cell, Starlink)
- Electrical systems (low/medium voltage)
- Oil and gas production automation
- Commissioning and startup
- Root cause analysis (RCA)
Certification
- Factorytalk View SE Programming CCV207, 12/24
- Vega Basic Startup & Commissioning, 11/23
Automation Highlights
- Hands-on experience with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and field automation
- Proven success improving uptime, system reliability, and process efficiency
- Strong knowledge of end-to-end control systems (instrumentation → PLC → SCADA)
- Capable of performing at a senior controls technician level in industrial environments
Technical Expertise
ControlLogix, CompactLogix, MicroLogix, Ladder Logic (LD), Function Block (FBD), Structured Text (ST), Studio 5000, RSLogix 500/5000, Online/Offline programming, diagnostics, and edits, Ignition, FactoryTalk, Wonderware, Tag configuration, alarm management, and historian systems, HMI development, troubleshooting, and operator interface optimization, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP, Serial Communications, Remote I/O: Point I/O, Flex I/O, PLC–SCADA integration and network troubleshooting, Ubiquity networking and surveillance and camera systems, PID loop tuning and advanced process control, VFD setup, motor controls, and automation integration, Redundancy systems and failover strategies, Data acquisition and real-time monitoring
Timeline
Automation Coordinator
San Mateo Midstream
07.2026 - Current
I&E / Automation Technician
Cardinal Midstream
01.2023 - 07.2026
I&E Technician
Medallion Midstream
01.2018 - 01.2023
I&E Technician
Point Forward Inc.
05.2015 - 01.2018
Maintenance Electrician
Bridges Equipment
04.2006 - 05.2015
Maintenance Department Manager
Big Tex Trailers
09.2002 - 04.2006
Electrician
Loving Electric
03.1993 - 09.2002
Motor Controls and Troubleshooting -
Odessa College
High School Grad -
Odessa High School