Instrumentation and Controls Lead Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Instrumentation and Controls Lead Designer Company: SBM Offshore Location: Bangalore, India Job Type: Full-time Category: Engineering Operations / Design Date Posted: September 15, 2025 Experience Level: 10+ Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and execution of Instrumentation and Controls (I&C) discipline scope for complex offshore projects, ensuring adherence to project objectives and company standards.
• Drive the development of reliable, cost-effective, and safe engineering design solutions, managing all aspects of the discipline's deliverables.
• Plan and manage discipline resource needs, proactively completing activities and deliverables within agreed timeframes and budgets.
• Ensure seamless interface management with internal teams, clients, subcontractors, vendors, classification societies, and regulatory bodies.
• Uphold compliance with international codes, company standards, and industry regulations throughout the design lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Instrumentation and Controls Lead Designer," the core responsibilities and required skills align with an operations-focused engineering design leadership role. The emphasis is on delivering operational-ready designs that are safe, reliable, and cost-effective, managing the engineering process and team within a project context. This suggests a strong need for process management, stakeholder coordination, and technical oversight, which are critical in GTM operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and execute the discipline's Scope of Work in accordance with contractual and SBM's internal requirements, ensuring quality and compliance.
• Accountable for the selection of appropriate methods and procedures for engineering design and calculations within the I&C discipline.
• Proactively plan and manage the timely and budget-conscious completion of all discipline activities and deliverables.
• Define, manage, and forecast the resource requirements for the I&C discipline on assigned projects.
• Manage and coordinate discipline interfaces, including those with third parties such as clients, subcontractors, vendors, classification societies, and regulatory bodies.
• Capture and implement lessons learned to continuously improve design processes and outcomes.
• Understand and manage the impact of changes within and across project system boundaries, ensuring design integrity.
• Act as Principal Designer or Discipline Designer for specific scopes, providing technical leadership and guidance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on project execution, process adherence, and resource management, which are key operational functions within an engineering context. The role requires not just technical design but also the management of engineering processes, interfaces, and resources to ensure project success, mirroring aspects of project operations and delivery management common in GTM roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Design, or a related technical field.

Experience: 10 to 15 years of progressive experience in the Oil & Gas industry, with a significant focus on Instrumentation and Controls design.

Required Skills:

• Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Engineering: Deep understanding of I&C systems, instrumentation, control valves, PLCs, DCS, safety instrumented systems (SIS), and field instrumentation.
• Engineering Design & Calculation Tools: Proficiency in using specialized software for engineering design, calculations, and simulations (e.g., CAD, CAE, simulation software).
• Detailed Design: Expertise in developing detailed design packages, including P&IDs, instrument datasheets, loop diagrams, wiring schematics, and control system architecture.
• Systems Engineering: Ability to apply systems engineering principles to ensure integrated and functional I&C solutions.
• Package Engineering: Experience in specifying, evaluating, and managing vendor packages for instrumentation and control equipment.
• Telecommunication Systems: Familiarity with telecommunication systems and architectures relevant to offshore installations.
• Site Engineering Support: Understanding of site engineering requirements and the ability to support construction and commissioning phases.
• Analysis & Planning: Strong analytical skills for problem-solving and robust planning capabilities for project execution.

Preferred Skills:

