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Power System Protection Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BWL

System Protection Technician

Lansing, MI · On-site

$60.15/hr

Maintains the power system to assure the maximum continuity of electrical service. Support all ... Must be journey System Protection Technician as indicated by the completion of a 5-year ...

BWL

System Protection Technician

Lansing, MI

$60.15/hr

Maintains the power system to assure the maximum continuity of electrical service. Support all ... Must be journey System Protection Technician as indicated by the completion of a 5-year ...

Lancesoft

System Protection Technician

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$30.23 - $33.75/hr

This position involves assisting seasoned technicians while expanding upon skills and competencies ... This position builds on foundational knowledge, allowing individuals to perform System Protection ...

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Power System Protection Technician information

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How much do power system protection technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for power system protection technician in the United States is $27.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $31.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Power System Protection Technician, you need a solid background in electrical engineering or technology, typically supported by an associate degree or technical diploma and relevant experience. Familiarity with protective relay testing equipment, SCADA systems, and industry certifications like NETA or IEC 61850 is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficient operation of electrical power systems.

What is the difference between Power System Protection Technician vs Power Distribution Technician?

AspectPower System Protection TechnicianPower Distribution Technician
CertificationsElectrical certifications, relay technician licensesElectrical licenses, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentSubstations, control centers, high-voltage systemsDistribution lines, transformers, residential/commercial areas
Industry UsagePower utilities, transmission companiesUtility companies, construction firms
Job FocusProtecting electrical systems, troubleshooting relaysInstalling, maintaining distribution infrastructure

The Power System Protection Technician primarily focuses on safeguarding electrical systems and troubleshooting relays within substations and high-voltage environments. In contrast, the Power Distribution Technician handles the installation and maintenance of distribution lines and transformers in residential and commercial areas. Both roles require electrical certifications and are vital in the power industry, but they differ in scope and work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Power System Protection Technicians in the field?

Power System Protection Technicians often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex relay systems, working in high-voltage environments, and responding quickly to power outages or faults. The role requires strong attention to detail and the ability to interpret technical diagrams under pressure. Additionally, technicians must stay updated with evolving protection technologies and standards, making ongoing training and adaptability essential for success.

What does a Power System Protection Technician do?

A Power System Protection Technician is responsible for installing, maintaining, testing, and repairing the protection systems that safeguard electrical power systems from faults and abnormal conditions. These technicians work with relays, circuit breakers, and other protective devices to ensure the safety and reliability of power distribution. Their role is crucial in preventing damage to equipment, minimizing outages, and maintaining the stability of the electrical grid.
More about Power System Protection Technician jobs
What job categories do people searching Power System Protection Technician jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Power System Protection Technician jobs are:
Power System Protection Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power System Protection Technician job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,186 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

System Protection Technician

BWL

Lansing, MI • On-site

$60.15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Thank you for your interest in the BWL. We think you'll find it a rewarding and nurturing place to grow your career.
Starting Salary Range: $60.15 - $60.15
GENERAL SUMMARY OF DUTIES:
Inspects, tests, repairs, and maintains electrical and electronic equipment within the system, such as circuit breakers, transformers, and in-service relays, to prevent and remedy abnormal behavior of transmission and distribution lines and equipment. Maintains the power system to assure the maximum continuity of electrical service. Support all Production and Generation Facilities.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Maintains, repairs, tests, troubleshoots and calibrates equipment.
  • Locates primary and secondary underground URD faults.
  • Initiates, organizes and completes job assignments.
  • Utilizes mainframe databases, standard software programs, and numerous vendor software programs to complete work assignments.
  • Creates, reviews, updates and interprets drawings, sketches and other applicable documentation.
  • Provides technical support to various departments and their projects, including Electrical Eng., Planning, and Operations.
  • Updates skills by attending applicable trainings and seminars.
  • Prepares and maintains applicable reports and records (e.g. equipment, tests, specifications). Reads and troubleshoots circuit drawings with complete understanding of theory of transmission, distribution, generation and excitation control and protection.
  • Installs new equipment such as relays, timers, switches and indicators.
  • Participates in 24/7 on-call rotation schedule.
  • Required to follow BWL Safety Manual and wear required personal protective equipment.
  • Must attend all training for safety awareness or skills improvement as required by supervisor, BWL or governmental agency such as MIOSHA.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS: KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES
  • Must be journey System Protection Technician as indicated by the completion of a 5-year apprenticeship program or have an associate degree in Electric Theory or a related field and 5 years of experience as an Electrical Technician, Relay Technician, Generation Line Technician.
  • Must be able to apply mastery of skills in instrument control through supplier or vendor training such as AVO -Megger, programmable logic and control programming.
  • Candidates must possess broad knowledge of instrumentation equipment, supplies and techniques.
  • Candidates will be required to pass a technical assessment if they do not have a Journey status as a System Protection Technician.
  • Must be able to be on standby and work scheduled and unscheduled overtime to support a 24/7 operation.
  • Must have valid driver's license.
  • Must be Respirator Fit tested.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Considerable walking on concrete & uneven surfaces in substation yards. May need to climb steps and use ladders. Good vision required to distinguish colors and numbers while reading indicators on equipment and using a PC/laptop to run diagnostic software. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Office and field work environment. Exposure to all types of weather conditions, dust and construction noise when working in the field.
Why Should You Apply?
Competitive wages, employee development, and opportunity for professional growth.
Robust time off benefits including vacation, free choice, sick leave, parental leave and 11 paid holidays.
Comprehensive benefits package offered including medical, prescription, dental, life insurance, long-term disability, employee assistance program.
Voluntary benefits including vision, supplemental and dependent life insurance, flexible spending, AFLAC options, LifeLock anti-theft, long term care, tuition reimbursement, and BWL's Home Purchase Plan - Forgivable $5,000 loan for purchase of a home in Lansing.
Retirement programs including 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan (DC) (100% company paid up to 9.5 % of base salary for BU positions and up to 13% of base salary for NBU positions), 457 Deferred Compensation matches up to $2,500 per year.
Post retirement benefits offered at the respective level of coverage, co-pays and health care premium, at the same level as active employees.
Two fitness centers located on site open 24/7, work life balance program, employee assistance program, free parking and much more!
About BWL:
The Board of Water & Light serves Lansing, Michigan, and surrounding areas with electricity, water, and steam. Lansing's city charter vests the BWL with full and exclusive management of water, steam, and electric services for or the city. The American Public Power Association has honored the Lansing Board of Water & Light as one of the country's best publicly-owned utilities.
The Location:
Lansing lies at the heart of the Great Lakes State and offers all the beauty and splendor of the four seasons. A haven for swimming, boating, fishing, snowmobiling, golf, and hunting, mid-Michigan is also just a couple hours from premier skiing and one of the most beautiful freshwater lakeshores in the world on our Lake Michigan Coast. Lansing itself is only minutes and miles away from two of the nation's premier universities, Michigan State University and the University of Michigan, and boasts miles of walking, running, biking trails, Potter Park Zoo, professional sports, the arts, and fine dining.
THE BOARD OF WATER & LIGHT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

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