Automation and controls engineer - PEM water electrolysis

Controls engineer

Are you passionate about technology for a greener world? You might be our new controls engineer.

Green hydrogen has a central role in shaping a sustainable energy future. At Hystar, we believe the full potential of renewables can only be realized by large-scale energy storage and use of hydrogen in heavy-duty transportation and industry.

Based on a new and unique patented PEM electrolyser concept, Hystar is currently developing our next-generation PEM electrolyser to accelerate the deployment of large-scale green hydrogen production. Hystar is an innovative, fast growing, high-tech company, based at Høvik, just outside Oslo, Norway. At Hystar, you will have the opportunity to shape the future of the company as well as develop your own career.

 We are currently operating a 1MW PEM electrolyser at the Kårstø gas processing plant in Norway, as well as delivering units in Finland and Poland later this year and you will be a key resource in these projects. Are you the next star in the Hystar constellation?  

Job description

As a controls engineer, you will support the timely delivery of control and safety systems for our megawatt scale electrolysers. You will contribute towards the design of communication networks, operation strategy, software design, electrical design, systems for data collection and monitoring, cyber security, component selection, and system optimization.

Both senior and junior candidates are encouraged to apply for this position. Responsibilities and qualification requirements will be adjusted according to experience level, competence, and background.

You should expect some travelling, both domestically and to our customers and partners abroad. You will be part of a rapidly growing, international team of motivated people who are dedicated to making green hydrogen a competitive alternative to fossil fuels – do you want to make an impact on the future? Then join us!

Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Design, develop, and optimize control systems for PEM electrolysers, including PLC, SCADA, and HMI programming.
• Implement automation strategies to improve system performance, reliability, and scalability.
• Collaborate with process, mechanical and electrical engineers to integrate control solutions into our electrolyser systems.
• Develop and maintain control logic, safety interlocks, and alarm management systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation-related issues in existing and new systems.
• Participate in system testing, validation, and commissioning of electrolysers in the field
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and cybersecurity best practices.
• Participate in plant safety studies and design reviews (HAZOP/LOPA)
• Design and development of communication networks, both internal to Hystar’s products and external communication with client networks.

Qualifications and requirements:         

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Control Systems, or a related field.
• Experience with PLC programming (Siemens TIA Portal or similar) and industrial automation systems.
• Knowledge of SCADA, HMI design, and industrial communication protocols (Modbus, OPC, Profibus, etc.).
• Familiarity with process instrumentation, sensors, and control loop tuning.
• Experience in hydrogen production, electrolyser systems, or energy storage (preferred but not required).
• Willingness to travel for commissioning and support activities.
• Excellent English written and verbal communication skills
• Experience with commercial products, specifically considering explosive environments.
• Software specification and design in accordance with IEC 61508 / IEC 61511
• Candidate should  be self-motivated and enjoy working in a team environment.
• A can-do attitude and a willingness to get involved in all aspects of the project lifecycle.

We offer: 

A stimulating working environment with skilled colleagues and a 100% permanent position. Hystar offers great opportunity for an efficient career development and personal growth. Place of work will be Høvik, Norway.

If you have any questions regarding Hystar or the position, please contact: magnus.thomassen@hystar.com

Deadline: As soon as possible and no later than 28.03.2025

Accession: As soon as possible and by appointment