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Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HDR

Substation Designer II

Raleigh, NC

HDR is currently seeking an entry-level Substation Designer to join our growing and nationally ... As an integral part of a team, you will prepare engineering designs on substation projects ranging ...

HDR

Substation Project Engineer

Boise, ID

$93K - $119K/yr

The primary duties of the Substation Project Engineer include physical substation, protection, and control engineering for High Voltage Electric Utility projects, 12 kV through 500 kV. Projects range ...

HDR

Substation Project Engineer

Boise, ID · On-site

$93K - $119K/yr

The primary duties of the Substation Project Engineer include physical substation, protection, and control engineering for High Voltage Electric Utility projects, 12 kV through 500 kV. Projects range ...

HDR

Project Engineer (Substation Design)

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$97K - $123K/yr

The primary duties of the Substation Project Engineer include physical substation, protection, and control engineering for High Voltage Electric Utility projects, 12 kV through 500 kV. Projects range ...

HDR

Substation Project Engineer

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$98K - $124K/yr

HDR Engineering is looking for a Substation Project Engineer to join our growing and nationally ... Understand protection and control design including panel arrangements, one lines/single lines ...

HDR

Project Engineer (Substation Design)

Honolulu, HI

$97K - $123K/yr

The primary duties of the Substation Project Engineer include physical substation, protection, and control engineering for High Voltage Electric Utility projects, 12 kV through 500 kV. Projects range ...

HDR

Substation Project Engineer

Sioux Falls, SD

$98K - $124K/yr

HDR Engineering is looking for a Substation Project Engineer to join our growing and nationally ... Understand protection and control design including panel arrangements, one lines/single lines ...

HDR

Substation Engineer (PE) Power Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$97K - $124K/yr

The primary duties of the Substation Project Engineer include physical substation, protection, and ... Understands protection and control design including panel arrangements, one lines/single lines ...

HDR

Substation Engineer (PE) Power Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$97K - $124K/yr

The primary duties of the Substation Project Engineer include physical substation, protection, and ... Understands protection and control design including panel arrangements, one lines/single lines ...

AECOM

Fire Protection Engineer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$80K - $108K/yr

Provide technical guidance to entry-level staff as needed. * Execute work in accordance with ... protection or related engineering experience, or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or ...

WSP

Substation P&C Designer

Duluth, GA · On-site

... emphasis on substation protection and control (P&C) design (e.g., schematics, wiring ... Prepare multiple versions of designs for review by engineer. * Ensure the specification of ...

WSP

Substation P&C Designer

Duluth, GA

... emphasis on substation protection and control (P&C) design (e.g., schematics, wiring ... Prepare multiple versions of designs for review by engineer. * Ensure the specification of ...

AECOM

Fire Protection Engineer

Columbus, OH · On-site

$80K - $108K/yr

Provide technical guidance to entry-level staff as needed. * Execute work in accordance with ... protection or related engineering experience, or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or ...

AECOM

Fire Protection Engineer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$80K - $108K/yr

Provide technical guidance to entry-level staff as needed. * Execute work in accordance with ... protection or related engineering experience, or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or ...

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All JobsSubstation Protection Engineer JobsEntry Level Substation Protection Engineer Jobs

Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer information

See salary details

$40.5K

$86.4K

$142.5K

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

As of Jul 17, 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 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.
More about Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs
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:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs are:
Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Substation Protection Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,381 per year, or $41.5 per hour.
Substation Designer II

Substation Designer II

HDR

Raleigh, NC

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 369 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.

HDR is currently seeking an entry-level Substation Designer to join our growing and nationally ranked team of Power Delivery professionals.  

Primary Responsibilities
You will be part of a rapidly growing team working on a variety of exciting projects that will test your engineering skills and set you on a path for career growth.  As an integral part of a team, you will prepare engineering designs on substation projects ranging in scale from simple device replacements to large greenfield substation sites. You'll be given the flexibility and freedom to seek and acquire knowledge and experience in both the Protection and Control and Physical aspects of high voltage substation design This is an excellent growth opportunity for a self-directed individual who is eager to learn and take on new challenges. 

Working under the direction of Project Manager(s) and Project Engineer(s) your role will encompass the following:
    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 Designers and CADD Technicians 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.
    Performing site visits during the design, construction and as-built phases of projects

Preferred Qualifications
    EIT certification or ability to pass the FE Exam within 6 months strongly preferred. Candidates hired without an EIT certification will have the title Substation Designer and will be expected to obtain their EIT certification for career progression. 
    Experienced in using AutoCAD 
    Experience using MicroStation
    Prior experience consulting or working for an electric utility
    Strong written and confident verbal communication skills.
    Ability to work in a team environment.
    Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
    Self-motivated and ability to take initiative.

    Local candidates preferred 

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

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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

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