Power System Protection Relay Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Service Field Tech, Sr Service Field Tech - Power Systems Technicians or NETA Technicians are expected to perform service, test and maintain various types of power transmission and distribution equipment. 

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Inspect, test, troubleshoot, perform start-up and collect data of low, medium and/ or high voltage (to 500kV) electrical systems.

• Install, commission, test, and maintain protective relaying equipment, including relay panels, transformers, and circuit breakers.

• Develop and document standardized commissioning, testing, and maintenance procedures for relay systems.

• Perform functional testing of substation control circuits to validate proper relay operation.

• Create relay macros and testing routines to confirm system protection and control configurations.

• Execute end-to-end relay testing with specialized software, identifying relay behavior based on fault conditions.

• Review relay settings and logic equations to ensure alignment with design requirements.

• Low, Medium and/ or High voltage switchgear and circuit breaker testing
• Perform inspection, maintenance, testing and repair of transformers, circuit breakers and all related equipment – 45 KVA to 130 MVA, dry type and/ or oil filled.
• Perform maintenance, testing, reconditioning and repair on circuit breakers – low voltage 480 volt (molded case and air-magnetic) medium voltage up to 15 KV (air-magnetic and vacuum) 
• Experience filling and working with SF6 filled equipment and gas insulated switchgear, desired but not required.
• Test and inspect low and medium voltage cable installations.
• Experience operating high voltage test equipment including Doble Power Factor test sets.
• Perform start-up, troubleshooting and repair services on controls and transfer schemes.
• Rotate emergency on-call duty and if called respond to customer emergencies in a timely manner.
• All work and decisions shall be conducted in strict compliance of all regulatory laws.
• Other duties as assigned by manager.

Required Experience and Qualifications for a Service Field Tech:

• High School diploma/GED and minimum 1 year of experience in a related field. 
• Knowledge of various industry standards such as: NETA, NEC, OSHA and NFPA.
• Prefer experience with most of the following or similar: MCC’s, Breakers, relay testing, oil testing, infrared scanning, performing start-up on switchgear up through 500kV class, etc. or training from the military (Army Prime Power, Air Force Electrical Power Production, NAVY or another related program).
• Must be able to work safely and adhere to all electrical safety procedures.
• Good theoretical understanding of electricity and a good aptitude for problem solving.
• Effectively communicate verbally and in writing with customers and peers.
• Dependable and responsible with good judgment and organizational skills.
• Good customer service, time management and follow-up skills.
• Work effectively with customers, peers and management to resolve client issues.
• Strong computer skills with working knowledge of Windows and Microsoft Office- use of Internet for standards/products/manufacturer research
• For positions that utilize a company vehicle, will be required to have a valid driver’s license.

Required Experience and Qualifications for a Power Systems Tech II:

• High School diploma/GED and minimum 2 years of experience in a related field. 
• NETA Level II Certification.
• Power Systems Tech II performs testing and service work while generally requiring direct supervision. The individual has sufficient knowledge and experience to be qualified for assuring the safety of him/herself. Safety knowledge includes an understanding of lockout/tagout procedures and requirements, arc-flash and shock hazard analyses, and other facets of hazardous electrical energy control procedures.
• Prefer experience with most of the following or similar: MCC’s, Breakers, relay testing, oil testing, infrared scanning, performing start-up on switchgear up through 500kV class, etc. or training from the military (Army Prime Power, Air Force Electrical Power Production, NAVY or another related program).
• Knowledge of various industry standards such as: NETA, NEC, OSHA and NFPA.
• Must be able to work safely and adhere to all electrical safety procedures.
• Good theoretical understanding of electricity and a good aptitude for problem solving.
• Effectively communicate verbally and in writing with customers and peers.
• Dependable and responsible with good judgment and organizational skills.
• Good customer service, time management and follow-up skills.
• Work effectively with customers, peers and management to resolve client issues.
• Strong computer skills with working knowledge of Windows and Microsoft Office- use of Internet for standards/products/manufacturer research
• For positions that utilize a company vehicle, will be required to have a valid driver’s license.

Required Experience and Qualifications for a Power Systems Tech III:

• High School diploma/GED and minimum 5 years of experience in a related field. 
• NETA Level III Certification.
• Power Systems Tech III performs testing and service work and can mentor, lead level I and level II Techs as directed by Supervisor/Manager. This position is responsible for performance and management of routine and moderately complex tasks and projects, record keeping, evaluation of test data, and responsibility for the safety of others. This position is qualified to provide guidance and can perform electrical power switching.
• Prefer experience with most of the following or similar: MCC’s, Breakers, relay testing, oil testing, infrared scanning, performing start-up on switchgear up through 500kV class, etc. or training from the military (Army Prime Power, Air Force Electrical Power Production, NAVY or another related program).
• Knowledge of various industry standards such as: NETA, NEC, OSHA and NFPA.
• Must be able to work safely and adhere to all electrical safety procedures.
• Good theoretical understanding of electricity and a good aptitude for problem solving.
• Effectively communicate verbally and in writing with customers and peers.
• Dependable and responsible with good judgment and organizational skills.
• Good customer service, time management and follow-up skills.
• Work effectively with customers, peers and management to resolve client issues.
• Strong computer skills with working knowledge of Windows and Microsoft Office- use of Internet for standards/products/manufacturer research
• For positions that utilize a company vehicle, will be required to have a valid driver’s license.

