ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Protocol Engineer Jobs in Austin, TX

MWResource, Inc.

Power System Engineer

Taylor, TX · On-site +1

$42.30 - $59.15/hr

Reviews interconnection applications to ensure compliance with company Planning Guides, Protocols ... Requirements For entry level - Less than one year experience (in excess of degree requirements ...

MWResource, Inc.

Power System Engineer

Taylor, TX · Remote

$42.30 - $59.15/hr

Reviews interconnection applications to ensure compliance with company Planning Guides, Protocols ... Requirements For entry level - Less than one year experience (in excess of degree requirements ...

MWResource, Inc.

Power System Engineer

Taylor, TX · On-site +1

$42.30 - $59.15/hr

Reviews interconnection applications to ensure compliance with company Planning Guides, Protocols ... Requirements For entry level - Less than one year experience (in excess of degree requirements ...

Paradromics

Manufacturing Operator

Austin, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

The Role The Operator I role is an entry-level manufacturing position responsible for reliably ... Maintain cleanroom protocols, gowning standards, and contamination-control practices. * Participate ...

Paradromics, Inc.

Manufacturing Operator

Austin, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

The Role The Operator I role is an entry-level manufacturing position responsible for reliably ... Maintain cleanroom protocols, gowning standards, and contamination-control practices. * Participate ...

Apply Early

GovernmentJobs.com

Network Specialist I

Austin, TX · On-site

Performs entry-level network work. Work involves assisting in the implementation, maintenance, and ... Engineer or IT Technician. Experience with network connectivity, technologies, protocols, and ...

All JobsEntry Level Protocol Engineer JobsEntry Level Protocol Engineer Jobs in Austin, TX

Entry Level Protocol Engineer information

See Austin, TX salary details

$29.7K

$68.8K

$117K

How much do entry level protocol engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level protocol engineer in Austin, TX is $68,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $77,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an Entry Level Protocol Engineer?

As an Entry Level Protocol Engineer, you can expect to spend your days assisting in the design, implementation, and testing of network protocols. You'll likely work closely with senior engineers to troubleshoot issues, write and review code, and participate in team meetings to discuss protocol specifications and improvements. Collaboration with QA teams and developers is common to ensure interoperability and performance. Over time, you'll gain exposure to documentation, debugging tools, and the latest industry standards, helping you build a strong foundation in protocol engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Protocol Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Protocol Engineer, you need a strong understanding of computer networking, programming (often in languages like C/C++ or Python), and a relevant degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with networking tools, packet analyzers (like Wireshark), and foundational knowledge of protocols such as TCP/IP, HTTP, or newer blockchain protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help set candidates apart. These competencies are essential for designing, testing, and maintaining reliable network or blockchain protocols that support robust and secure digital communication.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Executive or managerial roles in engineering firms may also reach this compensation level, often combined with bonuses and stock options.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level protocol engineers do not earn that level of salary, highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as network security, cloud infrastructure, or senior technical leadership can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. Achieving this typically requires advanced skills, certifications, and many years of experience in high-demand environments.

Do entry-level engineering jobs exist?

Yes, entry-level engineering jobs are widely available across various fields such as software, electrical, and mechanical engineering. These positions typically require minimal professional experience and often involve on-the-job training, internships, or certifications to develop foundational skills.

How to become a protocol engineer?

To become a protocol engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience with networking protocols, programming languages like C or Python, and understanding network architecture is essential. Certifications such as Cisco's CCNA or CCNP can also enhance job prospects in this field.

What is an Entry Level Protocol Engineer?

An Entry Level Protocol Engineer is a professional who assists in designing, implementing, and maintaining communication protocols for computer networks and distributed systems. These protocols are sets of rules that enable devices to communicate efficiently and securely. In this role, engineers collaborate with senior team members to troubleshoot issues, write code, perform testing, and ensure interoperability between systems. The position typically requires knowledge of networking concepts, programming languages, and an understanding of protocol standards. Entry level engineers gain practical experience and foundational skills needed for more advanced engineering roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Protocol Engineer vs Network Technician?

AspectEntry Level Protocol EngineerNetwork Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant certifications (e.g., Cisco CCNA)Associate degree or certifications (e.g., CompTIA Network+)
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and troubleshooting network protocols and systemsInstalling, maintaining, and repairing network hardware and connections
Employer & Industry UsageTelecommunications, IT services, networking companiesCorporate IT departments, internet service providers, telecom firms
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level networking roles involving protocolsMore hardware-focused, but overlaps in troubleshooting skills

While both roles require foundational networking knowledge and certifications, Entry Level Protocol Engineers focus on designing and testing network protocols, whereas Network Technicians primarily handle hardware installation and maintenance. Both roles are essential in networking environments and often share similar entry requirements, making them common points of comparison for those starting their IT careers.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs in Austin, TX? For Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs in Austin, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs in Austin, TX are:
What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs? Cities near Austin, TX with the most Entry Level Protocol Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Protocol Engineer job openings in Austin, TX as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,752 per year, or $33.1 per hour.

