NICK GRYDER
Snyder
Summary
Electrical Automation Specialist with a solid foundation in troubleshooting, optimizing PLC systems, and designing user-friendly interfaces. Committed to improving system integration and performance while ensuring compliance with safety protocols. Proven ability to provide technical support and document program changes effectively.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Instrumentation and Electrical Technician
Energy Transfer
Big Spring
09.2025 - Current
- Executed troubleshooting and maintenance on PLC systems, enhancing system reliability and uptime.
- Debugged PLC programs to identify errors and improve overall system performance.
- Configured communication networks between PLCs and automation devices using Ethernet and IP protocols.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to improve system integration and optimize performance.
- Designed intuitive interfaces for efficient machine operation and monitoring.
- Provided technical support to operators during equipment malfunctions to minimize downtime.
- Implemented safety protocols according to industry regulations to enhance workplace safety.
- Documented program changes for compliance and training, ensuring adherence to industry standards.
Automation Specialist
Occidental Petroleum
Snyder
04.2017 - 01.2020
- Maintained, debugged, and optimized automation programs to ensure operational efficiency.
- Exercised complete understanding of PLC programming to support projects.
- Troubleshot electrical equipment issues, including electro-valves and sensors, to minimize downtime.
- Assisted maintenance personnel in complex troubleshooting to resolve critical equipment issues.
- Conducted tests and diagnostic procedures using tools such as analyzers, multimeters and power supplies.
- Interpreted electric and electronic schematics and mechanical layouts to diagnose equipment problems.
- Performed preventive maintenance tasks to verify proper working condition of electrical panels and conduits.
- Installed electrical and mechanical equipment in accordance with National Electric Code.
- Measured and read DMM, meggers, micrometers and thickness gauges using electrical and mechanical testing instruments.
- Obtained measurements and readings using volt and ohm meters, meggers, IC testers and dial indicators.
Instrumentation Technician
Kinder Morgan, LLC
Snyder
12.2011 - 04.2017
- Diagnosed issues in instruments, components, and assemblies using voltmeters, circuit testers, and oscilloscopes, enhancing reliability of systems.
- Operated multimeters, oscilloscopes, meggers and other electronic testing devices to accurately diagnose equipment issues.
- Performed preventive maintenance and troubleshooting on metering instruments to maintain operational efficiency and minimize downtime.
- Installed and serviced new flow and level metering devices.
- Collaborated with engineering staff on special projects for configuration, installation, and interoperation of system equipment, ensuring optimal performance.
- Studied and interpreted equipment manuals, circuit diagrams, blueprints and schematics to determine corrective actions for repairs, calibrations and installations.
- Constructed, modified, maintained and inspected electronic industrial control systems in automation industry.
- Interpreted and utilized wiring diagrams and technical specific instructions to configure instrumentation and telemetry devices.
Electrician
Brothers Electric
Odessa
06.2005 - 12.2011
- Planned layout and installation of electrical wiring, equipment and fixtures based on specifications and applicable code.
- Inspected electrical systems and components to identify hazards and ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Installed and wired electrical hardware, including transformers, junction boxes, service panels, electrical boxes, switches and circuit breakers.
- Installed and maintained various cableways, conduits, and electrical raceways to ensure proper functionality.
- Coordinated with trades and general contractors to optimize layout of recessed fixtures and architectural lighting.
- Interpreted electrical, mechanical and architectural drawings and code specifications to ensure precise wiring layouts.
- Interpreted drawings, wiring diagrams, flow charts and written descriptions of project requirements.
- Used testing instruments such as ohmmeters, voltmeters, ammeters and multimeters.
- Conducted testing on equipment tools including oscilloscopes, ammeters, and test lamps to verify functionality.
- Demonstrated expertise in use of cable reels, stripping tools, voltage detectors, crimping tools and wire and cable cutters to complete fast-paced work.
- Worked from ladders, scaffolds and lifts to install, maintain or repair electrical wiring equipment and lighting fixtures in ceilings, on roofs and on towers.
Boiler Technician
United States Navy
San Diego
06.2001 - 06.2005
- Observed boiler and auxiliary units to detect malfunctions and make repairs, including changing burners and tightening pipes and fittings.
- Set specified water level and steam pressure of boiler by adjusting valves and controls to maintain optimal performance.
- Verified operation of automatic combustion control systems, feed water regulators, and burners by observing pressure, temperature, and draft meters.
- Monitored heating and cooling system performance through alarms, temperature and pressure differentials.
- Used chemical testing kits and oxygen scavengers to test and treat boiler feed water.
- Recorded meter and gauge data, including water test results and fuel consumption, in boiler room log to ensure accurate tracking and compliance.
- Collected and tested water samples from cooling towers and other systems.
Education
Associate of Science - Electrical, Electronics And Communications Engineering
DeVry University
Downers Grove, IL11-2015
High School Diploma -
Snyder High School
06-2001
Skills
- PLC programming
- Automation integration
- Automation design
- Control systems
- Electrical schematics design
- Technical support
- Automation
- Developing protocols
- Designing interfaces
- Modeling skills
- Project oversight
Timeline
Instrumentation and Electrical Technician
Energy Transfer
09.2025 - Current
Automation Specialist
Occidental Petroleum
04.2017 - 01.2020
Instrumentation Technician
Kinder Morgan, LLC
12.2011 - 04.2017
Electrician
Brothers Electric
06.2005 - 12.2011
Boiler Technician
United States Navy
06.2001 - 06.2005
Associate of Science - Electrical, Electronics And Communications Engineering
DeVry University
High School Diploma -
Snyder High School