Required Experience and Qualifications for a Power Systems Tech IV:

• Associate degree in related field or equivalent experience and minimum 5 years of experience or 10 years of related experience. 
• NETA Level IV Certification.
• Power Systems Tech IV performs testing and service work and can mentor, lead level I and level II and level III Techs as directed by Supervisor/Manager. This position is responsible for performance and management of routine and moderately complex tasks and projects, record keeping, evaluation of test data, and responsibility for the safety of others. This position is qualified to provide guidance and can perform electrical power switching. Position, as directed, supervises large projects and multiple crews and can work independently. Individual performs complex investigations, tests, and evaluations, and prepares written reports as needed.
• Prefer experience with most of the following or similar: MCC’s, Breakers, relay testing, oil testing, infrared scanning, performing start-up on switchgear up through 500kV class, etc. or training from the military (Army Prime Power, Air Force Electrical Power Production, NAVY or another related program).
• Knowledge of various industry standards such as: NETA, NEC, OSHA and NFPA.
• Must be able to work safely and adhere to all electrical safety procedures.
• Good theoretical understanding of electricity and a good aptitude for problem solving.
• Effectively communicate verbally and in writing with customers and peers.
• Dependable and responsible with good judgment and organizational skills.
• Good customer service, time management and follow-up skills.
• Work effectively with customers, peers and management to resolve client issues.
• Strong computer skills with working knowledge of Windows and Microsoft Office- use of Internet for standards/products/manufacturer research
• For positions that utilize a company vehicle, will be required to have a valid driver’s license.

Who we are!

RESA Power is a dynamic, people first organization that prides itself on being the employer of choice in its industry! RESA is fortunate to have an extraordinarily talented group of people who take pride in everything they do! RESA Power has locations throughout the United States & Canada. We are a trusted service provider committed to ensuring the safety, performance, and compliance of electrical distribution systems. With a track record of long-term partnerships and excellence in customer experience for nearly a decade!

Our Mission

Ensure reliable and safe mission-critical power across our customers’ electrical infrastructure lifecycle.

Our Vision

To be the premier, first-choice, trusted provider in the US and Canada for critical power services and products by delivering the best customer and employee experience in the industry.

Core Cultural Competencies

• We do it right
  • We pride ourselves on our integrity and expertise. We don’t cut corners.
  • You perform job responsibilities safely, efficiently, and thoroughly all day, every day.
  • You conduct yourself professionally, ethically, and honestly.
  • You display sound judgment and decision-making skills. You avoid choosing courses of action that assume unreasonable risk to yourself or the Company.
  • You are on time and preplan time off.
  • You produce a quality product.
• We are customer driven
  • Our number one concern is our customer and our long-term relationships with them prove our dedication.
  • You approach job responsibilities with enthusiasm, professionalism, and in a customer focused manner.
  • You promote goodwill by handling all contacts (example: coworkers, management, vendors, customers, etc.) with respect, courtesy, cooperation, attentiveness and follow instructions from management.
• We focus on growth
  • We are dedicated to growing the company and our employees.
  • You understand and apply your knowledge of techniques, policy, procedures, equipment, and skills involved in the job.
  • You seek out new assignments and assume additional duties.
  • You seek to expand your abilities (certifications, continuing ed, OTJ experience, etc.).
• We solve problems
  • Every day is different, so we need to be innovative, decision makers, flexible and adaptable.
  • You efficiently and thoroughly complete assignments.
  • You perform work assignments independently.
  • You propose new ideas and find better ways of doing things.
• We get it done
  • We are efficient, reliable and no nonsense. We work hard, but we also play hard.
  • You follow through on commitments in a timely way.
  • You produce easily understandable and accurate reports that meet customer and/or Company expectations.
  • You actively listen. You seek advice and help as appropriate.
  • You can effectively deliver messages to a variety of individuals (RESA employees, vendors, customers, etc.).
• We build strong relationships
  • Our leaders are servant leaders. We provide you with the support of a well-run company, but the connectedness of a family.  We collaborate with each other and our customers.
  • You collaborate to create the best solutions for each other and our customers.
  • You build strong relationships within the team, across RESA departments and locations and with customers and vendors.

Additional Information: 

Job: Full-Time

Location: Sterling, VA

Travel: up to 50% regional travel within 2-3 hours.

Compensation: $40 to $75 per hour, depending on skillset, certification, and experience, and eligible for overtime.

Relocation: Relocation assistance is available for highly qualified candidates.

Benefits: Full benefits including medical, dental, vision, company paid life insurance, anniversary bonuses, matching 401k, and paid time off. 

Application Details: The position will stay open until filled - seeking one FTE. Apply via job postings on job boards or from the company website. 

Physical Demands: Lifting a maximum of 50lbs on a daily, crawling, climbing, standing for long periods of time, and working in non-ideal conditions.

RESA Power is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality, sex, or veteran status.