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Relay Protection Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Substation Engineer

Detroit, MI ยท On-site

$97K - $124K/yr

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While ... relay panel wiring * Prepare calculations for studies and reports (grounding, lighting protection ...

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Showing results 1-20

Relay Protection Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$58.8K

$102.9K

$160.4K

How much do relay protection engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for relay protection engineer in Michigan is $102,886.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,300.00 and $113,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Relay Protection Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, power systems analysis, and relay protection principles, often supported by a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Proficiency with protection relay test equipment, power system simulation software (such as ETAP or SEL), and familiarity with industry standards like IEEE and NERC are commonly required, along with certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) being advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills enable accurate system protection designs, reliable operation, and clear collaboration with operations and maintenance teams to ensure electrical grid reliability.

What are typical daily responsibilities for a Relay Protection Engineer?

A Relay Protection Engineer's daily tasks often include reviewing and designing protection schemes for substations and transmission lines, configuring and testing relay settings, and analyzing system events or faults to determine causes and solutions. They may also be responsible for drafting technical reports and documentation, coordinating with other engineers and field technicians, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations and standards. Team collaboration is frequent, as projects often require input from system planning, operations, and maintenance staff. On-the-job learning is ongoing, with opportunities to work on diverse projects and advance into specialized roles or leadership positions over time.

What is a Relay Protection Engineer job?

A Relay Protection Engineer is responsible for designing, testing, and maintaining protective relay systems used in power grids to ensure electrical equipment operates safely and reliably. They analyze system faults, coordinate relay settings, and troubleshoot failures to prevent damage to transformers, generators, and transmission lines. Their role involves working with utilities, industrial plants, and substations to enhance power system stability and efficiency.

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Relay Protection Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Relay Protection Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Relay Protection Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 79% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,886 per year, or $49.5 per hour.
Substation Protection & Controls Designer

Substation Protection & Controls Designer

Commonwealth Associates, Inc.

Jackson, MI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Primary Purpose

We are seeking a Protection & Controls Substation Designer to support the development of detailed engineering design deliverables for substation projects. This role focuses on the creation and modification of protection and control design packages, including schematic diagrams, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, and interconnection drawings, in accordance with established engineering standards and project requirements.

Under general supervision, this individual will apply knowledge of protection and control systems to produce accurate, high-quality deliverables, ensuring alignment with company standards, client specifications, and industry practices. The role includes supporting relay and control system design implementation, performing design checks, and assisting with material takeoffs and equipment layouts.

This position works closely with engineers and multidisciplinary teams to coordinate design efforts, maintain document control, and meet project schedules. The ideal candidate is continuing to build technical expertise in substation protection and control design and is motivated to grow within the role.

Job Responsibilities

  • Continues to learn and apply project standards, systems, document control, department and company policies and procedures.

  • Ensures that deliverables are accurate and compliant by developing an understanding of the Quality Program and project standards.

  • Broadens knowledge of the applications required to modify and develop less complex deliverables.

  • May assist with material quantity estimates and dimensional checks.

  • May assist in coordinating deliverables within the team or teams involved on the same project.

  • Learns to identify the needs of internal clients and begins to gain a basic understanding of external clients.

Experience

A minimum of 1 year experience in substation design, with exposure to Protection & Controls preferred