Entry Level Automation Engineer Jobs in North Carolina

Location:

Job ID:

Date Posted:

Company Name:

Profession (Job Category):

Job Schedule:

Remote:

Job Description:

Basic Function: The Automation Junior Engineer supports the design, configuration, testing, and implementation of substation automation systems using Hitachi EnergyMicroSCADAand related technologies. This entry-level role focuses on developing technicalexpertisethrough structured training, mentorship, and hands-on project experience.

The Opportunity: At Hitachi Energy, we are looking for a motivated, early-career engineer who is eager to build a career in substation automation and digital power systems. This role is designed for individuals with strong technical foundations, curiosity, and a passion for learning.Prior hands-on experience with automation systems is not required. Through structured training and mentorship, you will gain experience designing, configuring, testing, and supporting automation systems that play a critical role in modern electrical grids.

You will work alongside experienced engineers and technical specialists while gaining exposure to SCADA systems, MicroSCADA applications, communication networks, substation automation technologies, and industry-leading engineering practices.

This is an opportunity to contribute to innovative solutions that support grid reliability, renewable energy integration, and the ongoing digitalization of utility infrastructure.

Key responsibilities for engineering include, but are not limited to, the following:

System Design & Configuration

• Support the design and implementation of substation automation systems.

• Assistin configuringMicroSCADAapplications, HMI displays, alarms, and data acquisition functions.

• Learn and support communication protocol implementation, including IEC 61850, Modbus, DNP3, and GOOSE.

• Assistwith preparation of engineering documentation and network diagrams.
• Participate in engineering reviews and design validation activities.

Project Execution

• Support project activities to ensure quality, schedule, and customer requirements are met.

• Participate in FAT,SATand commissioning support activities.

• Assistwith system verification,validationand troubleshooting.
• Contribute to project documentation and engineering deliverables.

Integration & Support

• Support integration of automation systems with protection and control equipment.

• Assistwith configuration and testing ofMicroSCADAsystems and communication gateways.
• Support installation and startup activities both remotely and on-site when required

Documentation & Reporting

• Assist in preparing engineering reports and technical documentation.
• Maintain accurate records of configurations, testing activities, and project changes.
• Support the preparation of customer documentation and project close-out packages

Customer & Team Collaboration

• Collaborate with engineering, project management, field service, and sales teams.
• Participate in customer meetings and technical discussions as required.
• Support customer issue resolution under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Build effective professional relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Follow all Hitachi Energy health, safety, environmental, and cybersecurity procedures.
• Support safe working practices during office, laboratory, factory, and on-site activities.
• Learn and contribute to a culture of safety, integrity, quality, and accountability.
• Ensure compliance with company procedures and industry standards.

Training & Development

You will receive structured, on-the-job trainingto develop expertise in:

• Substation automation systems and power system applications
• Hitachi Energy MicroSCADA platforms
• SCADA architecture and HMI development
• IEC 61850 communication standards and engineering practices
• Industrial communication protocols including Modbus, DNP3, and GOOSE
• Network and cybersecurity fundamentals for automation systems
• System integration, testing, and troubleshooting methodologies

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience: 0-2 years (internships and co-op experience considered).
• Basic understanding of electrical power systems, automation systems, or industrial controls.
• Interest in substation automation, SCADA systems, and power system technologies.
• Familiarity with programming, networking, or industrial communication concepts is considered an asset.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Willingness to travel up to 20% of the time.
• Work authorization that permits employment in the United States.

Career Development Path

This role provides a foundation for progression into:

• Automation Engineer
• Automation Commissioning Engineer
• Automation Specialist
• Lead Automation Engineer

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)-Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

Equal Employment Opportunity

Hitachi is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, including females, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals

with disabilities.

Accessibility and reasonable accommodation

Protected veterans and qualified individuals with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access the Hitachi Energy career site as a result of your disability. You may request reasonable accommodations by completing a general inquiry form on our website. Please include your contact information and specific details about your required accommodation to support you during the job application process.

This accommodation channel is solely for job seekers with disabilities requiring accessibility assistance or an accommodation in the job application process. Messages left for other purposes will not receive a response.

Use of Al and automated tools in recruitment

As part of our recruitment process, Hitachi Energy uses digital and automated tools, including Al-supported solutions, to assist with activities such as application screening, job matching, and interview scheduling. These tools are designed to support our recruiters and do not replace human decision-making. Candidate data is processed in accordance with applicable data protection and employment laws as well as Hitachi's Global Data Privacy Notice.