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Grid Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Principal Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$52 - $66.50/hr

Our solutions and operational services are helping to create a more resilient grid and unlock the ... Serve as the Principal controls SW developer designing Fluence's energy storage system control SW ...

Senior Power Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$107K - $146K/yr

You will drive modeling excellence in industry-standard tools to support grid integration studies ... D. in Power Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. • 3-5 years of ...

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Grid Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$38.7K

$100.9K

$136.3K

How much do grid engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for grid engineer in Virginia is $100,879.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,300.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Grid Engineer?

A Grid Engineer is a professional who designs, operates, and maintains electrical grid systems that deliver electricity from power plants to consumers. They ensure the grid runs efficiently, safely, and reliably by overseeing infrastructure such as substations, transmission lines, and distribution networks. Grid Engineers play a crucial role in integrating renewable energy sources, managing grid stability, and addressing outages or emergencies. Their work often involves using advanced technology and data analysis to optimize grid performance.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These roles typically require advanced degrees, certifications, and leadership responsibilities within high-demand industries.

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

To thrive as a Grid Engineer, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, power systems, and grid operations, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with grid modeling software (such as PSS/E or PowerWorld), SCADA systems, and relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and communication skills help Grid Engineers manage complex projects and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These competencies are essential to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation and modernization of electrical grids.

What do grid engineers do?

Grid engineers design, maintain, and optimize electrical power transmission and distribution systems to ensure reliable energy delivery. They analyze system performance, troubleshoot issues, and may use tools like SCADA and GIS software, often requiring technical certifications and knowledge of safety standards.

What is the difference between Grid Engineer vs Substation Engineer?

AspectGrid EngineerSubstation Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, relevant certificationsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentPower grid infrastructure, field and officeSubstation facilities, field and office
Industry UsagePower transmission and distribution companiesUtility companies, power plants
Primary FocusDesign, maintenance, and optimization of power gridsDesign, construction, and maintenance of substations

While both roles involve electrical engineering within the power industry, Grid Engineers focus on the overall power transmission network, ensuring efficient and reliable grid operation. Substation Engineers specialize in the design and maintenance of substations, which are critical nodes within the grid. Both roles require similar credentials and often work together to ensure a stable power supply.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Executive-level engineering roles or those with significant managerial responsibilities may also reach or exceed this salary level.

How does a Grid Engineer typically collaborate with other departments to ensure reliable power distribution?

Grid Engineers work closely with operations, maintenance, and planning teams to monitor grid performance and quickly address any faults or outages. They often coordinate with IT specialists to implement and maintain grid automation systems, and may also interact with regulatory and compliance departments to ensure all standards are met. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as Grid Engineers must translate technical data into actionable steps for various stakeholders, ensuring safe and efficient power delivery.

How much do grid engineers make?

Grid engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in power systems or automation can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually.
What are the most commonly searched types of Grid Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Grid Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Grid Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Grid Engineer job openings:
Substation Protection & Control Engineer - REMOTE

Substation Protection & Control Engineer - REMOTE

ICF

Reston, VA • Remote

$102K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Title: Substation Protection & Control Engineer (Remote)

Location: Remote US

Ready to make a difference?

ICF is seeking a Substation Protection & Control Engineer, to work on the design of relay and protection and control projects on distribution substations at voltages from 12kV to 69kV with the goal of providing excellent quality work for our clients.

We are a relentlessly client-focused group who are re-imagining, re-designing, and re-engineering the way electric utilities tackle industry problems. We are looking for passionate and innovative people who are constantly looking for ways to provide better quality engineering services for our clients.

Why you will love working here:

  • Quality of life: Fully remote, flexible schedule, work-life balance

  • Investment in the community: Donation matching, volunteer opportunities

  • Investment in you: Tuition reimbursement, access to professional development resources, 401k matching, Employee Stock Purchase Plan

  • And many, many more (Ask your recruiter for more details!)

The Ideal Candidate

You are a highly motivated engineer who takes pride in the services you provide. You ensure the project is done right and all deadlines are met. You should be proactive, self-sufficient, and able to productively work out of your home without supervision. You always strive to expand your knowledge and improve work processes to increase quality and efficiency. You are an active member of the team that works well with others and prioritizes the goals of the group. You enjoy taking on new responsibilities and learning new skill sets whenever needed.

What you will be doing:

  • Responsibilities include, but are not limited, to the design and preparation of the following Protection and Control Drawings:

    • Protective Schemes

    • Substation Relay One Lines and Three Lines

    • AC/DC Schematics

    • Substation Panel Layouts

    • Substation Wiring Diagram and Cable Schedule

    • SCADA and Communication Diagrams

  • DC Systems Calculations

  • AC Systems Calculations

  • Development of Equipment Specification and Selection based on Clients Criteria

  • Development of Bill of Materials based on Design Criteria

  • Coordination with physical, settings, and drafting disciplines to ensure quality deliverables

  • Participate in client meetings and perform site visits for data gathering as required

  • Interpreting and incorporating vendor information into design deliverables

  • Apply client standards related to the work

  • Providing field support during construction

  • Perform/ensure company's Quality assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) processes are being followed on all design packages

  • Continuous improvement of job-related engineering, technical and professional knowledge, skills, and performance

What we need you to have (minimum qualifications):

  • BS in Engineering, preferably electrical or computer engineering

  • 2+ years of protection and controls experience

What we would like you to have:

  • 2+ years of experience working with Bluebeam, AutoCAD, and MicroStation

  • Engineering in Training license (EIT)

  • Professional Engineer License (PE)

  • Advanced user of Microsoft products, specifically Excel, and Word

  • Knowledge of the practical application of industry standards such as: NEC, NESC, IEEE and ANSI

  • Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principals involved in production of technical plans, blueprints and drawings

To learn more about this team and how our grid engineering solutions help electric utilities balance cutting-edge technology with cost-efficiency and reliability> ICF Power Delivery Services

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#INDEED

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#POWERDELIVERY

Working at ICF

ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we're not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.

We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer.Together, our employees are empowered to share theirexpertiseand collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read ourEEOpolicy.

We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals withsincerely heldreligious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To requestan accommodation,please emailCandidateaccommodation@icf.comand we will be happy toassist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extentrequiredto provide needed reasonable accommodations.

Read more aboutworkplacediscriminationrightsor our benefit offerings which are included in theTransparency in (Benefits) CoverageAct.

Candidate AI Usage Policy

At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate orassistwith responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is notpermitted. This policy is in place tomaintainthe integrity and authenticity of the interview process.

However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodationthat involves the use of AI. Ifsuch anaccommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance atcandidateaccommodation@icf.com. Weare dedicated to providingthe necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.


Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:

$81,499.00 - $167,644.00Nationwide Remote Office (US99)