Entry Level Computer Engineer Jobs in Elkhart, IN

Job Posting End Date
07-31-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date
Job Summary
A P&C Field Technologist Associate is responsible for performing work associated with the programming, operation, testing and maintenance of fundamental protection and control devices and related equipment. P&C's primary focus is understanding control circuitry and utilizing computer-based testing and analysis of devices and equipment that includes, but is not limited to, digital relays, electromechanical relays, intelligent electronic devices, Station Disturbance Recorders (SDR), Digital Fault Recorders (DFR), system event recorders, Remote Terminal Units (RTU's) and station SCADA systems (dispatcher remote control systems), statistical load metering, telemetering and potential/current transducers. Additionally, will maintain and operate all power line carriers (PLC), tone, pilot wire, fiber and associated P&C communications over the power grid network. Within the discipline of P&C, will occasionally respond to emergency callouts at electrical substations and coordinate prompt restoration of service to customers as required.
This list is not intended to limit assignment of work or the degree of supervision under all operating conditions. Employee may perform miscellaneous, related, and incidental work in addition to that specifically outlined below.
Job Description
What you'll do:
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Test fundamental protection & control devices and equipment periodically and as required.
• Calibrate fundamental protection & control devices and equipment on a pre-established schedule and as required.
• Assist with switching at all voltage levels under the direction of the proper Dispatching Authority.
• Maintain test equipment in good working order.
• Maintain accurate records, reports and drawings as required.
• Operate a computer device to test, calibrate, and retrieve data from protection & control devices.
• Assist in the installation, maintenance, and operation of all relays, power line carrier sets, station SCADA, and associated communications equipment or cables as assigned.
• Troubleshoot and repair fundamental electromechanical relays.
• Troubleshoot and repair microprocessor-based relays at the card level, such as replacing power supplies, communications cards, I/O cards, etc.
• Assist with the diagnosis of equipment failures, protection mis-operations, and assist with corrective action to perform repairs and prevent recurrence.
• Ensure the circuitry, installation and operation of equipment is correct prior to placing equipment in service. Read electrical schematics and determine that the physical installation at the site is electrically equivalent to the schematic. Record test readings and results and determine they are within acceptable specifications and thus the physical installation will perform as per the design.
• Basic fault analysis: obtain oscillography data to determine if the protective devices operated as per their issued relay settings.
• Assisting a team in the installation, testing, and commissioning of new P&C systems for capital construction projects. Assist the on-site technical lead with directing the activities of contract wireman and the activities of other P&C field personnel assigned to their project.
• While most work is performed within climate-controlled facilities, P&C has occasional activities requiring work to be performed outdoors in both summer and winter conditions.

What we're looking for:
COMPETENCIES/TECHNICAL PROFICIENCY:

• Possesses technical to entry level knowledge acquired from a Bachelor's Degree in an ABET accredited engineering technology program;
• Demonstrates the ability to perform with proper guidance special technical functions required in the relevant area of assignment;
• Gains familiarity with standards, codes, and regulations relevant to the area of assignment;
• Gains familiarity with pertinent equipment, materials, systems, and business processes;
• Assists higher level employees in handling well defined portions of routine problems;

PLANNING AND ORGANIZATION ABILITY:

• Maintains required records to support assignments and prepares special reports for tests, equipment performance, projects and other reports as assigned;
• Plans work in accordance with AEP standard planning practices;
• Prioritizes routine work to meet the demands of the company;
• Assists with providing input to annual budget, capital forecasts, five-year plan, and improvement requisitions;
• Participates in planning meetings covering scheduling, operations, and maintenance of equipment;
• Assists in the preparation of basic cost estimates using established guidelines;

PROBLEM-SOLVING AND INITIATIVE:

• Seeks opportunity to work beyond routine assignments by solving problems of light complexity;
• Actively seeks out information to increase technical knowledge in area of responsibility;
• Applies technical knowledge in resolving basic problems encountered in assigned work;
• Uses initiative in looking for opportunities to increase job knowledge/technical skills.

DECISION MAKING AND BUSINESS AWARENESS CHARACTERISTICS:

• Develops an understanding of AEP's organizational structure and the specific role and responsibility of their individual business unit;
• Develops a basic understanding of utility accounting and financing;
• Demonstrates an attitude, ability and desire to listen to and satisfy both internal and external customers who use and depend on our work;
• Participation in professional and business organizations is encouraged;
• Develops decision-making skills under guidance of higher-level employees;
• Develops an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the local organizational unit.

Education requirements are listed below:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) or
• Bachelor's degree in engineering technology in a program accredited by the Technology Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
• Preferred degrees are in Electrical Engineering (EE) and Electrical Engineering Technology (EET).

Work Experience requirement listed below:

• This is an entry level position for new graduates with a Bachelor's degree.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Must successfully complete the Physical Abilities Test (PAT).
• Must be able to distinguish colors on a standard color blindness test.
• Must demonstrate the ability to perform duties in an alert, safe, and business-like manner and the ability to deal with customers and other employees in a courteous and professional manner.
• Ability to interpret, analyze and transmit facts graphically, orally, and in writing clearly and precisely.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license and must meet all vehicle operation requirements as designated by federal and/or state law.
• While not normally scheduled, considerable travel and overtime may be required to complete work assignments.

Other skills that support the P&C Field Technologist Associate position:

• Working knowledge of current, potential, closing and trip circuits.
• Working knowledge of material such as cable, lugs, and wire as applied to protective relay and control circuits.
• Working knowledge of assembly, anchoring, and interchangeability of the various switchboard panel-support and through systems.
• Must have the ability to read, understand, and correct electrical prints and diagrams and the ability to use hand tools.

What you'll get:
In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
At AEP, we're more than just an energy company - we're a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
SP20-005
Compensation Range:
$30.53 - $52.67
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: L - Light Work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or 10 to 12 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 5-6 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for sedentary work. Even though the weight lifted may be only a negligible amount, a job should be rated Light Work: (1) When it requires walking or standing to a significant degree; or (2) when it requires sitting most of the time, but entails pushing and/or pulling of arm or leg c ontrols; and/or (3) when the job requires working at a production rate pace entailing the constant pushing and/or pulling of materials even though the weight of those materials is negligible. NOTE: The constant stress and strain of maintaining a production rate pace, especially in an industrial setting, can be and is physically demanding of a worker even though the amount of force exerted is negligible
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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.