Engineer Development Program - Entry Level Power Engineer

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT)

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

At ERCOT, our diverse and dynamic work environment provides a platform on which employees can work together to build the future of the Texas power grid and wholesale market utilizing the latest technologies and resources. We encourage you to join our talented, dedicated workforce to develop world-class solutions for today and tomorrow's energy challenges while learning new skills and growing your career.
ERCOT is committed to fostering inclusion at all levels of our company. It is the cornerstone of our corporate values of accountability, leadership, innovation, trust, and expertise. We know that individuals with a wide variety of talents, ideas, and experiences propel the innovation that drives our success. An inclusive and diverse workforce strengthens us and allows for a collaborative environment to solve the challenges that face our industry today and in the future.
ERCOT's Engineer Development Program (EDP) is a 12-16 month program designed to provide entry-level engineers with the skills necessary to quickly become productive and successful power engineers. During the program, EDP engineers are based in ERCOT's modeling groups, learning the fundamentals of power engineering and the ERCOT grid. The EDP supplements this work with one-on-one mentoring, training sessions, field trips, and special assignments within 15 areas of study - https://www.ercot.com/careers/programs/edp. These assignments allow EDP engineers a chance to become familiar with all of the different types of engineering work that ERCOT has to offer. EDP management helps each EDP engineer, based on their experiences and skills, prepare for a future career path in power engineering.
Monitors the implementation of changes, additions and updates to the ERCOT Transmission Grid and associated network models. Develops, maintains, and supports business software, data formats, associated interfaces and the processes and procedures guiding the use thereof. Completes assignments, gains sufficient knowledge and achieves proficient skill with the concepts, practical methods and operational processes related to phases 1 and 2 of the Engineer Development Program (EDP) curriculum. Works closely with other departments that are responsible for application parameters as well (including but not limited to EMS, MMS, CRR, and Planning).
Essential Job Duties
  • Analyzes transmission network data including Transmission Element parameters. Work closely with ERCOT System Operations, System Operations Support, Market Operating Services Support, Client Services and Metering
  • Works with load flow and other analysis software to provide accurate power system models and associated cases
  • Supports detailed model changes delivered by Network Operations Model Change Requests (NOMCRs) to maintain an accurate Network Operations Model and other models contained within the ERCOT modeling system
  • Validates the database and test the models and associated power flows
  • Maintains and supports database infrastructure, model data exchange interfaces, and data export formats
  • Represents the ERCOT ISO at the ERCOT level
  • Coordinates and works with the NDSWG (Network Data Support Working Group) members on data exchange and transmission network model maintenance via the NOMCR process
  • Reviews and develops methods to increase model accuracy including data comparisons and validity checks
  • Reviews Contingencies, Special Protection Systems, Remedial Action Plans, Mitigation Action Plans, Outages, and other issues that possibly affect models
  • Reviews, drafts, and presents changes to the Protocols, Guides, procedures, and other supporting ERCOT documents relative to modeling.
  • Develops, enhances, and maintains reports associated with Protocol and Guide compliance criteria
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
Job Competencies
  • Functional/Technical Skills
  • Problem Solving/Analysis
  • Planning
  • Decision-making/Judgment
  • Quality
  • Communication (Verbal, Written & Presentation Skills)

Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field or six years applicable experience is required.

Work Experience
  • Less than one year experience (in excess of degree requirements stated above) of progressively responsible experience in electric utility industry.

Earliest Start Date will be spring, summer, and fall 2027.
WORK LOCATION - Taylor, TX:
  • Employees will be required to be on-site in Taylor, TX at minimum 2 days per week, or more, as needed based on the business needs as determined by management
  • On-site schedules are flexible or may be rotated based on business needs as determined by the Manager
  • Remote work is required to be performed from your Texas residence.
  • Employees may opt to work on-site more than required or 100% of the time

The foregoing description reflects the minimum qualifications and the essential functions of the position that must be performed proficiently with or without reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. It is not an exhaustive list of the duties expected to be performed, and management may, at its discretion, revise or require that other or different tasks be performed as assigned. This job description is not intended to create a contract of employment with ERCOT. Both ERCOT and the employee may exercise their employment-at-will rights at any time. #LI-Hybrid, #LI-MH1
ERCOT is firmly committed to equal employment for all qualified persons without regard to race, sex, medical condition, religion, age, creed, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, ancestry, veteran status, genetic information or any other protected category under federal, state or local law.
Are you an ERCOT Employee? If so please log in to Workday to apply.

Apply