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Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer Jobs in California

Substation Coordinator/EIT

Irvine, CA · On-site

$105K - $134K/yr

Preparation of engineering drawings, calculations, analyses, reports and designs for electrical ... Developing design deliverables including one-line diagrams, protection and control schematics ...

Substation Coordinator/EIT

Irvine, CA · On-site

$105K - $134K/yr

Preparation of engineering drawings, calculations, analyses, reports and designs for electrical ... Developing design deliverables including one-line diagrams, protection and control schematics ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer information

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 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 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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substation Protection Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Substation Protection Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs in California?

For Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer job openings:

Substation Coordinator/EIT

HDR

Irvine, CA • On-site

$105K - $134K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


HDR rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 450 rated engineering


Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story'
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.
We believe electricity powers modern life. As part of our Power sector, you'll help shape how electricity is generated, transmitted and delivered as global energy demands grow. From massive data centers to modernizing transmission systems, our industry-recognized engineers and scientists have been at the forefront of grid transformation for more than a century. You'll work side-by-side with these experts and contribute to reliable, resilient and sustainable power systems, helping communities thrive and industries expand. This isn't just a job, it's a chance to drive infrastructure forward, power innovation and leave your mark on our energy future.
In the role of Substation Coordinator/EIT, we'll count on you to:
  • Preparation of engineering drawings, calculations, analyses, reports and designs for electrical substations (Low, Medium and High Voltage).
  • Preparation of calculations, design sketches and redline drawings.
  • Working with Electrical CAD Drafters and Designers to develop drawings in accordance with national design standards, safety codes and project specifications and requirements.
  • Developing design deliverables including one-line diagrams, protection and control schematics, wiring diagrams, SCADA schemes, communications plans, substation physical layouts, material lists, conduit and cable sizing/routing, AC and DC systems calculations and sizing, and substation grounding.
  • Review work of Electrical CAD Drafters and Designers and coordinate design of assigned projects with other engineering disciplines as needed.
  • Perform assignments exercising judgment in evaluation, selection and modification of electrical engineering techniques and procedures.
  • Make decisions on significant design and engineering features as needed.
  • Perform other duties as needed.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) certificate
  • Candidates without their EIT will be placed into a Design Coordinator job code and will be expected to obtain their EIT for career progression
  • Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with Power emphasis.
  • Previous experience with an architectural/engineering or engineering consulting firm.
  • 2+ years experience designing electrical lighting, power and systems for power utility projects.
  • Experience and/or interest in sustainable design/LEED desired but not required.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering
  • Computer skills in Microsoft Office
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

What HDR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917