Automation Control System Expertise when you need an independent second set of eyes.
Outside consulting for PLC, DCS, HMI, and functional safety decisions — not an agency, reseller, or generic integration shop.
Ryan O’Neil is an independent controls engineer based in Philadelphia with hands-on day-to-day plant experience across Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Modicon, DeltaV, DCS platforms, HMI SCADA systems, and IEC 61508/61511 Functional Safety Certification.
Served as a technical lead for modern control system integration projects across a variety of industries including oil and gas, pharmaceutical, food and beverage, waste treatement, and boiler systems.
Philadelphia + South Jersey • Delaware
Independent reviews & practical roadmaps
Focused support for decisions that carry real plant risk and align with your business goals.
Each engagement is scoped to answer a specific operational question, identify risk, and give you an actionable next step.
PLC/HMI Audit & DCS Upgrade Audit and Strategy
A diagnostic assessment of control-system condition, risk points, and a phased upgrade path.
Best for: plants considering a DCS or PLC platform upgrade and device integration.
Included: control system review • critical risk points • upgrade sequencing • written findings
Price & timeframe: scoped after an initial conversation.
System Integrator Proposal Review
An independent review of an SI proposal, backed by targeted field verification before you sign.
Best for: owners who want a second opinion before committing capital.
Included: proposal redline • 4–8 hours of field verification • scope and pricing flags • review call and recommendation
Price & timeframe: scoped to proposal complexity.
Functional Safety (SIS/SIF) Tracking & Recommendations
Audit of current functional safety status, culture and risk assessment. Recommendation of what needs attention. SIF documentation template for device tracking on request. Prioritized recommendations aligned to IEC 61508/61511 expectations.
Best for: plants needing a functional safety review without in-house depth.
Included: SIF audit • documentation gaps • prioritized recommendations • SIF maintenance tracker on request
Price & timeframe: based on SIF count and available records.
Automation Audit — $500+
A practical baseline review that turns plant goals into a near-term action plan and long-term automation strategy.
Best for: teams that need an objective starting point for automation priorities.
Included: 2 meetings • up to 3 site visits • systems audit • final presentation with action plan
$500+ depending on scope and plant size • typically delivered over 2–3 weeks.
How it works
A straightforward path from question to recommendation.
01
Reach out
Send a brief note about the decision or system you need reviewed.
02
Scoping conversation
We define what needs to be inspected, answered, or documented.
03
Fixed quote
You receive a defined scope, deliverable, fee, and timeframe before work begins.
04
Delivery
Receive practical findings, prioritized recommendations, and a clear next move.
Contact
Need a practical, honest, and knowledgeable controls review prioritizing your goals and best interests?
Engagements are currently limited alongside full-time plant work. Expect a response within two business days.