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Substation Protection Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Substation Protection & Control Engineer 2

Lisle, IL · On-site

$97K - $123K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position will perform substation and protection and controls design, technical guidance/training/mentoring of staff, design reviews, QA/QC review, and enforcement related to all aspects of ...

Substation Protection & Control Engineer 2

Lisle, IL · On-site

$97K - $123K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position will perform substation and protection and controls design, technical guidance/training/mentoring of staff, design reviews, QA/QC review, and enforcement related to all aspects of ...

Substation Protection & Control Engineer 2

Lisle, IL · On-site

$97K - $123K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position will perform substation and protection and controls design, technical guidance/training/mentoring of staff, design reviews, QA/QC review, and enforcement related to all aspects of ...

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Showing results 1-20

Substation Protection information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$35K

$107.8K

$157.1K

How much do substation protection jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for substation protection in Chicago, IL is $107,757.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,600.00 and $139,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get into substation protection?

To pursue a career in substation protection, candidates typically need a background in electrical engineering or a related field, along with knowledge of power systems and protective relays. Relevant certifications, such as those in electrical safety or relay settings, can enhance job prospects. Entry-level positions often require hands-on experience or apprenticeships in electrical substations.

What is substation protection?

Substation protection involves installing devices and systems to detect and isolate faults in electrical substations, ensuring reliable power delivery and preventing equipment damage. It includes protective relays, circuit breakers, and control systems that work together to quickly respond to abnormal conditions. Proper training and adherence to safety standards are essential for substation protection roles.
Infographic showing various Substation Protection job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 66% In-person, and 34% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,757 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

Substation Protection & Controls Engineer

Valdes Architecture & Engineering

Lombard, IL • On-site

$100K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 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

$100,000 - $165,000 a year
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.
EEO/AAE
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.