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$72K

$114.7K

$154K

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

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior protection & controls engineer in the United States is $114,724.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $128,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Protection & Controls Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Protection & Controls Engineer, you need deep knowledge of power system protection, relay coordination, and control systems, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering and several years of utility or industrial experience. Proficiency with relay software (such as SEL, GE, or ABB), CAD tools, and familiarity with NERC, IEEE, and utility standards are essential, with a Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred. Strong problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help navigate complex projects and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These abilities are crucial to ensure power system reliability, regulatory compliance, and safe, efficient project execution.

How does a Senior Protection & Controls Engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a substation upgrade project?

A Senior Protection & Controls Engineer plays a key role in cross-departmental collaboration during substation upgrade projects. They coordinate closely with design, construction, and commissioning teams to ensure protection schemes are correctly integrated into the overall system. This involves reviewing project requirements, providing technical support, and communicating updates or issues to project managers and field engineers. Effective collaboration ensures the project meets safety, reliability, and regulatory standards while staying on schedule.

What are Senior Protection & Controls Engineers?

Senior Protection & Controls Engineers are experienced professionals who design, implement, and maintain systems that protect electrical power systems from faults and ensure reliable operation. They develop protective relaying schemes, coordinate with other engineers, and analyze system events to prevent outages or equipment damage. Their responsibilities also include troubleshooting, compliance with industry standards, and mentoring junior engineers. These engineers play a critical role in safeguarding power infrastructure and ensuring the stability of the electrical grid.

What is the difference between Senior Protection & Controls Engineer vs Protection & Controls Engineer?

AspectSenior Protection & Controls EngineerProtection & Controls Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering and several years of experienceRequires a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and troubleshooting protection systems in power plants or substationsAssist in installation, maintenance, and testing of protection systems
Industry UsageCommonly employed in utility companies, power generation, and transmissionUsed in similar settings but often at entry or mid-level positions

The main difference is that Senior Protection & Controls Engineers typically have more experience, take on complex design and leadership roles, and oversee projects, whereas Protection & Controls Engineers focus on implementing and maintaining protection systems at a more operational level.

More about Senior Protection Controls Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Protection & Controls Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Protection & Controls Engineer job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Senior Protection & Controls Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Protection & Controls Engineer jobs are:
Senior Protection Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Protection & Controls Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,724 per year, or $55.2 per hour.
Substation Protection & Controls Engineer

Substation Protection & Controls Engineer

Valdes Architecture & Engineering

Lombard, IL

$96.90K - $123.50K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 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 communication 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
  • 3+ 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
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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