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Freelance Relay Protection Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

Protection Engineer

Mountain View, CA

$200K - $245K/yr

From arc flash studies to protective relay programming and calibration , your work will help safeguard one of the world's most advanced research facilities. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS : * PE ...

Astrion

Protection Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$200K - $245K/yr

From arc flash studies to protective relay programming and calibration , your work will help safeguard one of the world's most advanced research facilities. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS : * PE ...

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Freelance Relay Protection Engineer information

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$14

$47

$132

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

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance relay protection engineer in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Freelance Relay Protection Engineers when working with multiple clients or utilities?

Freelance Relay Protection Engineers often work with diverse clients, each with unique equipment, standards, and expectations. One common challenge is quickly adapting to different protection schemes and relay technologies used by various utilities or industrial facilities. Additionally, freelancers must efficiently manage their time and communication across multiple projects to meet deadlines and maintain quality. Building strong relationships and staying updated on industry standards are essential for overcoming these hurdles and ensuring client satisfaction.

What does a Freelance Relay Protection Engineer do?

A Freelance Relay Protection Engineer is a specialist who designs, tests, and maintains systems that protect electrical power systems from faults by ensuring relays and protection schemes operate correctly. They work independently or on a contract basis for utilities, industrial clients, or engineering firms, often performing studies, field testing, and commissioning of protective relays and associated equipment. Their responsibilities often include analyzing system data, troubleshooting protection issues, and helping to ensure the safety and reliability of electrical grids.

What is the difference between Freelance Relay Protection Engineer vs Substation Protection Engineer?

AspectFreelance Relay Protection EngineerSubstation Protection Engineer
CredentialsRelevant certifications in relay protection, electrical engineeringSimilar certifications, often with additional substation-specific training
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based, often remote or on-site at various locationsTypically on-site at substations, working within utility or power companies
Employer & IndustryFreelance/contract basis, consulting firms, power utilitiesPower utilities, electrical engineering firms, substation operators

Freelance Relay Protection Engineers and Substation Protection Engineers share similar technical skills and certifications. However, freelance engineers work independently on various projects, often remotely, while substation protection engineers are employed directly by utilities or companies working on-site at substations. Both roles focus on relay protection systems but differ mainly in employment type and work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Relay Protection Engineer, and why are they important?

A Freelance Relay Protection Engineer requires strong knowledge of power system protection principles, relay coordination, and a relevant electrical engineering degree. Expertise in industry-standard software (like ETAP, SEL acSELerator, or PSCAD), as well as familiarity with protective relay hardware and applicable standards (such as IEEE or IEC), is typically necessary. Excellent problem-solving, analytical thinking, and communication skills help in managing projects independently and collaborating with clients or utilities. These competencies ensure accurate system protection, reliable project delivery, and compliance with critical safety and operational standards.
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Freelance Relay Protection Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Relay Protection Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Transmission and Substation Relay Protection Engineer

Chipton-Ross

Topeka, KS • On-site

$50 - $84/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Transmission and Substation Relay Protection Engineer

Ready to put your protection and control expertise to work on meaningful grid projects? This opportunity supports Evergy in Topeka, KS through Chipton‑Ross on an 18‑month renewable contract with potential to convert to direct hire.

Is this you?
  • Do you have hands-on utility experience with substation, generation, and transmission equipment controls and fault protection?
  • Can you interpret schematic, wiring, and logic diagrams with ease?
  • Are you comfortable creating elementary drawings and relay settings that align with standard protection philosophies?
  • Do you thrive juggling multiple priorities in a high‑pressure setting while keeping details razor‑sharp?
What you’ll tackle
  • Absorb and apply the company’s protection and control design philosophy.
  • Review and redline typical substation protection and transmission line P&C drawings.
  • Assess detailed system protection and control bills of material.
  • Produce relay logic and protection settings to match design intent.
  • Partner with cross‑functional teams; communicate clearly and professionally.
Your background
  • Knowledge of relays and associated protection schemes across generation, transmission, and distribution.
  • Dependable, self‑driven, highly organized; excellent proofreading skills.
  • Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheets, and databases preferred.
Role basics
  • Location: Topeka, KS
  • Term: 18‑month renewable; potential Direct Hire
  • Schedule: Full‑Time, 1st Shift
  • Compensation: Hourly Pay Rate is up to $84.00
Education

Accredited Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering.

Eligibility

US Citizenship is Required

Connect with us

Robert Davis, Chipton‑Ross
Sr. Recruiting Manager | Sr. Account Manager
Phone: 310-414-7800 x305 | Fax: 310-414-7808
Email: rdavis@chiptonross.com

Learn more: chiptonross.com | Robert’s LinkedIn | Company LinkedIn
Ask me about referral bonuses.

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About Chipton-Ross

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Chipton-Ross, based in El Segundo, California, is a leading provider of staffing and recruitment services in the US. The company is renowned for its specialization in fields like engineering, information technology, aircraft manufacturing, and other technical industries. Founded in 1983, Chipton-Ross has grown to become a recognized name in the national recruitment arena with a reputation for integrity, quality, and excellence in management. The company's mission is to provide cost-effective staffing solutions that allow their clients to maximize the power of their people, enhancing both perspective and productivity.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

El Segundo, CA, US

Year founded

1983

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