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Freelance Relay Protection Engineer Jobs in Virginia

EPS

Relay Technician I

Richmond, VA · On-site

... protection theory, practical testing applications, and electrical schematics under the supervision of Senior Relay Technicians and Engineers. The role includes exposure to building test plans ...

EPS

Relay Technician I

Richmond, VA · On-site

... protection theory, practical testing applications, and electrical schematics under the supervision of Senior Relay Technicians and Engineers. The role includes exposure to building test plans ...

EPS

Relay Technician II

Richmond, VA

The technician will continue developing expertise in relay protection schemes, system analysis, and advanced testing practices while working closely with Senior Relay Technicians and Engineers.

EPS

Relay Technician II

Norfolk, VA · On-site

The technician will continue developing expertise in relay protection schemes, system analysis, and advanced testing practices while working closely with Senior Relay Technicians and Engineers.

EPS

Relay Technician II

Salem, VA · On-site

The technician will continue developing expertise in relay protection schemes, system analysis, and advanced testing practices while working closely with Senior Relay Technicians and Engineers.

EPS

Relay Technician II

Norfolk, VA

The technician will continue developing expertise in relay protection schemes, system analysis, and advanced testing practices while working closely with Senior Relay Technicians and Engineers.

EPS

Relay Technician II

Richmond, VA · On-site

The technician will continue developing expertise in relay protection schemes, system analysis, and advanced testing practices while working closely with Senior Relay Technicians and Engineers.

EPS

Relay Technician II

Salem, VA

The technician will continue developing expertise in relay protection schemes, system analysis, and advanced testing practices while working closely with Senior Relay Technicians and Engineers.

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Freelance Relay Protection Engineer information

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance relay protection engineer?

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.

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 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 most commonly searched types of Relay Protection Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Relay Protection Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Relay Protection Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For Freelance Relay Protection Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Relay Protection Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Relay Protection Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Freelance Relay Protection Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Freelance Relay Protection Engineer job openings:

Freelance Relay Protection Engineer jobs near you

Relay Technician I

EPS

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Overview
Job Title: Relay Technician I
About The Company:
Electric Power Systems (EPS) is a NETA-accredited independent electrical testing and engineering organization specializing in electrical acceptance testing, commissioning, and maintenance for clients across Data Centers, Utility, Generation, Renewables, Transit, Industrial and Commercial Facilities throughout North America. We are committed to safety, technical expertise, and setting the standard of excellence in the power industry.
Benefits:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Savings Plan with Company Match
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) and a Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Perks:
  • Competitive Pay
  • Talent Development - Instructor-Led Technical Courses and Online Learning
  • Career Path Planning
  • Incentives for Professional Certifications
  • Competitive Per Diem for Travel
  • Referral Bonuses
  • Tuition Reimbursement

Position Overview:
The Relay Technician I is an entry-level role responsible for assisting in the installation, testing, and maintenance of protective relay and control systems in substations and industrial (C&I) environments. This position focuses on developing foundational knowledge of relay protection theory, practical testing applications, and electrical schematics under the supervision of Senior Relay Technicians and Engineers. The role includes exposure to building test plans, executing entry-level testing, and supporting system verification activities.
Responsibilities
  • Implement safety policies and follow all company safety procedures, including proper use of PPE in energized environments.
  • Participate in safety meetings, job briefings, and hazard identification activities.
  • Support a safety-first culture by reporting hazards and following established procedures.
  • Assist with installation, wiring, and commissioning of protection and control systems on relay panels, transformers, and circuit breakers.
  • Perform entry-level testing under supervision from Senior Relay Technicians and Engineers.
  • Assist in building and executing basic relay test plans based on engineering guidance.
  • Support functional and supporting function testing activities alongside senior staff.
  • Develop understanding and practical application of relay protection theory, including:
    • Overcurrent, transformer, bus differential, and distance relays
    • Different operating schemes used in protection systems
    • Logic gates and Boolean algebra as applied to relay logic
    • Polarity, phasing, and vector relationships in power systems
  • Read and interpret one-line, three-line, and AC/DC schematics and drawings.
  • Assist in reviewing protection and control drawings to understand system design and functionality.
  • Assist in troubleshooting relay and control system issues using schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals.
  • Accurately document testing activities and maintain detailed reports of work performed.
  • Work closely with Relay Technicians II/III and engineers to develop technical skills and industry knowledge.
  • Maintain tools, test equipment, and work areas in a safe and organized condition.

Qualifications
Required Skills/Abilities:
  • Able to pass a pre-employment drug screen due to this being a safety sensitive position.
  • Complete a satisfactory criminal background check.
  • Able to work overtime and travel out of town for periods of time.
  • Must have a valid driver's license and currently have and be able to maintain a good driving record.
  • Hands on experience installing, maintaining, testing & repairing protective relays in transmission, generation or distribution level substations.
  • Capable of troubleshooting distribution and transmission controls circuits.
  • Knowledge of relay test software.

Preferred Skills/Abilities:
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience installing, maintaining, testing, or repairing circuit breakers, transformers, switchgear, or similar equipment.

Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's or associate degree in electrical/Electronic technology, or Military experience preferred
  • NETA certified a plus

Physical Requirements:
  • Able to climb ladders, stand for extended periods, able to lift 70 lbs.

EPS is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration for employment to all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, disability, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity and sexual orientation), political affiliation, military service, national origin, age or any other characteristics protected by state or federal laws.
EPS does not work with individual recruiters or third party recruiting agencies, and will not recognize claim to any unsolicited resumes or candidate information.
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