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Freelance Relay Protection Engineer Jobs in Tucson, AZ

GAI Consultants

Substation Engineer 3

Tucson, AZ

$93K - $118K/yr

Control and relay panel layouts * Equipment interconnection drawings * Perform necessary ... protection and control systems with substation physical layouts and electrical equipment. * Develop ...

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All JobsRelay Protection Engineer JobsFreelance Relay Protection Engineer JobsFreelance Relay Protection Engineer Jobs in Tucson, AZ

Freelance Relay Protection Engineer information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$14

$45

$125

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

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance relay protection engineer in Tucson, AZ is $45.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.93 and $58.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 popular job titles related to Freelance Relay Protection Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ?

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

What job categories do people searching Freelance Relay Protection Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Relay Protection Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

Freelance Relay Protection Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Relay Protection Engineer job openings in Tucson, AZ as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,820 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

Protective Relay and Automation Engineer I, II, III, and IV

Benson, AZ • On-site

Arizona G&T Cooperatives
51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Arizona G&T Cooperativesexternal

$7.1K - $13K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Join Arizona G&T Cooperatives as a Protective Relay and Automation Engineer and immerse yourself in an exciting opportunity to shape the future of the energy sector. By leveraging innovative technologies, you will play a crucial role in enhancing system reliability and safety, pushing the boundaries of engineering excellence. Collaborate with a team of forward-thinking professionals who are dedicated to solving complex challenges and driving transformative advancements in energy automation. This position offers a unique chance to contribute to cutting-edge projects, impacting both local communities and the industry at large.As part of a company that values integrity and smart solutions, you will find fulfillment in being at the forefront of energy innovation. Apply now to elevate your career while making a difference in the world.PURPOSE: As a Protective Relay and Automation Engineer, your daily responsibilities will involve designing and implementing protective relay schemes for various electrical systems. You will conduct thorough analysis and testing of relay settings and automation protocols to ensure optimal performance. Collaborating closely with interdisciplinary teams, you will troubleshoot and resolve system issues while maintaining a strong focus on safety and compliance standards.Documentation of relay configurations and system modifications will be essential, along with the preparation of reports and recommendations for system improvements. Regular engagement with field personnel will require you to provide technical support, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of our energy operations. Continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies will be expected as you contribute to ongoing projects that drive innovation within the organization.KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Option preferable) from an accredited college or university0-2 years' experience in power system troubleshooting and designEngineer-In-Training Certificate desirableFamiliarity with utility protective relaying application, control scheme design, electrical apparatus testing, relay testing, meter testing and substation automation/integration desirableKnowledge of relaying and substation automation/integration communications desirableKnowledge of ASPEN OneLiner (short circuit/coordination) and ASPEN Relay Database software desirableThorough understanding of word processing, spreadsheets and computer application in general Effective oral and written communication skillsEffective team leadership and participant skillsAny equivalent combination of related education, training, and/or experience can be substituted for requirements listed above.ESSENTIAL AND MARGINAL FUNCTIONS:Perform short circuit and coordination studies within power delivery system, other utilities and member coop systems.Manage short circuit/coordination and relay database software.Manage an in-house relay committee, consisting of members from Operations and Maintenance, to review and approve all relay applications and settings, evaluate new products and review system outages for proper relay operations.Serve as AzG&T representative on regional protective relaying operating and coordinating committees such as SWAT SCWG.Provide project team engineering support by preparing project technical specifications, drawings, programming, procurement and construction documents for substation automation/integration equipment as required.Develop, with the assistance of the Project Services Administrators, cost/benefit analyses and project estimates and costs for substation automation/integration equipment.Provide engineering design and commissioning assistance as required.Assist Planning Engineers with preparing planning studies and fault analyses.Support System Engineer and Field Engineers in analyzing system disturbance faults.Continue the system review effort to improve the reliability of the system to minimize relay miss-operation.Provide engineering support to maintenance craft personnel and System Operations in optimizing the operation of the power delivery system.Provide technical support to substation engineering group regarding relay protection design.Manages changes and evidence related to NERC procedures and controls for delegated requirements.Manages changes and evidence related to NERC RSAWs including the narrative and evidence of the compliance for delegated requirements.Performs primary interviewee functions related to NERC compliance audits for delegated requirements. 
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