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$62.5K

$113.6K

$149.5K

How much do substation automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for substation automation engineer in the United States is $113,627.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $125,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Substation Automation Engineer?

A Substation Automation Engineer is a specialized professional who designs, implements, and maintains automation systems for electrical substations. Their work involves integrating intelligent electronic devices (IEDs), communication networks, and control systems to ensure the efficient and reliable operation of substations. They are responsible for configuring protection and control schemes, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. This role is crucial for modernizing power grids and supporting remote monitoring and control of substations.

What is the difference between Substation Automation Engineer vs Power Systems Engineer?

AspectSubstation Automation EngineerPower Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, certifications in automation or control systemsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, often with power systems or related certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, implement, and maintain automation systems in substationsDesign and analyze power systems, including generation, transmission, and distribution
Employer & Industry UsageUtilities, energy companies, automation solution providersUtilities, consulting firms, power generation companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles related to substation automationUnderstanding roles in power system design and analysis

The Substation Automation Engineer focuses on designing and maintaining automation systems within electrical substations, ensuring efficient control and communication. In contrast, the Power Systems Engineer works on the broader electrical power network, including generation, transmission, and distribution systems. Both roles require electrical engineering backgrounds but differ in scope and specific responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by Substation Automation Engineers when integrating new technologies into existing power systems?

Substation Automation Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new technologies, such as ensuring compatibility between legacy equipment and modern digital solutions. Upgrading systems while minimizing downtime and maintaining safety standards requires careful planning and coordination with multiple teams, including IT, operations, and maintenance. Additionally, keeping up with evolving industry standards and cybersecurity requirements can be demanding, but these efforts are critical to ensuring reliable and secure substation operations. Collaborating closely with vendors and stakeholders helps streamline the integration process and address unexpected technical issues.

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

To thrive as a Substation Automation Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, power systems, and automation, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with SCADA systems, protection relays, IEC 61850 protocols, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are commonly required. Strong analytical skills, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help you excel in cross-functional project teams and client interactions. These skills ensure reliable substation operations, seamless integration of automation solutions, and enhanced power system performance.
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What job categories do people searching Substation Automation Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Substation Automation Engineer jobs are:
Substation Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substation Automation Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,627 per year, or $54.6 per hour.
Protective Relay and Automation Engineer I, II, III, and IV

Protective Relay and Automation Engineer I, II, III, and IV

Arizona G&T Cooperatives

Benson, AZ • On-site

$7K - $13K/mo

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Join Arizona G&T Cooperatives as a Protective Relay and Automation Engineer and immerse yourself in an exciting opportunity to shape the future of the energy sector. By leveraging innovative technologies, you will play a crucial role in enhancing system reliability and safety, pushing the boundaries of engineering excellence. Collaborate with a team of forward-thinking professionals who are dedicated to solving complex challenges and driving transformative advancements in energy automation. This position offers a unique chance to contribute to cutting-edge projects, impacting both local communities and the industry at large.
As part of a company that values integrity and smart solutions, you will find fulfillment in being at the forefront of energy innovation. Apply now to elevate your career while making a difference in the world.
PURPOSE: As a Protective Relay and Automation Engineer, your daily responsibilities will involve designing and implementing protective relay schemes for various electrical systems. You will conduct thorough analysis and testing of relay settings and automation protocols to ensure optimal performance. Collaborating closely with interdisciplinary teams, you will troubleshoot and resolve system issues while maintaining a strong focus on safety and compliance standards.
Documentation of relay configurations and system modifications will be essential, along with the preparation of reports and recommendations for system improvements. Regular engagement with field personnel will require you to provide technical support, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of our energy operations. Continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies will be expected as you contribute to ongoing projects that drive innovation within the organization.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering (Power Option preferable) from an accredited college or university
  • 0-2 years' experience in power system troubleshooting and design
  • Engineer-In-Training Certificate desirable
  • Familiarity with utility protective relaying application, control scheme design, electrical apparatus testing, relay testing, meter testing and substation automation/integration desirable
  • Knowledge of relaying and substation automation/integration communications desirable
  • Knowledge of ASPEN OneLiner (short circuit/coordination) and ASPEN Relay Database software desirable
  • Thorough understanding of word processing, spreadsheets and computer application in general
  • Effective oral and written communication skills
  • Effective team leadership and participant skills
  • Any equivalent combination of related education, training, and/or experience can be substituted for requirements listed above.
ESSENTIAL AND MARGINAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Perform short circuit and coordination studies within power delivery system, other utilities and member coop systems.
  • Manage short circuit/coordination and relay database software.
  • Manage an in-house relay committee, consisting of members from Operations and Maintenance, to review and approve all relay applications and settings, evaluate new products and review system outages for proper relay operations.
  • Serve as AzG&T representative on regional protective relaying operating and coordinating committees such as SWAT SCWG.
  • Provide project team engineering support by preparing project technical specifications, drawings, programming, procurement and construction documents for substation automation/integration equipment as required.
  • Develop, with the assistance of the Project Services Administrators, cost/benefit analyses and project estimates and costs for substation automation/integration equipment.
  • Provide engineering design and commissioning assistance as required.
  • Assist Planning Engineers with preparing planning studies and fault analyses.
  • Support System Engineer and Field Engineers in analyzing system disturbance faults.
  • Continue the system review effort to improve the reliability of the system to minimize relay miss-operation.
  • Provide engineering support to maintenance craft personnel and System Operations in optimizing the operation of the power delivery system.
  • Provide technical support to substation engineering group regarding relay protection design.
  • Manages changes and evidence related to NERC procedures and controls for delegated requirements.
  • Manages changes and evidence related to NERC RSAWs including the narrative and evidence of the compliance for delegated requirements.
  • Performs primary interviewee functions related to NERC compliance audits for delegated requirements.

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