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Protection Control Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Controls Technician I 4P/589

Bessemer, AL

$26.75 - $35.25/hr

Protection & Control SystemsInstall, maintain, and troubleshoot protection and control relaying systems and associated devicesInstall, program, and maintain microprocessor relays and related control ...

Controls Engineer I

Hueytown, AL · On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

Key Responsibilities Protection & Control Systems * Install, maintain, and troubleshoot protection and control relaying systems and associated devices * Install, program, and maintain microprocessor ...

Controls Technician I

Hueytown, AL · On-site

$26.75 - $35.25/hr

Key Responsibilities Protection & Control Systems * Install, maintain, and troubleshoot protection and control relaying systems and associated devices * Install, program, and maintain microprocessor ...

Design Engineer - Substation

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$92K - $117K/yr

Develop protection and control schematics, wiring diagrams, cable lists and panel layouts. * Develop design drawings, calculations, and bills of material from engineering documents for planning ...

Showing results 21-40

Protection Control information

What is protection control?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a protection control engineer?

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 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.

How to become a protection control engineer?

To become a protection control engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field is required. Gaining experience with power systems, protective relays, and control systems is essential, along with obtaining relevant certifications such as the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) or Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with industry standards and hands-on training with protection devices and control schemes are also important for this role.

What job categories do people searching Protection Control jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Protection Control jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Protection Control jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Protection Control job openings:

Infographic showing various Protection Control job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Controls Technician I 4P/589

4P Consulting Inc

Bessemer, AL

$26.75 - $35.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Controls Technician IThe Controls Technician I supports the installation, maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of protection and control systems used in power substations. This entry-level technical role is ideal for candidates with foundational electrical knowledge who are seeking hands-on experience in utility protection and control environments.The position requires strong troubleshooting skills, the ability to interpret electrical schematics, and a commitment to safety and operational reliability.Protection & Control SystemsInstall, maintain, and troubleshoot protection and control relaying systems and associated devicesInstall, program, and maintain microprocessor relays and related control equipmentPerform calibration of protection and control relays and devicesSupport monitoring systems for substation protectionField & Technical SupportAssist assigned project leads with field assignmentsSupport creation and maintenance of protection and control documentationParticipate in process hazard analyses (PHA)Maintain compliance with safety procedures and regulatory standardsEquipment & Systems ExposureWork with equipment including:Microprocessor relaysProgrammable Logic Controllers (PLCs)Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs)SensorsPumps and motorsAC and DC systemsContinuous DevelopmentStay informed on current industry trends and best practices in protection and control systemsRequired QualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalentAssociate's degree in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Maintenance, or related field preferred0–3 years of experience in a controls technician or similar roleAbility to read and interpret electrical schematicsWorking knowledge of PLCs and HMIsExperience with AC and DC systemsProficiency in Microsoft Office applicationsMust live within a reasonable commute to the assigned APC office location