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Freelance Relay Protection Engineer Jobs in Springfield, IL

City of Springfield, Illinois

Engineer

Springfield, IL · On-site

$75K/yr

... relay protection, and electric operations. * Support capital improvement projects including project development, design review, construction support, testing, and commissioning. * Assist with system ...

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All JobsRelay Protection Engineer JobsFreelance Relay Protection Engineer JobsFreelance Relay Protection Engineer Jobs in Springfield, IL

Freelance Relay Protection Engineer information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$14

$47

$131

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 Springfield, IL is $47.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $61.25 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.
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Freelance Relay Protection Engineer jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Freelance Relay Protection Engineer job openings:
Freelance Relay Protection Engineer jobs near you

Engineer

City of Springfield, Illinois

Springfield, IL • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

City of Springfield
is seeking applicants for
Engineer
Department: Office of Public Utilities
Division: Subs/Relay/Communication
Work Location:
CWLP MILLER ST
SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, 62701
United States
Work Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Starting Rate: $75,625 annually
Eligibility Requirements: Open to All Applicants
Union: IBEW Local 193
Final Date to Apply: 8/12/2026 at 5:59 PM
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Assist with engineering activities related to transmission and distribution systems, substations, relay protection, and electric operations.
  • Support capital improvement projects including project development, design review, construction support, testing, and commissioning.
  • Assist with system planning, reliability analysis, outage investigations, and infrastructure improvement initiatives.
  • Review engineering studies, technical reports, drawings, specifications, and equipment recommendations.
  • Coordinate with utility personnel, contractors, consultants, and equipment vendors.
  • Support compliance activities and the development of engineering standards and technical procedures.

Required Qualifications:The ideal candidate will possess knowledge, skills,and abilities typically acquired through the completion of a four-year degreein Electrical Engineering, with a preference for a power option, from anaccredited college or university, along with at least seven years ofprofessional engineering experience. An equivalent combination of education andrelevant experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, andabilities will also be considered.
Preference for employment in all positions with the city shall be given to applicants who are full-time city residents.
To be eligible to apply, current City employees must have completed their probationary period and attained certified status in their current position.
Benefits:
  • Health, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
  • Free Health Clinic
  • Pension Plan
  • Deferred Compensation
  • 4 weeks paid parental leave
  • Up to 14 paid holidays, based off calendar year
  • 10-25 paid vacation days, based on years of service
  • 12 paid sick days annually
  • Tuition Reimbursement

If assistance in applying is required, please notify the Office of Human Resources at 217-789-2446 or humanresources@springfield.il.us

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