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Protection Control Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Protection & Control Engineer , you will design and implement advanced protection and control systems that keep the grid safe, reliable, and ready for the energy transition. This role places you ...

As a Protection & Control Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the design and development of utility substation Protection & Control (P&C) engineering design packages that include drawings such ...

As a Protection & Control Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the design and development of utility substation Protection & Control (P&C) engineering design packages that include drawings such ...

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Protection Control information

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

To thrive as a Protection Control Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, power systems, and relay protection principles, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software like SEL AcSELerator, ETAP, and SCADA systems, as well as NERC/CIP compliance knowledge, is essential. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication enhance teamwork and troubleshooting efficiency. These abilities ensure the reliable operation and safety of power systems, minimizing outages and protecting critical infrastructure.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Protection Control, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Protection Control often encounter challenges such as coordinating between field teams and engineers during system testing, managing tight project deadlines, and staying current with evolving industry standards and technologies. Effective communication and meticulous documentation are essential to ensure system reliability and minimize errors. Additionally, ongoing training and collaboration with other departments, such as operations and maintenance, help address technical complexities and support professional growth.

What are Protection Control jobs?

Protection Control jobs involve the design, installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of protective relays and control systems in electrical power systems. Professionals in this field ensure the safe and reliable operation of substations and power grids by detecting faults and isolating affected sections to prevent damage and outages. These roles require strong knowledge of electrical engineering principles, as well as experience with power system automation and safety standards. Protection Control specialists often work for utility companies, engineering firms, or industrial facilities.

What is the difference between Protection Control vs Relay Technician?

AspectProtection ControlRelay Technician
CertificationsPE, NICET, or equivalent; industry-specific trainingNICET certification; electrical or electronics training
Work EnvironmentPower plants, substations, utility companiesSubstations, power plants, maintenance facilities
Job FocusDesign, testing, and operation of protection systemsInstallation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of relays

Protection Control specialists focus on designing and managing protection systems to ensure electrical grid safety, while Relay Technicians primarily handle the installation and maintenance of relays. Both roles require electrical knowledge and certifications, often working in similar environments within the power industry. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the electrical utility sector.

More about Protection Control jobs
What cities are hiring for Protection Control jobs? Cities with the most Protection Control job openings:
What states have the most Protection Control jobs? States with the most job openings for Protection Control jobs include:
Infographic showing various Protection Control job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.
Protection & Control Engineer

Protection & Control Engineer

Electric Machine Control Inc

Trussville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Protection & Control Engineer
Location: Trussville, Alabama
Department: Engineering / Power Systems

Position Summary

We are seeking a motivated Protection & Control (P&C) Engineer to join our engineering team in Trussville, Alabama. In this role, you will support the design, development, testing, and commissioning of protection and control systems for electric utility substations and related power infrastructure. You will work closely with engineers, designers, technicians, project managers, and customers to deliver safe, reliable, and high-quality solutions.

This position is ideal for an engineer who enjoys hands-on technical work, detailed problem-solving, and seeing projects through from concept to completion.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design protection and control systems for substation and utility projects.
  • Prepare and review one-line diagrams, three-line diagrams, AC/DC schematics, wiring diagrams, relay logic, and control house drawings.
  • Develop or support relay settings, protection schemes, and coordination studies.
  • Review engineering drawings, field markups, and as-built documentation for accuracy and completeness.
  • Support SCADA and substation communication integration with protection and control systems.
  • Coordinate with relay technicians, CAD designers, field crews, and project managers throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Provide technical support during testing, commissioning, and startup activities.
  • Troubleshoot protection, control, and communications issues in the field and in the office.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable utility standards, engineering practices, and safety requirements.
  • Maintain clear documentation and communicate technical information effectively.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in protection and control engineering, substation design, or a related utility engineering role.
  • Working knowledge of substation protection schemes, relay applications, and control circuit design.
  • Ability to read and interpret detailed electrical drawings and technical documentation.
  • Familiarity with protective relays, SCADA integration, and substation automation concepts.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and troubleshooting skills.
  • Effective communication skills and the ability to work well with a team.
  • Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with major relay platforms such as SEL, GE, Siemens, ABB/Hitachi, or similar.
  • Familiarity with relay setting development, coordination studies, or short circuit analysis.
  • Experience supporting utility substation projects from design through commissioning.
  • EIT or PE certification, or progress toward licensure, is a plus.

Work Environment

This role may involve a combination of office and field work, including travel to substations and customer sites. Candidates should be comfortable working in both collaborative office settings and active field environments.

Why Join Us

This is an opportunity to work on meaningful projects that support critical infrastructure and reliable electric service. You’ll gain exposure to a wide range of technical challenges while working with a team that values quality, initiative, and professional growth.