• ICSS Expertise: Experience with Integrated Control and Safety Systems (ICSS) specific to the offshore industry.
• Project Management Fundamentals: Basic understanding of project management principles for managing scope, schedule, and resources.
• Regulatory Compliance: Knowledge of relevant international codes, standards (e.g., IEC, ISA, API), and regulatory requirements for offshore I&C systems.
• Vendor Management: Experience in managing and coordinating with vendors for equipment procurement and technical support.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are heavily technical and design-oriented. For an operations-focused enhancement, it's crucial to highlight how these technical skills translate into operational efficiency and reliability. The ability to manage detailed design, package engineering, and systems integration directly impacts the successful deployment and ongoing operation of offshore facilities, requiring a strong operational mindset in the design phase.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Package Examples: Showcase a portfolio of completed I&C design packages, including P&IDs, instrument lists, control narratives, loop diagrams, and cause & effect diagrams.
• System Integration Case Studies: Demonstrate experience in integrating various I&C components and systems (e.g., DCS, SIS, SCADA, field instruments) into a cohesive and functional plant control system.
• Vendor Package Management: Provide examples of technical specifications for instrumentation and control equipment, and demonstrate experience in the evaluation and selection process for vendor packages.
• Compliance Documentation: Evidence of ensuring designs comply with relevant industry standards (e.g., ISA, IEC) and project-specific specifications.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Optimization: Illustrate experience in defining and optimizing design workflows for I&C engineering, from conceptual design through to detailed engineering.
• Design Review Processes: Document participation in and contribution to design review meetings (e.g., P&ID reviews, HAZOP support, constructability reviews) to ensure design quality and safety.
• Technical Query (TQ) Management: Demonstrate experience in managing and resolving technical queries during the engineering and construction phases, ensuring design intent is maintained.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role with "Lead Designer" in its title, a strong portfolio demonstrating process management and successful project delivery is essential. The emphasis should be on how the candidate's design work directly contributes to the operational efficiency, safety, and reliability of the final product, reflecting an operations-centric approach to design.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For an Instrumentation and Controls Lead Designer with 10-15 years of experience in Bangalore, India, the estimated annual salary range would typically be between ₹1,500,000 to ₹3,000,000 (Indian Rupees). This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering roles in the Oil & Gas sector in India, considering the specialized skills and leadership responsibilities. Factors such as the specific company's compensation structure, the candidate's precise experience, and the project's complexity can influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for employees and dependents.
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions.
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Professional development opportunities, including training, certifications, and conference attendance.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses and incentives.
• Exposure to cutting-edge offshore energy projects and technologies.
• Opportunity to work with a global team of experts in the energy sector.

Working Hours: Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with potential for overtime depending on project demands and deadlines. Flexibility may be offered, but the role is primarily on-site requiring consistent presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on common practices for senior engineering roles in India's Oil & Gas sector. Benefits are standard offerings that would appeal to experienced professionals in engineering operations. The mention of overtime acknowledges the project-driven nature of this industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Oil & Gas / Ocean Infrastructure / Energy Transition. SBM Offshore operates at the forefront of deepwater ocean infrastructure, playing a crucial role in both traditional energy production and the emerging blue economy. This context means the company is navigating significant shifts towards cleaner energy, requiring innovative engineering solutions.

Company Size: SBM Offshore is a large, publicly traded company with a significant global presence, employing thousands of people worldwide. This scale offers stability, extensive resources, and opportunities for international collaboration.

Founded: SBM Offshore N.V. is a listed holding company headquartered in Amsterdam, with a long history in the offshore industry. This established presence indicates deep industry expertise and a robust organizational structure.

Team Structure:

• The Instrumentation and Controls Lead Designer will likely be part of a larger Engineering department, potentially organized by discipline (e.g., I&C, Mechanical, Electrical, Process).
• The role will involve leading a team of I&C designers and engineers, and collaborating closely with other engineering disciplines, project management, procurement, and construction teams.
• Reporting is likely to a Senior Engineering Manager or Head of Department, with direct interaction with project managers and client representatives.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using data and analytical tools to inform design decisions, ensuring efficiency and reliability.
• Process Standardization: Adherence to rigorous engineering processes and standards to maintain quality and safety across all projects.
• Collaborative Development: Fostering a collaborative environment for design reviews, knowledge sharing, and problem-solving across disciplines.
• Continuous Improvement: Commitment to learning from past projects, capturing lessons learned, and implementing best practices in future designs.

Company Website: www.sbmoffshore.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on "True. Blue. Transition." signifies a commitment to sustainability and evolving energy markets. For an operations professional, this means working in an environment that values innovation, adaptation, and long-term strategic thinking within the energy sector.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a senior/lead level within the engineering design function, equating to a mid-to-senior management or specialist leadership track within operations. It involves significant technical authority and responsibility for a critical engineering discipline.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Designer typically reports to a higher-level engineering manager (e.g., Engineering Manager, Discipline Manager) and is responsible for leading a team of designers and engineers within their discipline on specific projects. They will interface with Project Managers and other stakeholders to ensure alignment and delivery.

Operations Impact: The I&C Lead Designer's work directly influences the operational efficiency, safety, reliability, and maintainability of complex offshore energy infrastructure. Well-designed control systems are paramount for optimizing production, minimizing downtime, and ensuring safe operations in harsh environments. Their decisions impact CAPEX and OPEX by influencing equipment selection, system complexity, and automation levels.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced I&C technologies, automation, and digital solutions for offshore applications.
• Project Leadership: Progress to higher leadership roles such as Lead Engineer, Project Engineering Manager, or even Project Manager, overseeing multiple disciplines.
• Discipline Management: Advance to manage entire engineering disciplines, setting standards, developing talent, and overseeing resource allocation across numerous projects.
• Cross-Functional Roles: Transition into roles focused on operational efficiency, commissioning management, or even business development for engineering services.
• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on international projects and gain exposure to diverse operational environments and regulatory frameworks.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within specialized engineering operations, leading to significant project leadership and management opportunities. The emphasis on offshore infrastructure and the energy transition provides a dynamic career trajectory with a focus on impactful, large-scale projects.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in an office environment, likely a modern engineering design center or corporate office, located in Bangalore, India. This setting will be typical for design and project execution teams.

