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Freelance Protection Relay Testing Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

Telex LLC

Lead Protection and Control Technician

Phoenix, AZ · Remote

$45K - $58K/yr

Perform advanced end‑to‑end relay testing using Doble Protection Suite, Omicron Test Universe, and RTS.Execute functional and scheme testing: reclosing, breaker failure, advanced logic, and ...

TELEX

Lead Protection and Control Technician

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$43K - $56K/yr

Perform advanced endtoend relay testing using Doble Protection Suite, Omicron Test Universe, and RTS. * Execute functional and scheme testing: reclosing, breaker failure, advanced logic, and ...

SRP

Relay Technician (Central Valley)

Tempe, AZ

... Relay Commissioning & Testing * Performs programming, calibration, testing, troubleshooting, and ... Protection Automation and Control Construction * Performs project management, testing, and QA/QC ...

SRP

Relay Technician (West Valley)

Tolleson, AZ

... Relay Commissioning & Testing * Performs programming, calibration, testing, troubleshooting, and ... Protection Automation and Control Construction * Performs project management, testing, and QA/QC ...

SRP

Relay Technician (East Valley)

Mesa, AZ

... Relay Commissioning & Testing * Performs programming, calibration, testing, troubleshooting, and ... Protection Automation and Control Construction * Performs project management, testing, and QA/QC ...

Ellaway Blues Consulting

Be Seen First

NETA Technician

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$50 - $68/hr

Experience with protective relay testing and commissioning. * Ability to read electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and one-line drawings. * Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills.

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Freelance Protection Relay Testing information

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How much do freelance protection relay testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance protection relay testing in Phoenix, AZ is $47.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.09 and $61.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is freelance protection relay testing?

Freelance protection relay testing involves independently assessing and verifying the functionality of protection relays in electrical power systems. These relays are critical for detecting faults and safeguarding equipment by triggering circuit breakers during abnormal conditions. Freelance testers are not tied to a single employer and are often contracted by utilities, industrial plants, or engineering firms to ensure relays are correctly installed, configured, and performing to standards. The role typically requires technical expertise, specialized testing equipment, and knowledge of industry standards such as IEC or IEEE.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance protection relay testing engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Protection Relay Testing Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, in-depth knowledge of protection schemes, and hands-on experience with relay testing, typically supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with specialized relay testing equipment (such as Omicron, Doble, or Megger), report generation software, and industry standards like IEC or IEEE is crucial. Attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and effective communication are standout soft skills for collaborating with clients and resolving complex technical issues. These skills ensure accurate system protection, compliance with safety standards, and client satisfaction in critical power system environments.

What are some common challenges freelance protection relay testers face when working independently, and how can they be addressed?

Freelance protection relay testers often encounter challenges such as coordinating schedules with multiple clients, managing travel to various substations, and ensuring access to up-to-date testing equipment and software. Additionally, staying current with evolving industry standards and maintaining thorough documentation for each project can be demanding without the support of a larger team. Building a strong professional network, investing in ongoing training, and utilizing specialized project management tools can help address these challenges and maintain high-quality service.

What is the difference between Freelance Protection Relay Testing vs Protection Relay Testing?

AspectFreelance Protection Relay TestingProtection Relay Testing
CredentialsTypically requires electrical certifications and relay testing trainingRequires similar certifications, often with additional industry-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentIndependent, on-site or remote testing for various clientsUsually within utility companies, power plants, or industrial facilities
Employer/Industry UsageSelf-employed or subcontractor in electrical power industryEmployed by utilities, power generation, or industrial firms

Freelance Protection Relay Testing involves independent work testing relays for multiple clients, often requiring certifications and flexible work settings. Protection Relay Testing typically refers to in-house or contracted testing within utility or industrial environments, with a focus on maintaining power system reliability.

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For Freelance Protection Relay Testing jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Freelance Protection Relay Testing jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:

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Freelance Protection Relay Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Protection Relay Testing job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,527 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

Sr. Protection & Control Engineer (PE) Power & Utilities

Meade

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$129K - $162K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Meade is a full-service design firm specializing in innovative and cost-effective engineering solutions for data centers, cloud providers, and large-scale construction projects. Our team of expert engineers, designers, and consultants is dedicated to delivering high-quality, reliable, and sustainable solutions that drive the industry forward.

