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Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chipton-Ross

Substation Design Engineer

Topeka, KS · On-site

$50 - $84/hr

Design Engineer ** The preferred candidate will have utility experience directly related to electric substation, generation, and transmission line equipment control and fault protection systems.

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Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer information

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$40.5K

$86.4K

$142.5K

How much do entry level substation protection engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level substation protection engineer in the United States is $86,381.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $103,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, knowledge of power systems, and a relevant degree such as a BSEE. Familiarity with industry tools like AutoCAD, relay coordination software (such as SEL or GE relays), and understanding of NERC reliability standards is highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in technical problem-solving and team collaboration. These competencies ensure reliable substation operation, accurate protection system design, and adherence to industry safety and compliance standards.

What are some typical projects or tasks an Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer might work on during their first year?

As an Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer, you can expect to assist in designing and reviewing protection and control schematics, performing relay settings calculations, and supporting the commissioning of substation equipment. You’ll likely collaborate closely with senior engineers, project managers, and field technicians, gaining hands-on experience with protective relays, communication protocols, and system studies. Over your first year, you’ll become familiar with industry standards and utility requirements, develop troubleshooting skills, and contribute to ensuring reliable and safe operation of power systems.

What does an Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer do?

An Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer assists in designing, implementing, and maintaining protective systems for electrical substations. Their primary role is to ensure the safe and reliable operation of power grids by analyzing system data, preparing technical drawings, and supporting senior engineers in developing protection schemes. They also help with troubleshooting equipment issues, conducting field inspections, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and safety regulations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer vs Substation Technician?

AspectEntry Level Substation Protection EngineerSubstation Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in electrical engineering; some certifications preferredHigh school diploma or technical training; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, and testing of protection systems in office and fieldField work, maintenance, and troubleshooting at substations
Employer & Industry UsageUtilities, engineering firms, power generation companiesUtility companies, contractors, maintenance providers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in substation protectionLearning about substation maintenance and technical roles

The Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer focuses on designing and analyzing protection systems, requiring an engineering degree, while a Substation Technician handles maintenance and troubleshooting in the field. Both roles are essential in the power industry but differ in responsibilities, credentials, and work environment.

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What cities are hiring for Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Substation Protection Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Substation Protection Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs include:
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Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,381 per year, or $41.5 per hour.
Entry Level Electrical Engineer - Engineering Associate I

Entry Level Electrical Engineer - Engineering Associate I

Mesa Associates Inc.

Chattanooga, TN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

PDS 8 / Power Delivery Substation

This position is not eligible for recruiting or sourcing by outside parties.

Mesa seeks an entry-level Substation Protection & Control (P&C) Engineer that is looking to start their career in the electric power industry. This position is for our Power Delivery Substation group which supports various clients across the United States.

What We’re Looking for

  • Recent graduate with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering (ABET Accredited).
  • Fast learner – You can pick up new concepts, standards, and software quickly.
  • Self-starter – You’ll get direction from senior engineers, but you’re comfortable hunting down answers on your own when the path isn’t obvious.
  • Solid understanding of fundamentals – Ohm’s law, single-phase systems, three-phase power systems, and digital logic.
  • Clear communicator – You feel comfortable reaching out to others with questions and can communicate professionally face-to-face, on the phone, and over email.
  • Desire to pursue Professional Engineering licensure.

What You’ll Learn

  • Substation Protection & Controls concepts – How power system protection equipment (CTs, VTs, Relays, etc.) is connected and used within substations.
  • Design Software – AutoCAD/MicroStation, Bluebeam Revu, Microsoft Excel, etc.
  • Project lifecycle – How a project moves from conception, through design, to completion.
  • Cross-disciplinary collaboration – Working alongside senior engineers, designers, project managers, and client personnel.

What You’ll Do

  • Work on a team of drafters, designers, and engineers
  • Increase your knowledge under the mentorship of senior engineers
  • Create single-line & three-line diagrams
  • Develop panel layouts and control house layouts
  • Produce AC & DC schematics
  • Design wiring diagrams
  • Compile Bill-of-Materials and cable schedules
  • Coordinate with other engineering disciplines
  • Attend site visits to see implementation of designs
  • Perform peer-review of designs
  • Progress to independent project ownership

What You’ll Earn

  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Pay – 10 Days Annually
  • Group Medical/Dental Insurance
  • Life Insurance (Company Paid)
  • Disability Insurance (Company Paid)
  • 401(K) Retirement Savings plan
  • 401(K) Matching Contribution
  • Section 125/Cafeteria Plan
  • Long Term Care Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Fitness Center Reimbursement
  • Annual Performance Bonus
  • 9/80 Work Schedule Option

Notice to External Search Firms: Mesa Associates, Inc. and its subsidiaries do not accept unsolicited resumes and will not be obligated to pay a placement fee for unsolicited resumes. Mesa Associates, Inc. Talent Acquisition engages with approved search firms directly for specific hiring needs.

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