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Senior Protocol Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Senior Controls Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site +1

$115K - $155K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer serves as the technical lead for advanced microgrid control system ... Thorough understanding of industrial communication protocols, primarily Modbus RTU/TCP and DNP3

Senior Controls Engineer

Fort Collins, CO · On-site +1

$115K - $155K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer serves as the technical lead for advanced microgrid control system ... Thorough understanding of industrial communication protocols, primarily Modbus RTU/TCP and DNP3

Senior Control Systems Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$174K - $180K/yr

Control Systems Engineer- Senior This position is located On-site in our Denver Colorado location ... Configure and program PLC/HMI systems and develop control software using CAN bus protocols.

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The Senior Process Engineer is responsible for designing, optimizing, and scaling manufacturing ... Author and execute process validation protocols (IQ/OQ/PQ) in full compliance with 21 CFR Part 111 ...

As a Senior Systems Test Engineer, this role will provide technical leadership for system-level ... Create, maintain, execute, and document test plans, protocols, test cases, and reports, ensuring ...

As a Senior Systems Test Engineer, this role will provide technical leadership for system-level ... Create, maintain, execute, and document test plans, protocols, test cases, and reports, ensuring ...

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Senior Protocol Engineer information

How does a Senior Protocol Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the protocol development lifecycle?

As a Senior Protocol Engineer, collaboration with cross-functional teams is essential throughout the protocol development lifecycle. You will work closely with product managers to understand requirements, coordinate with security engineers to ensure protocol robustness, and partner with frontend/backend engineers to support implementation. Regular communication, code reviews, and design discussions are common, as you’ll often serve as a technical lead, guiding architecture decisions and ensuring alignment across teams. This collaborative approach helps ensure the protocol meets both technical and business objectives while maintaining high standards for security and performance.

What does a protocol engineer do?

A protocol engineer designs, develops, and tests communication protocols used in networking and telecommunications systems. They analyze network traffic, troubleshoot issues, and ensure protocols operate efficiently and securely, often using tools like Wi-Fi analyzers and protocol analyzers. Strong knowledge of networking standards and programming skills are essential for this role.

What does a Senior Protocol Engineer do?

A Senior Protocol Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing communication protocols that enable secure and efficient data exchange over networks or within distributed systems. They work on developing new protocols or improving existing ones, often focusing on areas like blockchain, networking, or cryptography. Their role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, troubleshooting protocol-related issues, and ensuring that protocols are robust, scalable, and secure. Additionally, they may mentor junior engineers and contribute to open-source projects or standards bodies.

Are network engineers still in demand?

Network engineers, including senior protocol engineers, are in strong demand due to ongoing needs for reliable and secure network infrastructure. Skills in routing, switching, network security, and familiarity with tools like Cisco or Juniper are highly valued, and the role often requires certifications such as CCNA or CCNP. The demand is expected to remain steady as organizations continue to expand their digital and cloud-based networks.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior Protocol Engineers or highly specialized network engineers with extensive experience and advanced certifications can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives, and typically requires expertise in network architecture, security, and protocol development.

What is the difference between Senior Protocol Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectSenior Protocol EngineerNetwork Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related, certifications like CCNP, CCIEBachelor's in Computer Science, certifications like CCNA, CCNP
Work EnvironmentDesigning, analyzing, and optimizing network protocols, often in R&D or specialized teamsManaging and maintaining network infrastructure, troubleshooting connectivity issues
Industry UsageTelecommunications, data centers, networking hardware companiesIT departments, service providers, enterprise networks

The Senior Protocol Engineer focuses on developing and optimizing network protocols, requiring deep technical expertise. In contrast, a Network Engineer manages and maintains network infrastructure, ensuring connectivity and performance. Both roles require relevant certifications and work in related environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

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

To thrive as a Senior Protocol Engineer, you need in-depth knowledge of network protocols, distributed systems, cryptography, and strong programming skills, typically backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with protocol design tools, languages like Rust, Go, or C++, and experience with blockchain frameworks or RFC standards are often required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills help in leading teams and navigating complex technical challenges. These abilities are crucial for designing secure, efficient protocols and ensuring reliable communication within advanced technology ecosystems.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Protocol Engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in network security, and certifications like CCNP or CISSP, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is often associated with roles in large organizations, leadership positions, or those working in high-demand industries such as technology or telecommunications.
What are the most commonly searched types of Protocol Engineer jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Protocol Engineer jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Senior Protocol Engineer jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Senior Protocol Engineer job openings:
Snr Controls Engineer (Snr Application Engineer)

Snr Controls Engineer (Snr Application Engineer)

Woodward, Inc.