Office Location(s): Bangalore, India (560071). This location is a major hub for engineering and technology in India, offering access to skilled talent and a robust business infrastructure.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Design Spaces: The workspace will likely include open-plan areas for design teams, meeting rooms equipped for technical discussions and reviews, and individual workstations with powerful computing capabilities for design software.
• Technology & Tools: Access to state-of-the-art design software, simulation tools, and IT infrastructure necessary for complex engineering tasks.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with a diverse team of engineers, designers, project managers, and other professionals, fostering a dynamic and knowledge-rich environment.
• Project Focus: A project-centric atmosphere where teams are focused on delivering complex engineering solutions within defined timelines and budgets.

Work Schedule: The primary work schedule will be on-site, Monday to Friday, aligning with standard business hours. However, the demanding nature of offshore projects may necessitate flexibility and occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines or address urgent project issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the need for direct collaboration and hands-on leadership, which is typical for lead engineering roles in complex project environments. Bangalore's status as a tech hub suggests a well-equipped and modern working environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruitment team reviews applications and resumes for basic qualifications and experience.
• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions with hiring managers and senior I&C engineers to assess technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and understanding of I&C design principles. This may include scenario-based questions.
• Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely be asked to present and discuss their portfolio, highlighting key projects, design methodologies, and their specific contributions. This is a critical stage for demonstrating practical application of skills.
• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of leadership style, team collaboration, communication skills, and alignment with SBM Offshore's values and culture.
• Final Interview: May involve senior management or department heads for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Leadership: Highlight instances where you led design teams, managed interfaces, or made critical design decisions.
• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, quantify the outcomes of your designs (e.g., improved efficiency by X%, reduced downtime, cost savings achieved).
• Process Focus: Clearly articulate the design processes you followed, including planning, reviews, and problem-solving methodologies.
• Complexity & Scope: Select projects that demonstrate your ability to handle complex offshore I&C systems and large-scale projects.
• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical details of your chosen projects, including the rationale behind specific design choices.
• Problem-Solving: Use case studies to illustrate how you identified and resolved technical challenges in your previous roles.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenarios: Be prepared for hypothetical design challenges related to offshore I&C systems, requiring you to outline your approach, considerations, and potential solutions.
• System Integration: Expect questions on how to integrate different I&C components and ensure seamless operation of complex systems.
• Standard Compliance: Review common I&C standards and regulations relevant to the Oil & Gas industry.
• Team Management: Prepare to discuss how you would manage a team of designers, delegate tasks, and ensure quality deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is a crucial component for a Lead Designer. Candidates should prepare to not only show their work but also explain the "why" and "how" behind their design decisions, emphasizing process, efficiency, and leadership.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD, MicroStation, or similar for creating P&IDs, layout drawings, and schematics.
• CAE/Simulation Software: Tools for instrument sizing, control loop tuning, hazardous area calculations, and system simulations (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, SmartPlant Instrumentation, ETAP).
• 3D Modeling Software: For plant design and integration (e.g., SmartPlant 3D, PDMS).
• Document Management Systems: Platforms for managing design documents, revisions, and transmittals.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in analyzing technical data for design validation and optimization.
• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate technical reports and summaries of design work.

CRM & Automation:

• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems: Familiarity with systems used for project management, procurement, and resource planning.
• Project Management Software: Tools for scheduling, tracking progress, and managing project deliverables (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project).

