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Protection & Controls Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

ATS Automation

Controls Engineer II

Rolling Meadows, IL · On-site

$600/day

Controls Engineer II WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU Benefits: * Compensation: $82,500 - $96,000 USD per annum ... Ensure that the required protective equipment is used for the assigned tasks * Attend all required ...

Hansoninc

Electrical Controls Engineer - Power

Lisle, IL

$78.90K - $105.50K/yr

Power Controls Engineer (Power Industry) Position Type: Full-Time Industry Focus: Power Delivery ... Protective relays * Assist with commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting control and ...

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Protection Controls Engineer information

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$56.7K

$99.5K

$134.9K

How much do protection & controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for protection & controls engineer in Chicago, IL is $99,485.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,000.00 and $111,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Protection & Controls Engineer job?

A Protection & Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining electrical protection and control systems for power grids, substations, and industrial facilities. They ensure the safe and reliable operation of electrical systems by developing protective relaying schemes, performing system studies, and troubleshooting faults. Their role involves working with relays, circuit breakers, SCADA systems, and automation technologies to prevent equipment damage and power outages. They collaborate with utilities, engineering teams, and field technicians to optimize system performance and ensure compliance with industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Protection & Controls Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Protection & Controls Engineer, you need a solid understanding of electrical power systems, protection schemes, and control logic, usually backed by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as SEL AcSELerator, ETAP, and relay programming tools, as well as certifications like PE or NETA, are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are key soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure accurate system protection, minimize downtime, and support safe, reliable operation of critical power infrastructure.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Protection & Controls Engineer?

A Protection & Controls Engineer typically spends their day designing, reviewing, and testing protection and control systems for electrical substations and power grids. Daily tasks may include developing relay settings, performing fault analysis, creating wiring diagrams, and collaborating with project teams and field technicians to ensure accurate implementation. You will also troubleshoot and resolve issues in existing systems, update project documentation, and participate in meetings with clients or stakeholders. This role often balances independent technical work with teamwork, providing variety and opportunities to apply both engineering knowledge and problem-solving skills.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Protection & Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Protection & Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
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Protection Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Protection & Controls Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 78% In-person, 11% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,485 per year, or $47.8 per hour.
Senior Protection & Controls Engineer

Senior Protection & Controls Engineer

Valdes Architecture & Engineering

Lombard, IL • On-site

$125K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Seasoned Substation Protection & Controls Engineer with 5-10 years of experience in protective relaying, SCADA, and communications for high voltage substations. Knowledge of microprocessor relays and capable of preparing schematic diagrams. This individual interfaces with client engineering representatives and other discipline engineers within the Valdes A&E organization. May visit job site as required for exchange of information.
Responsibilities
  • Solid Knowledge within the Electrical Engineering discipline with the capability and the initiative to perform the following tasks while supervising and mentoring junior staff members: assist staff with ensuring that engineering packages are completed on time and within budget
  • Ability to prepare design packages consisting of control panel drawings, schematic diagrams, wiring diagrams, and bills of materials
  • Maintain positive business relationships with key clients' contacts throughout the project lifecycle
  • Coordinate engineering details/drafting with multiple department designers to develop project drawings
  • On-site interface with client engineering representatives and other discipline engineers
  • Design of protective relaying schemes for high voltage substations.
  • AC and DC load calculations
  • Knowledge of microprocessor relays
  • Development of wiring diagrams and schematic drawings
  • Cable routing design
  • Utility interface design

Protection & Controls Duties
  • Schematic diagram design
  • Relay selection, control panel drawings, and specifications
  • Bills of materials
  • Panel front view and wiring diagrams
  • SCADA overview development
  • Control building and panel hardware specifications
  • Development of sequence of operation and functional description documents

Technical Competencies
  • Ability to communicate complicated issues in a simple manner
  • Ability to multi-task and handle multiple priorities simultaneously
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Knowledgeable in SKM electrical modeling software

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering
  • 5+ years of experience working in substation design
  • Must possess exceptional interpersonal and organizational skills
  • Must be able to work in the US without sponsorship now or in the future

$125,000 - $170,000 a year
Salaries for all positions are based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, total years of experience in the industry, education, skills, and qualifications. Compensation may vary depending on the candidate's individual background and expertise. Salaries are subject to fluctuation outside of the given range. The indicated range is not a commitment and meant as a guideline. All compensation, exempt or non-exempt status, and benefits will be discussed during the interview process.
Valdes Architecture & Engineering Company is looking for bright and talented people that want to take their career to the next level. We offer many rewarding career paths to challenge and engage our employees at all phases of their careers. Our office provides a team environment, and excellent working conditions, which allow individuals to maximize their potential. Valdes Architecture & Engineering offers an outstanding benefits package including Medical, Dental, 401K plan, Company paid Long Term and Short Term Disability Insurance, Company paid Life and AD&D Insurance, Pet Insurance, a discounted gym membership and tuition reimbursement.
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