1

Relay Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

$84K - $97K/yr

Relay integration and logic programming for: SEL, Basler, and GE relays * Communications including: * Standards * Fiber Optic Cable Selection and Application * Radio Communication and Antenna ...

Showing results 21-40

Relay Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$56.2K

$95.8K

$189K

How much do relay engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for relay engineer in Illinois is $95,839.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,800.00 and $99,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a relay engineer?

A Relay Engineer is responsible for the design, testing, and maintenance of protection and control systems for electrical power grids. They ensure that relays and protective devices function correctly to prevent faults and maintain system reliability. Their work involves analyzing system data, programming relays, and coordinating with utility companies to enhance power system stability.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a relay engineer in the power utility industry?

As a Relay Engineer, your daily tasks often involve designing and reviewing protection schemes, performing relay settings calculations, and conducting testing or commissioning of relay systems at substations. You may also be responsible for analyzing relay operations during power system events, troubleshooting issues, and preparing technical reports or documentation. Many Relay Engineers work closely with field technicians, project managers, and other engineering disciplines to ensure seamless system integration and operational safety. The role may require both office-based design work and on-site fieldwork, depending on project needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the relay engineer position, and why are they important?

A Relay Engineer requires solid knowledge of electrical engineering principles, relay protection schemes, and power system analysis, usually supported by a degree in electrical engineering and relevant field experience. Familiarity with relay testing equipment, SCADA systems, and industry-recognized certifications such as NETA or IEEE standards is highly beneficial. Exceptional problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills for success in this role. These abilities ensure accurate design, installation, and maintenance of protection systems, which are critical for maintaining the reliability and safety of electrical networks.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Relay Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Relay Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Relay Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,839 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Power Grid Automation Engineer II

G&W Electric Co

Woodridge, IL • On-site

$84K - $97K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Prepare switchgear automation solution proposals including functional descriptions and pricing.

  • Design logic, program relays and controllers, and test systems for distribution automation projects.

  • Project manage distribution automation projects from quoting to customer site acceptance.


Job description

Power Grid Automation Engineer II

Technical lead and programmer for the integration of switchgear automation providing project management and customer support.

As a Power Grid Automation Engineer II, you will:

  • Prepare GW switchgear automation solution proposals that include written functional description and pricing.
  • Apply product knowledge of relays, programming, and communication in switchgear distribution automation applications.
  • Provide pre and post sales technical support to sales/marketing, production engineering, and customers for customized distribution automation solutions.
  • Project Manage Distribution Automation projects from Quoting stage through Customer site acceptance.
  • Design logic, program relays and controllers, and test systems as required for projects.
  • Develop flexible program templates and software solutions that can be combined with hardware for customizable product packages
  • Manage technical relationship with key DA technology vendors
  • Assist Production Engineering with minor modifications as necessary for specific customer applications.
  • Train and assist customers with installations and commissioning including on-site activities as necessary.
  • Have the ability to function in cross-functional work teams

We are looking for someone who:

  • Holds a Bachelor's degree (B. S.) in Electrical Engineering and 5+ years of progressive experience in Engineering design and/or development.
  • Must have excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with peers and internal and external customers.
  • Has strong industrial / utility programming understanding and skills with a strong preference for relay programming.
  • Has training and/or experience in relays and switchgear and electrical troubleshooting.
  • Possesses knowledge of MS Windows, Word, Spreadsheet and project applications is required.
  • Can travel overnight 5-10%
  • Has the following preferred technical knowledge:
    • Three Phase power systems including:
      • Symmetrical components
      • Load flow
      • Over current protection functions
    • Relay integration and logic programming for: SEL, Basler, and GE relays
    • Communications including:
      • Standards
      • Fiber Optic Cable Selection and Application
      • Radio Communication and Antenna Selection
      • Cellular Communication and Antenna Selection
    • Typical primary Voltage and Current test procedures
    • Electromagnetics and the application of motors, transformers, and generators on the power distribution system

What we offer you:

Typical pay is $84,872-97,193 annually.

Please note the pay information shown above is a general guideline. Pay is based upon candidate skills, experience, and qualifications.

This position is eligible for participation in our Quarterly Incentive Pay Program

G&W Electric offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Short and Long-Term Disability
  • Life Insurance
  • Health club membership program and reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • 401 (k)
  • Annual Profit Sharing
  • Vacation
  • Air-conditioned/heated state-of-the-art manufacturing facility

About G&W Electric

Innovating since 1905, G&W Electric has grown into a global leader in engineered electrical power grid solutions. Working with us means joining a worldwide team of passionate manufacturing professionals striving to continually improve the technologies the world depends on to deliver safe, reliable electricity. Our culture is focused on employee success, so we foster an entrepreneurial environment that encourages everyone to thrive.

Learn more about our company by watching this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMtAhsdYeUQ

G&W Electric enjoys a long reputation for product quality, innovation and world-class customer service to the power industry. We have established this reputation by believing that our greatest asset is our employees. We owe our success to the initiative and talents of highly skilled individuals within our team-based organization. Our goal is to set the standard for customer satisfaction by ensuring a superior level of service, performance and innovation. As a global organization and industry leader, we are committed to cultivating an engaging work environment that embraces our core values and develops our talent. Our continuous focus on growth and innovation means that you become part of a company that provides challenging opportunities, rewards excellence and combines your individual expertise to achieve a higher level of shared success. As part of our organization, you also help power the world!

G&W Electric is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employees and applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law. G&W Electric participates in the E-Verify process for all new hires.

*G&W Electric participates in the E-Verify process for all new hires.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor