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Power System Protection Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

System Protection Engineer

Texas City, TX ยท On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

System Protection Engineer II - IV / Principal Engineer Position Type: Full-Time Benefits ... This role is responsible for ensuring the reliability, safety, and compliance of electric power ...

The System Protection Engineer acts as a technical leader and is responsible for the full scope of ... IEEE Power System Relaying and Control Committee membership is a plus * Proficient with substation ...

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Power System Protection Engineer information

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$56K

$117.7K

$179.5K

How much do power system protection engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for power system protection engineer in the United States is $117,702.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $134,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Power System Protection Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, power systems analysis, and relay coordination, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as ETAP, SEL AcSELerator, and knowledge of IEC and IEEE standards is crucial, along with relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help engineers excel in diagnosing issues and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills are important to ensure reliable and safe operation of electrical grids, prevent outages, and maintain system integrity.

What are the most common challenges faced by Power System Protection Engineers in utility environments?

Power System Protection Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new protection technologies with existing infrastructure, managing the complexity of coordinating protection settings across multiple substations, and ensuring system reliability during maintenance or upgrades. They must also stay current with evolving industry standards and cybersecurity requirements. Collaboration with operations, maintenance, and IT teams is essential to address these challenges and maintain the integrity and safety of the power grid.

What is the difference between Power System Protection Engineer vs Power System Engineer?

AspectPower System Protection EngineerPower System Engineer
CertificationsPE, IEEE, or equivalentPE, IEEE, or equivalent
Work EnvironmentFocus on protection schemes, relay settings, and fault analysisDesign, analyze, and operate power systems broadly
Industry UsageSpecialized in protection systems within utilities and industrial plantsBroader power system design and operation roles

Power System Protection Engineers specialize in designing and maintaining protection schemes to ensure system safety, while Power System Engineers work on overall system design, analysis, and operation. Both roles require similar credentials and often work within the same industry, but their focus areas differ significantly.

What does a Power System Protection Engineer do?

A Power System Protection Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining systems that protect electrical power grids from faults and failures. Their work ensures the safe and reliable operation of electrical networks by detecting abnormal conditions, such as short circuits or overloads, and triggering protective devices like circuit breakers. They also analyze system performance, develop protection schemes, and coordinate with other engineers to minimize service disruptions. This role is crucial for preventing equipment damage, reducing downtime, and ensuring safety for both personnel and the public.
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What cities are hiring for Power System Protection Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Power System Protection Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Power System Protection Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Power System Protection Engineer jobs include:
System Protection Engineer

System Protection Engineer

VIP Staffing

Texas City, TX โ€ข On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

System Protection Engineer II - IV / Principal Engineer

Position Type: Full-Time

Benefits

  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Company-funded retirement contribution
  • Sign-on bonus and/or relocation assistance may be available

Position Summary

We are seeking a System Protection Engineer to perform complex engineering work involving the design, analysis, implementation, and maintenance of power system protection schemes. This role is responsible for ensuring the reliability, safety, and compliance of electric power systems while providing technical leadership and support across engineering and field operations.

Position level (Engineer II, III, IV, or Principal Engineer) will be determined based on the selected candidate's education, experience, and qualifications.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform short circuit, overcurrent, and distance coordination studies using ASPEN OneLiner or similar software.
  • Develop, calculate, and maintain protective relay settings for new and existing electrical systems.
  • Analyze system disturbances and develop corrective action plans to improve system reliability.
  • Support compliance with applicable NERC Protection and Control (PRC) and Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards.
  • Review protection system one-line diagrams, AC/DC schematics, wiring diagrams, and relay design documentation.
  • Ensure engineering work complies with applicable industry standards, regulatory requirements, and company procedures.
  • Provide technical guidance and troubleshooting support to field personnel.
  • Mentor and train junior engineers and technical staff.
  • Participate in engineering peer reviews and quality assurance processes.
  • Communicate technical recommendations and engineering solutions to internal stakeholders and leadership.
  • Contribute to the development and improvement of engineering standards and best practices.
  • Provide technical oversight for contractors and project teams as needed.
  • Maintain a strong commitment to safety while performing all assigned duties.

Qualifications

Required

  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Engineering from an ABET-accredited institution.
  • Experience level determines engineering classification:
    • Engineer II: 2+ years of engineering experience (or 1+ year with an FE certification or Master's degree)
    • Engineer III: 4+ years of engineering experience (or 3+ years with an FE certification or Master's degree)
    • Engineer IV: 5โ€“7 years of engineering experience
    • Principal Engineer: 10+ years of engineering experience (9+ years with a Master's degree); Professional Engineer (PE) license required
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Preferred

  • Power Systems Engineering specialization or advanced degree.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license.
  • Experience using ASPEN OneLiner, CAPE, or similar power system analysis software.

Knowledge & Skills

  • Strong understanding of power system protection principles and relay coordination.
  • Knowledge of transmission, distribution, and generation systems.
  • Familiarity with IEEE, ANSI, NEC, NESC, and other applicable engineering standards.
  • Ability to interpret one-line diagrams, electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
  • Experience applying engineering principles to improve power system reliability.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and decision-making skills.
  • Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
  • Self-motivated with strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
  • Comfortable working around high-voltage electrical equipment up to 345kV.

Computer Skills

  • Proficiency with electrical engineering analysis and design software.
  • Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel.

Work Environment

This position is primarily office-based with periodic field work supporting high-voltage electrical facilities and construction sites. Field work may require walking, climbing, lifting up to 50 pounds, bending, crouching, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when working in the field.

Additional Requirements

Candidates may be required to successfully complete:

  • Criminal background check
  • Identity verification
  • Credit check (where applicable)
  • Cybersecurity training and ongoing compliance requirements, depending on the position

Company Description

VIP Staffing is a regional staffing company specializing in filling temporary, temp-to-hire and permanent placement positions. We command excellence from our employees, provide superior customer service, support generous community involvement all while strengthening our position as a leader and innovator in the staffing industry
Clients of VIP Staffing experience proven results due to the tenure of our corporate staff and the companyโ€™s longevity in the marketplace. We positively impact our customerโ€™s bottom line by analyzing their goals and timelines with an emphasis on productivity.

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About VIP Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

VIP Staffing is an elite service specializing in providing temporary, temp-to-hire and permanent placement positions for employers in Texas and New Mexico. Our tight regional focus and dedicated professional team ensure choice staffing solutions for our customers.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

San Antonio, TX, US

Year founded

1969

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