At Meade, we foster a collaborative and dynamic work environment where creativity, technical excellence, and professional growth are at the forefront. We take pride in our commitment to innovation, efficiency, and superior service-values that not only define our projects but also shape our workplace culture.

If you're looking to be part of a company that values expertise, teamwork, and cutting-edge design, we'd love to hear from you!

Job Description:

Meade is seeking a talented Senior Protection & Control (P&C) Engineer to lead and execute medium- to high-voltage (15kV to 500kV) substation protection and control design projects. This is a technical, detail-focused role ideal for engineers who excel in high-paced environments and are experienced in producing code-compliant, constructible P&C design packages with minimal oversight. The ideal candidate will have deep experience in utility and industrial substation design and be skilled at coordinating across multiple engineering disciplines, including SCADA, physical, and civil teams. Occasional support during commissioning and testing phases may be required.

Job Duties:

  • Lead or support detailed Protection & Control designs for greenfield and brownfield substation projects.
  • Develop complete and accurate P&C design deliverables, including one-line and three-line diagrams, AC/DC schematics and wiring diagrams, panel layouts and bill of materials, cable schedules, control logic, and I/O mapping.
  • Specify and apply protection relays (e.g., SEL, GE, ABB) and associated settings.
  • Apply applicable industry and utility standards (IEEE, NESC, and client-specific guidelines).
  • Coordinate closely with SCADA/RTU, communications, physical, and civil design teams.
  • Perform drawing QA/QC and mentor junior P&C designers and engineers.
  • Interface with clients, relay settings engineers, and field teams during design reviews and construction.
  • Provide technical support for relay testing, FAT/SAT, and substation energization as needed.

Qualifications

  • 7+ years of professional experience in substation protection and control design for utilities, EPCs, or engineering firms.
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
  • Valid Electrical Professional Engineer (PE) license.
  • Proficient in developing protection one-lines, AC/DC schematics, and panel wiring diagrams.
  • Familiarity with protection relay applications-especially SEL (351, 451, 735, 487).
  • Proficient with AutoCAD, MicroStation, or similar CAD tools.
  • Strong understanding of control schemes, relay logic, and SCADA integration.
  • Knowledge of industry standards (IEEE, NESC, utility-specific requirements).

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with GIS or metal-clad switchgear.
  • Familiarity with relay setting software (e.g., SEL AcSELerator, GE Enervista).
  • Experience with substation coordination studies and arc flash analysis.
  • Proven ability to coordinate across multi-disciplinary engineering teams.

Compensation & Benefits:

This position is available to candidates residing in the following states: AL, AZ, AR, FL, GA, IN, MI, MO, NV, OH, OK, SC, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV. Compensation and benefits are subject to eligibility requirements and may vary based on location and applicable laws. The pay range for this position will be provided in accordance with applicable state and local laws. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as skills, experience, qualifications, internal equity, geographic location, and business needs.

The estimate pay ranges for this role are as follows:

  • Virginia: $129,000-$162,000
  • Washington: $132,000-$162,000

Eligible employees may participate in Meade-sponsored benefit programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, 401(k), paid time off, paid holidays, and other company-sponsored benefits. Benefit eligibility and offerings are subject to plan terms and applicable policies. 

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Information submitted during the application process will be handled in accordance with applicable privacy laws.

Meade provides equal employment opportunity in all aspects of employment. We do not discriminate against employees or applicants based on race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including childbirth, breastfeeding, lactation, and related medical conditions), age, disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

In compliance with federal law, Meade provides applicants and employees with access to the EEOC Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal poster. CA Residents: SB294 Know Your Right Notice.

All employment is based on qualifications, merit, and business need. If you require a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, please contact our team at recruiting@meadeengineering.com.

Employment with Meade is at-will, meaning either the employee or Meade may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or advance notice, subject to applicable law. The responsibilities listed in this job description are intended to describe the general nature of the role and are not an exhaustive list. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Employment eligibility will be verified as required by law. Employment may be contingent upon the successful completion of background checks, drug testing, and other pre-employment requirements, permitted by applicable law.

Drug-Free Workplace:

Meade maintains a Drug-Free Workplace. Post-offer applicants and employees may be subject to drug and alcohol testing in accordance with applicable law, company policy, client requirements, and job-related safety considerations.

Privacy Policy - Meade

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