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$34K

$104.6K

$152.5K

How much do substation automation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for substation automation in the United States is $104,604.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,500.00 and $135,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest salary for an automation engineer?

The highest salaries for automation engineers, including those working in substation automation, can exceed $120,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in control systems and programming. Senior professionals in specialized industries or high-demand regions may earn higher compensation packages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Substation Automation, and why are they important?

To thrive in Substation Automation, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, power systems, and automation, often supported by a relevant degree and industry certifications. Familiarity with SCADA systems, protective relays, IEC 61850 protocols, and automation software is typically required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help professionals excel in troubleshooting and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure reliable substation operation, enhance grid safety, and support efficient integration of automation technologies.

How does a Substation Automation professional typically collaborate with other engineering teams during a project?

Substation Automation professionals regularly work alongside protection, control, and electrical design engineers to ensure seamless integration of automation systems within substations. Collaboration often involves coordinating on system requirements, reviewing technical drawings, and participating in site commissioning activities. Effective communication with SCADA engineers and IT specialists is also essential to address cybersecurity and data integration challenges. This teamwork ensures that automation solutions are reliable, secure, and meet project specifications.

What is substation automation?

Substation automation refers to the integration of advanced control, monitoring, and protection technologies into electrical substations. This process uses intelligent electronic devices (IEDs), communication networks, and software systems to automatically monitor and control substation equipment, improving reliability and efficiency. Substation automation enables real-time data acquisition, remote operation, and quick fault detection, which enhances the overall performance of the power grid. It also supports the transition to smart grids by providing better system visibility and automation.

What is the difference between Substation Automation vs Substation Technician?

AspectSubstation AutomationSubstation Technician
CertificationsPE, IEC 61850 knowledge, control system certificationsElectrical certifications, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentControl rooms, field devices, system integrationFieldwork, equipment maintenance, troubleshooting
Industry UsageDesign, programming, and managing automation systemsInstallation, repair, and maintenance of substation equipment

Substation Automation involves designing and managing control systems for substations, focusing on automation and communication protocols. Substation Technicians perform hands-on maintenance and troubleshooting of physical equipment. While both roles require electrical knowledge, automation specialists focus on system integration, whereas technicians handle field repairs. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within the substation industry.

Is EEe a high paying job?

Substation automation jobs generally offer competitive salaries, especially for roles requiring specialized skills in electrical systems, control systems, and automation technologies. Salaries can vary based on experience, certifications, and location, but they are typically above average for engineering-related positions. Advanced roles may also include opportunities for overtime and technical bonuses.

How much do substation engineers make in the US?

Substation engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior or specialized roles can pay higher, especially with expertise in automation systems and protective relays.

What is meant by substation automation?

Substation automation refers to the use of digital control systems, such as SCADA and intelligent electronic devices, to monitor, control, and protect electrical substations automatically. It enhances reliability, efficiency, and safety by enabling remote operation and real-time data analysis for power system management.
More about Substation Automation jobs
What job categories do people searching Substation Automation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Substation Automation jobs are:
Substation Automation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substation Automation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,604 per year, or $50.3 per hour.

Principal Engineer - Substation Automation

NEI Electric Power Engineering, Inc

Lakewood, CO • On-site, Remote

$150K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Principal Engineer - Substation Automation
Energy Consulting Group
About the Position
As a Principal Engineer - Substation Automation in the Energy Consulting group, you will function as a subject matter expert working on NEIs new or complex projects in the Mission Critical & Industrial Department. This position will have a high level of autonomy and involve leadership, mentoring, and engineering responsibilities. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment helping with QA/QC, training, cost estimation, and establishing / enforcing best practices and procedures.
Salary Range: $150,000 - $200,000 / year
The salary range above is based upon the Denver, Colorado labor market.
This opportunity is available to both local / in-office (Lakewood, CO) and full-time remote candidates.
Essential Responsibilities
  • Works closely with Directors, Program Managers, and Project Engineers, acting as a subject matter expert on the most complex projects within the Mission Critical & Industrial department
  • Performs or reviews detailed design of all aspects of Substation Automation projects include electrical diagrams, SCADA drawings and points lists, communications and networking diagrams and segmented IP lists, selection of equipment, writing of equipment specifications, and project budgeting/scheduling.
  • Prepares or reviews software-defined relay and device settings, develops reports, and guides field personnel for SCADA, network, and protection systems
  • Spearheads the creation and implementation of standards and provides technical leadership and guidance for QA/QC on substation engineering projects
  • Attend technical conferences and develop technical industry content including white papers. Strong preference for someone to be involved in industry committees.
  • Acts a Subject Matter Expert in the proposal process interpreting RFPs, developing and approving cost estimates and proposal write ups.
  • Trains, coaches, and mentors engineers across the department at various levels to promote quality and ensure career growth for team members.
  • Assists with the creation and enforcement of technical standards across the department
  • Meeting with new and perspective clients, assisting the Business Development team to showcase company capability and thought leadership.
  • Leads teams for field inspection, testing, and commissioning of Substation Automation systems
  • Checks the work of engineers and field service personnel for overall quality and accuracy as required
  • Maintains professional understanding of all applicable Codes and Standards, and construction practices
  • Maintains strong and responsive Company-Client relationships, particularly for new or high-risk scopes and relationships.
  • Maintains high ethical and professional standards
  • Attends safety training and follows safety rules and guidelines
  • Other duties as assigned
Must Have
  • Education: Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology from an accredited institution
  • Experience: 7+ years of relevant engineering or field experience
  • Licensure: PE is preferred
  • Deep experience with high voltage substation automation, including IEC 61850, is required
  • Interest in training, mentoring, and coaching is required
  • Proficiency with SCADA systems, SEL Relays, Siemens SIPROTEC relays, Industrial network configuration including PRP, and at least one vPAC vendor/system.
  • Possesses effective written and oral communications skills
  • Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis
Working Conditions
Work Environment:
Work is performed in an office setting and some field work may be required
Travel:
Typical: 15 - 35%
Physical Activities:
Must be able to lift 25lbs.
About NEI Electric Power Engineering
Serving Others. Enriching Environment. Improving Continually. Quality Results. Voted as a top workplace by the Denver Post for seven straight years (2020-2026), our values have been woven into the fabric of who we are since 1982, guiding our decision making throughout the years. As an engineering services firm, NEI's mission is to create a great organization that serves people and solves problems.
Since NEI's founding, we have developed a culture of collaboration and accountability across our teams and departments, and externally with our clients across the United States. We believe in two core ideas: hiring great people and celebrating our team members diverse background and unique experiences; bringing in new, unique, and exciting perspectives that can only strengthen NEI as we chart out path into the future.
We are a proud equal opportunity employer and we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or genetic information.
Team Member Benefits
We believe that taking care of our team members is of the utmost importance. We strive to foster a community of belonging, professional development, and industry involvement; providing our team with the benefits, tools, and support systems to excel in their roles. Out comprehensive benefits package includes:
  • 100% Employer paid team member premiums for Medical, Dental, Vision, Basic Life Insurance, and Long-Term Disability
  • Voluntary Life Insurance
  • 401(k) with employer matching; 100% immediate vesting
  • Annual & discretionary bonus programs
  • Paid time off
  • Employer paid licensure (FE/PE), certifications, seminars, & conferences
  • Paid parental leave
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Eight (8) paid holidays including a floating holiday to use at your discretion
  • Annual Team Building
  • Hybrid work environment with remote flexibility
  • Career development, training, and coaching opportunities
  • Pet insurance

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