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Freelance Protection Relay Testing Jobs in Tempe, AZ

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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.

Senior BESS Project Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$98K - $128K/yr

Support construction and commissioning resources in preparing for and executing utility-required acceptance testing, protection relay testing, and interconnection commissioning * Oversee and support ...

Senior BESS Project Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · Remote

$98K - $128K/yr

Support construction and commissioning resources in preparing for and executing utility-required acceptance testing, protection relay testing, and interconnection commissioning * Oversee and support ...

Develop, update, and deliver technical training courses covering apparatus testing (transformers, circuit breakers, switchgear, cables), protection and control systems, and microprocessor-based relay ...

Showing results 21-40

Freelance Protection Relay Testing information

See Tempe, AZ salary details

$14

$45

$126

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 Tempe, AZ is $45.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.27 and $59.18 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.

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Protection Relay Testing jobs in Tempe, AZ?

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

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

What cities near Tempe, AZ are hiring for Freelance Protection Relay Testing jobs?

Cities near Tempe, AZ with the most Freelance Protection Relay Testing job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Protection Relay Testing job openings in Tempe, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 49% In-person, and 51% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,040 per year, or $45.7 per hour.

NETA Technician

Ellaway Blues Consulting

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$50 - $68/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

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Job description

Our client is seeking an experienced NETA Technician to support electrical testing, commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting of low-, medium-, and high-voltage electrical power systems at industrial and commercial facilities throughout the United States. This position is ideal for a hands-on electrical testing professional who enjoys travel and is passionate about ensuring the safety, reliability, and performance of critical electrical infrastructure.

The ideal candidate will have experience performing acceptance and maintenance testing in accordance with NETA ATS/MTS standards, commissioning electrical equipment, troubleshooting protection and control systems, and preparing detailed field reports.

Responsibilities

  • Perform acceptance, maintenance, and commissioning testing of electrical power equipment in accordance with NETA standards.
  • Test and troubleshoot:
    • Protective relays
    • Circuit breakers
    • Transformers
    • Switchgear
    • Motor control centers (MCCs)
    • Bus ducts
    • Cables
    • Grounding systems
    • Batteries and battery chargers
  • Conduct relay functional testing, calibration, and commissioning using industry-standard test equipment.
  • Perform insulation resistance, contact resistance, power factor, current injection, timing, and transformer testing.
  • Verify proper operation of protection and control schemes.
  • Interpret electrical one-line diagrams, schematics, wiring diagrams, and construction drawings.
  • Troubleshoot electrical equipment failures and recommend corrective actions.
  • Prepare detailed field test reports and commissioning documentation.
  • Maintain testing equipment and ensure proper calibration.
  • Communicate findings and recommendations with customers, project managers, and engineering teams.
  • Follow OSHA, NFPA 70E, and company safety procedures while working in energized environments.
  • Travel extensively to customer sites throughout the United States.

Required Qualifications

  • Associate degree or technical certification in Electrical Engineering Technology, Electrical Power, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
  • 3+ years of electrical testing, commissioning, or field service experience.
  • Experience testing electrical distribution equipment from 480V through medium- and high-voltage systems.
  • 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.
  • Valid driver's license with the ability to travel extensively.

Preferred Qualifications

  • NETA Level II, III, or IV Certification (strongly preferred).