📝 Enhancement Note: While not traditional "revenue operations" tools, the proficiency in engineering design software and project management systems is critical for this role's operational success. These tools are the backbone of delivering complex engineering projects efficiently and reliably.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to safety in all design decisions and project execution activities, ensuring the well-being of personnel and the environment.
• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards, honesty, and transparency in all dealings and project execution.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where shared knowledge, mutual respect, and collective problem-solving are encouraged.
• Innovation: Encouraging creative thinking and the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to enhance design solutions and operational efficiency.
• Excellence: Striving for the highest quality in all deliverables and operational performance, with a focus on continuous improvement.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: A highly collaborative approach, working closely with process, mechanical, electrical, structural engineers, project managers, and procurement teams to ensure integrated and optimized designs.
• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open and proactive communication channels with all stakeholders, including clients and vendors, to manage expectations and resolve issues promptly.
• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in design reviews, mentoring junior engineers, and contributing to the collective knowledge base of the engineering department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on safety, integrity, and collaboration aligns with the core principles of effective operations management. The ability to foster cross-functional integration is key to ensuring that designs translate into smooth and efficient operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Project Requirements: Navigating the intricate technical requirements and stringent safety regulations of offshore energy projects.
• Interface Management: Effectively managing numerous interfaces between disciplines, vendors, clients, and regulatory bodies to ensure design coherence and compliance.
• Technological Advancement: Keeping pace with evolving I&C technologies, automation, and digital solutions to incorporate best practices into designs.
• Global Project Execution: Adapting to diverse project locations, regulatory environments, and team dynamics across different cultures.
• Resource Optimization: Balancing project demands with available resources to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery without compromising quality.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced I&C Training: Access to specialized training on the latest instrumentation, control systems, and automation technologies.
• Project Management Skills: Development opportunities in project planning, execution, and leadership through participation in and management of complex projects.
• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining industry-recognized certifications in engineering, project management, or specific I&C technologies.
• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to be mentored by senior industry professionals and to mentor junior engineers, fostering leadership development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in large-scale engineering projects, requiring strong problem-solving, adaptability, and continuous learning – all hallmarks of successful operations professionals. The growth opportunities clearly outline a path for career advancement within specialized engineering operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Philosophy: "Describe your philosophy for designing reliable and cost-effective Instrumentation and Controls systems for offshore environments. How do you balance safety, performance, and budget?" (Prepare to discuss risk assessment, redundancy, and lifecycle cost considerations).
• Interface Management: "Walk me through a complex interface challenge you managed on a previous project. What was the situation, how did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills).
• Team Leadership: "How do you motivate and manage a team of engineering designers to achieve project goals under tight deadlines?" (Prepare examples of delegation, performance feedback, conflict resolution, and fostering a collaborative environment).
• Technical Problem Solving: "Describe a significant technical issue you encountered with an I&C system design. What was the root cause, and how did you resolve it?" (Use the STAR method for a clear, concise, and impactful answer).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "True. Blue. Transition.": "How do you see your role contributing to SBM Offshore's 'True. Blue. Transition.' strategy, particularly in the context of designing for both traditional and emerging energy markets?" (Research SBM Offshore's sustainability initiatives and prepare to link your design expertise to these goals).
• Innovation: "How do you stay current with technological advancements in I&C and how have you incorporated innovative solutions into your past designs?" (Highlight your proactive learning and adoption of new tools or methodologies).
• Collaboration: "Describe a situation where you had to collaborate closely with other engineering disciplines to achieve an optimal design outcome. What was your role and what made the collaboration successful?" (Focus on cross-functional teamwork and communication).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or by key responsibilities (e.g., design leadership, system integration, vendor management).
• Narrative: For each project, clearly state the objective, your specific role and responsibilities, the key design decisions made, the challenges faced, and the quantifiable results achieved.
• Visuals: Use clear diagrams, P&IDs, or system architecture drawings to illustrate your work.
• Focus on Process: Emphasize the design processes, standards, and methodologies you applied.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your most impactful projects within a limited timeframe, focusing on key achievements and learnings.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should emphasize demonstrating not just technical prowess but also leadership, project management acumen, and a strategic understanding of how engineering design impacts operational success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Instrumentation and Controls Lead Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the SBM Offshore careers portal.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 10-15 years of experience in the Oil & Gas industry, specifically focusing on Instrumentation and Controls design leadership. Use keywords from the job description such as "ICSS," "Engineering Design," "Detailed Design," and "Systems Engineering." Quantify achievements where possible.
• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a strong portfolio showcasing your best work in offshore I&C design. Ensure it includes examples of P&IDs, loop diagrams, system architecture, vendor package management, and case studies demonstrating problem-solving and process optimization. Be ready to present and discuss this portfolio confidently.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research SBM Offshore's projects, values, and their "True. Blue. Transition." strategy. Understand their market position and commitment to sustainability to align your responses with the company's vision.
• Interview Practice: Prepare for technical and behavioral interviews. Practice articulating your design philosophy, leadership approach, and how you manage complex project interfaces. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.