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Protective Relay Substation Automation Engineer Jobs

Pond and Company

Substation Engineer

The Woodlands, TX · On-site

$100K - $159K/yr

Develop and review one-line diagrams, relay metering one-line diagrams, protection schemes, AC/DC ... Develop SCADA RTU configurations for substation automation and communication systems. * Design ...

Shermco Industries, Inc.

Traveling Automation Engineer

$70K - $120K/yr

Substation automation, SCADA engineering, and commissioning. * IEC 61850 engineering, protection relay configuration, and system testing. * Industrial networking, firewall fundamentals, VLANs, PRP ...

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All JobsProtective Relay Substation Automation Engineer Jobs

Protective Relay Substation Automation Engineer information

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$62.5K

$113.6K

$149.5K

How much do protective relay substation automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for protective relay substation automation engineer in the United States is $113,627.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $125,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are common challenges faced by Protective Relay Substation Automation Engineers when integrating new technologies into existing substations?

Integrating new technologies, such as advanced protection relays or automation systems, into existing substations can present several challenges. These include ensuring compatibility with legacy equipment, minimizing system downtime during cutovers, and maintaining compliance with evolving industry standards. Engineers often collaborate closely with operations teams, manufacturers, and IT specialists to develop phased implementation plans and thorough testing procedures. Staying updated on the latest advancements and standards is essential for effective integration and long-term reliability.

What does a Protective Relay Substation Automation Engineer do?

A Protective Relay Substation Automation Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining systems that protect electrical substations from faults and automate their operations. They work with protective relays, control systems, and communication networks to ensure reliability and safety of power delivery. Their role involves configuring relay settings, troubleshooting issues, and integrating automation technologies to monitor and control substation equipment efficiently. These engineers play a crucial part in preventing outages and minimizing equipment damage caused by electrical faults.

What is the difference between Protective Relay Substation Automation Engineer vs Substation Engineer?

AspectProtective Relay Substation Automation EngineerSubstation Engineer
CredentialsElectrical engineering degree, certifications in protective relays and automationElectrical or power engineering degree, possibly PE license
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and commissioning of relay protection and automation systems in substationsOverall substation design, construction, and maintenance
Industry UsageFocused on protection relays, automation, and control systems within substationsBroader substation planning, construction, and operation

Protective Relay Substation Automation Engineers specialize in relay protection and automation systems, ensuring reliable power system operation. Substation Engineers have a broader role, overseeing entire substation projects. Both roles require electrical engineering expertise, but their focus areas differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Protective Relay Substation Automation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Protective Relay Substation Automation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, power systems, and protective relay principles, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional licensure (e.g., PE). Familiarity with SCADA systems, relay testing equipment, and industry-standard software like SEL, GE, or ABB platforms is typically required, along with certifications such as NETA or IEEE training. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for diagnosing complex issues and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure reliable power system operation, minimize downtime, and support the safety and efficiency of electrical infrastructure.
Infographic showing various Protective Relay Substation Automation Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,627 per year, or $54.6 per hour.
Protective Relay and Automation Engineer I, II, III, and IV

Protective Relay and Automation Engineer I, II, III, and IV

Arizona G&T Cooperatives

Benson, AZ • On-site

$7K - $13K/mo

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Join Arizona G&T Cooperatives as a Protective Relay and Automation Engineer and immerse yourself in an exciting opportunity to shape the future of the energy sector. By leveraging innovative technologies, you will play a crucial role in enhancing system reliability and safety, pushing the boundaries of engineering excellence. Collaborate with a team of forward-thinking professionals who are dedicated to solving complex challenges and driving transformative advancements in energy automation. This position offers a unique chance to contribute to cutting-edge projects, impacting both local communities and the industry at large.
As part of a company that values integrity and smart solutions, you will find fulfillment in being at the forefront of energy innovation. Apply now to elevate your career while making a difference in the world.
PURPOSE: As a Protective Relay and Automation Engineer, your daily responsibilities will involve designing and implementing protective relay schemes for various electrical systems. You will conduct thorough analysis and testing of relay settings and automation protocols to ensure optimal performance. Collaborating closely with interdisciplinary teams, you will troubleshoot and resolve system issues while maintaining a strong focus on safety and compliance standards.
Documentation of relay configurations and system modifications will be essential, along with the preparation of reports and recommendations for system improvements. Regular engagement with field personnel will require you to provide technical support, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of our energy operations. Continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies will be expected as you contribute to ongoing projects that drive innovation within the organization.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Option preferable) from an accredited college or university
  • 0-2 years' experience in power system troubleshooting and design
  • Engineer-In-Training Certificate desirable
  • Familiarity with utility protective relaying application, control scheme design, electrical apparatus testing, relay testing, meter testing and substation automation/integration desirable
  • Knowledge of relaying and substation automation/integration communications desirable
  • Knowledge of ASPEN OneLiner (short circuit/coordination) and ASPEN Relay Database software desirable
  • Thorough understanding of word processing, spreadsheets and computer application in general
  • Effective oral and written communication skills
  • Effective team leadership and participant skills
  • Any equivalent combination of related education, training, and/or experience can be substituted for requirements listed above.
ESSENTIAL AND MARGINAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Perform short circuit and coordination studies within power delivery system, other utilities and member coop systems.
  • Manage short circuit/coordination and relay database software.
  • Manage an in-house relay committee, consisting of members from Operations and Maintenance, to review and approve all relay applications and settings, evaluate new products and review system outages for proper relay operations.
  • Serve as AzG&T representative on regional protective relaying operating and coordinating committees such as SWAT SCWG.
  • Provide project team engineering support by preparing project technical specifications, drawings, programming, procurement and construction documents for substation automation/integration equipment as required.
  • Develop, with the assistance of the Project Services Administrators, cost/benefit analyses and project estimates and costs for substation automation/integration equipment.
  • Provide engineering design and commissioning assistance as required.
  • Assist Planning Engineers with preparing planning studies and fault analyses.
  • Support System Engineer and Field Engineers in analyzing system disturbance faults.
  • Continue the system review effort to improve the reliability of the system to minimize relay miss-operation.
  • Provide engineering support to maintenance craft personnel and System Operations in optimizing the operation of the power delivery system.
  • Provide technical support to substation engineering group regarding relay protection design.
  • Manages changes and evidence related to NERC procedures and controls for delegated requirements.
  • Manages changes and evidence related to NERC RSAWs including the narrative and evidence of the compliance for delegated requirements.
  • Performs primary interviewee functions related to NERC compliance audits for delegated requirements.

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