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Power Grid Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Power Grid Engineer information

What is the difference between Power Grid Engineer vs Power Systems Engineer?

AspectPower Grid EngineerPower Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, PE license beneficial
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, substations, power plants, grid infrastructureDesign, analysis, simulation, and planning of electrical systems
Industry UsageUtility companies, transmission operators, grid infrastructure firmsConsulting firms, utilities, engineering firms, research institutions

Power Grid Engineers focus on the physical infrastructure, maintenance, and operation of electrical transmission and distribution networks. Power Systems Engineers primarily work on designing, analyzing, and optimizing electrical systems and power flow. While both roles require electrical engineering expertise and similar credentials, their daily tasks and work environments differ, with Power Grid Engineers more involved in fieldwork and infrastructure, and Power Systems Engineers concentrating on system design and analysis.

What does a power grid engineer do?

A power grid engineer designs, maintains, and improves electrical power systems to ensure reliable and efficient delivery of electricity. They analyze grid performance, develop solutions for system upgrades, and use tools like simulation software to optimize network stability and safety. Strong knowledge of electrical engineering principles and industry standards is essential for this role.

Can I make 200K as an electrical engineer?

Power Grid Engineers, a specialized type of electrical engineer, can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-demand regions or senior roles. Salaries vary based on location, industry, and level of responsibility, with senior positions and those in management or specialized fields more likely to reach or exceed this figure.

Can you make $500,000 as an electrical engineer?

Power grid engineers and electrical engineers in specialized roles or with extensive experience can potentially earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in senior positions, consulting, or with advanced certifications. However, such high earnings are uncommon and typically require significant expertise, leadership responsibilities, or working in high-cost regions or industries.

What engineers make $500,000?

Power Grid Engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles in large utility companies can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. High compensation is often associated with senior positions, specialized skills in grid management, and working in regions with high energy demands.
What job categories do people searching Power Grid Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Power Grid Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Power Grid Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Power Grid Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Power Grid Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Power Systems Automation Engineer

$84K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

The devices we make at SEL are embedded in the power grid. They prevent blackouts. They make outages safer and shorter in duration; they add cybersecurity, automation, and communication. They use cutting-edge technologies and operate at speeds that push other pieces of the grid to go faster. As a Power Systems Automation Engineer in Sales & Customer Service you'll provide solutions and services that help our customers protect and control critical electrical infrastructure and power systems worldwide.

As a Power Systems Automation Engineer a typical day might include the following:

  • Helping customers apply SEL products through visits, demonstrations, training courses and telephone contact.
  • Maintaining and improving knowledge of power systems automation solutions and all related SEL products.
  • Provide solutions to a wide variety of increasingly difficult problems and these solutions are imaginative, thorough, and practical.
  • Participate and present at SEL marketing and sales activities, industry technical meetings, and conferences.
  • Teach SEL University courses.
  • Contributing to and reviewing white papers, application guides, industry journals, and technical papers.

This job might be for you ifyou:

  • Have aBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineeringor equivalent.
  • Have 6+ years of experience in power systems automation and communication.
  • Have relevant experience with utility/industrial power systems, focusing on automation, communications, and control, including:
    • SCADA fundamentals and protocols (DNP3, Modbus, SEL, IEC 61850, Ethernet/IP, OPC UA).

    • RTUs, RTACs, IEDs, SEL Relays (3XX-8XX series).

    • PLCs, HMIs.

    • Serial (EIA-232, EIA-485) and Ethernet (TCP/IP, UDP) communications.

    • Firewalls, Security Gateways (SEL-362X).

    • Terminal Servers (SEL-3610), Cellular Routers (SEL-3061 or equivalent), Managed Network Switches, SDN.

    • IEC 61131-3 programming (Structured Text, Continuous Function Chart, Ladder Diagram).

    • Troubleshooting with Wireshark.

  • Desire to learn how the power system transmits and receives information between protective devices and the operational systems.
  • Desire to be involved in the cutting-edge technology of communication technology and protocols.
  • Enjoying solving complex problems and delighting customers.
  • Are astrong communicator with excellent technical training, speaking, writing, and customer service skills.

Location

We are open to this role being located in one of the following locations:

  • Columbus, GA
  • Huntsville, AL
  • Richmond, VA
  • Little Rock, AR

Competitive pay. Superior benefits. Inspiring work.

People are at the core of our company and we hire employee-owners. We welcome you to learn more about how we support employees.

  • We're 100% employee owned. Retirement benefits include an employer funded stock ownership plan (ESOP) and personal 401(k) options.

  • We offer top tier medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.

  • We recognize the importance of a healthy life balance and offer: 10 paid holidays, annual vacation accrual starting at 12 days, 9 paid sick days, and paid family and medical leave that covers 90% of your pay.

  • We foster growth and development of our employees through avenues such as STEM courses, apprenticeships, tuition assistance, and engineering development programs.

  • Ask our team about other benefits including wellness, fertility, adoption, and flexible spending benefits.

Salary Range Data

$84,000 - $160,000 per year. We base our starting pay offer and title on job-related factors such as candidate experience, training, knowledge, and skills.

Communication with Applicants

We communicate with all applicants. If you do not receive a response about your application, please check your SPAMfilteror reach out to us at careers@selinc.com.

SEL is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled.


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