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Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$41.7K

$89K

$146.8K

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level substation protection engineer in Chicago, IL is $88,985.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $106,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Substation Protection Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Substation Protection Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,985 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Substation Physical Designer 1 - Grid

Sargent & Lundy

Chicago, IL • On-site

$58K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

120th of 446 rated engineering

Job description

Description
This position offers the flexibility of a hybrid schedule working some days in the office and some days from home.
As a Substation Physical Designer, you will be working in a project team environment with engineers and other designers involved in high and extra high voltage substation design. Responsibilities will include the preparation of the following substation drawings:
  • Substation General Arrangement
  • Substation Electrical Equipment Plans
  • Substation Section Views (Elevations)
  • Substation Detailed Bill of Material
  • Substation Lightning Stroke Shielding Plan
  • Substation Grounding Plan
  • Substation Conduit, Electrical Connection and Grounding Details
  • Substation Below Grade Conduit/Raceway Plan
  • Control Building Equipment, Cable Tray, Lighting, Grounding Plans and Section

Other responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Interpreting and incorporating vendor information into design deliverables.
  • Performing walkdowns at client facilities.
  • Applying Client's standards related to the work.

Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Education/Experience Requirements:
  • A minimum of 3 years of substation physical design experience.
  • An Associate's Degree in Drafting, or a high school diploma and 2 or more years drafting course work or equivalent technical experience.
  • Proficient with AutoCAD and MicroStation.
  • Ability to visualize parts in 3D without the aid of the computer.

Valued Knowledge/Skills:
  • An Associate's Degree in Computer Aided Design.
  • Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
  • Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology, including the ability to relate various equipment to a technical design.

Award-Winning Benefits
At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

Compensation Range
$58,925 - $84,728
Transparency Statement
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.
Equal Opportunity
Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

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About Sargent & Lundy

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Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

Social media

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