Fort Collins, CO • On-site

$93K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Woodward Inc. rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 430 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Woodward is committed to creating a great workplace for all team members. Our company and its members are committed to acting with integrity, being respectful and accountable to one another, and staying humble and driven, while maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards.
We are steadfastly committed to attracting the best talent across our communities, creating a rewarding workplace. Together we are fulfilling our purpose to design and deliver energy control solutions our partners count on to power a clean future.
Woodward supports our members' wellbeing and regularly benchmarks with other companies in our industry to offer an extensive Total Reward package for this position. Salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.
We are currently seeking an experienced Senior Controls Engineer (Senior Applications Engineer) to join our team. This individual will play a key role in designing, developing, and optimizing control systems for gas turbines used in industrial applications. If you have a strong background in control engineering for gas turbines and are passionate about leveraging advanced technologies to create cutting-edge solutions, we want to hear from you!
In this role, you will focus on the development and integration of medium to high-complexity control systems for aeroderivative gas turbines. You will lead projects, collaborate across departments, and ensure that designs meet industry standards, project requirements, and safety protocols. You will also support production troubleshooting, mentor junior engineers, and explore emerging technologies to enhance system performance and reliability.
Senior Controls Engineer (Senior Application Engineer)
  • Estimated annual base pay: $93,000 (minimum) - $121,000 (midpoint) - $149,000 (maximum)
  • $5K (gross sign on bonus for hired candidate)
  • Relocation assistance provided
  • This role is eligible for overtime compensation to support travel to client sites (up to 15% travel)

Additional Benefits:
  • Annual cash bonus opportunity
  • 401(k) match (4.5%)
  • Annual Woodward stock contribution (5%)
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
  • Industry-leading medical, dental, and vision insurance upon hire
  • 12 paid holidays, vacation/sick time, and parental leave
  • Adoption assistance and bereavement leave
  • Employee Assistance Program, including mental health benefits
  • Voluntary benefits, including home/auto insurance discounts, life insurance, and more

What You Will Do
  • Design, develop, and implement control systems for gas turbine fuel systems, emissions management, and auxiliary systems
  • Use PLC programming, HMI/SCADA, and motion controllers to create reliable control solutions
  • Apply industry standards such as IEC and ISA, along with safety protocols, in system design and implementation
  • Integrate industrial automation and communication protocols such as Modbus, EGD, and OPC.
  • Support reliable operation through system integration and optimization of automation technologies
  • Diagnose and resolve moderately to highly complex control system issues, including turbine performance and network communication problems
  • Use data analysis to identify root causes and implement corrective actions
  • Create and maintain detailed system documentation aligned with best practices and compliance requirements
  • Mentor junior engineers and interns by sharing project execution guidance, problem-solving approaches, and technical skills
  • Provide constructive feedback to support continuous improvement and professional growth.

Requirements
  • Experience with industrial automation and/or aeroderivative gas turbine control systems, including fuel delivery, emissions controls, and auxiliary systems
  • Proficiency in PLC programming and/or HMI/SCADA tools
  • Knowledge of industrial networking, including switches, VLANs, and protocols such as Modbus, EGD, and OPC
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify trends and improve performance, reliability and safety.
  • Understanding of mechatronics and the interaction between mechanical, electrical, and control systems
  • Familiarity with IEC, ISO, and other relevant international standards

Additional Qualifications: Senior Application Engineer
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field.
  • Experience: 4+ years of experience in gas turbine control systems or equivalent.

Preferred Skills:
  • Familiarity with Gas Turbine controls and operations.
  • Experience in Power Generation or Oil & Gas applications.
  • Network management and cybersecurity knowledge.

Application window is anticipated to close 7 days from original posting date.
This information is provided in compliance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act and is the company's good faith and reasonable estimate of the compensation range and benefits offered for this position. The compensation offered to the successful applicant may vary based on factors including experience, skills, education, location, and other job-related reasons.
This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). All applicants must be U.S. Persons within the meaning of the ITAR and EAR, or eligible to obtain all required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce. The ITAR defines a U.S. Person as a U.S. citizen or national, lawful permanent resident (i.e., 'Green Card holder'), or a protected person (e.g., asylee, or refugee).
Woodward is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other category protected under federal, state, or local laws.

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