Relay Protection Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

System Protection Engineer II - IV / Principal Engineer

Position Type: Full-Time

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Company-funded retirement contribution
• Sign-on bonus and/or relocation assistance may be available

Position Summary

We are seeking a System Protection Engineer to perform complex engineering work involving the design, analysis, implementation, and maintenance of power system protection schemes. This role is responsible for ensuring the reliability, safety, and compliance of electric power systems while providing technical leadership and support across engineering and field operations.

Position level (Engineer II, III, IV, or Principal Engineer) will be determined based on the selected candidate's education, experience, and qualifications.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform short circuit, overcurrent, and distance coordination studies using ASPEN OneLiner or similar software.
• Develop, calculate, and maintain protective relay settings for new and existing electrical systems.
• Analyze system disturbances and develop corrective action plans to improve system reliability.
• Support compliance with applicable NERC Protection and Control (PRC) and Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards.
• Review protection system one-line diagrams, AC/DC schematics, wiring diagrams, and relay design documentation.
• Ensure engineering work complies with applicable industry standards, regulatory requirements, and company procedures.
• Provide technical guidance and troubleshooting support to field personnel.
• Mentor and train junior engineers and technical staff.
• Participate in engineering peer reviews and quality assurance processes.
• Communicate technical recommendations and engineering solutions to internal stakeholders and leadership.
• Contribute to the development and improvement of engineering standards and best practices.
• Provide technical oversight for contractors and project teams as needed.
• Maintain a strong commitment to safety while performing all assigned duties.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Engineering from an ABET-accredited institution.
• Experience level determines engineering classification:
• • Engineer II: 2+ years of engineering experience (or 1+ year with an FE certification or Master's degree)
  • Engineer III: 4+ years of engineering experience (or 3+ years with an FE certification or Master's degree)
  • Engineer IV: 5–7 years of engineering experience
  • Principal Engineer: 10+ years of engineering experience (9+ years with a Master's degree); Professional Engineer (PE) license required
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Preferred

• Power Systems Engineering specialization or advanced degree.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• Experience using ASPEN OneLiner, CAPE, or similar power system analysis software.

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong understanding of power system protection principles and relay coordination.
• Knowledge of transmission, distribution, and generation systems.
• Familiarity with IEEE, ANSI, NEC, NESC, and other applicable engineering standards.
• Ability to interpret one-line diagrams, electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
• Experience applying engineering principles to improve power system reliability.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
• Self-motivated with strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Comfortable working around high-voltage electrical equipment up to 345kV.

Computer Skills

• Proficiency with electrical engineering analysis and design software.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel.

Work Environment

This position is primarily office-based with periodic field work supporting high-voltage electrical facilities and construction sites. Field work may require walking, climbing, lifting up to 50 pounds, bending, crouching, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when working in the field.

Additional Requirements

Candidates may be required to successfully complete:

• Criminal background check
• Identity verification
• Credit check (where applicable)
• Cybersecurity training and ongoing compliance requirements, depending on the position