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System Protection Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The System Protection Engineer acts as a technical leader and is responsible for the full scope of the design, development, and implementation of protective relay settings and coordination studies.

Four (4) year bachelor's degree in electrical engineering with a concentration in power system analysis, system protection and relay maintenance * Preferred: Registered Professional Engineer in the ...

System Protection Engineer

Decatur, IL · On-site

$71.10K - $137.20K/yr

About The Position The Engineer designs control and protection systems; determines protective relay and surge protection requirements; determines the specification of relay settings for the ...

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System Protection Engineer information

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$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do system protection engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for system protection engineer in the United States is $127,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a System Protection Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, power systems analysis, and relay coordination, often backed by a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with power system software such as ETAP, SEL AcSELerator, and experience with protective relays and SCADA systems are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear communication skills help you excel in troubleshooting and collaborating with operations teams. These competencies ensure the reliable and safe operation of electrical power grids, minimizing system failures and service interruptions.

What are some common challenges faced by System Protection Engineers in coordinating with operations and maintenance teams?

System Protection Engineers frequently collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to ensure reliable power system performance and quick response to faults. A common challenge is effectively communicating complex relay settings and protection schemes to non-engineering personnel, which requires clear documentation and training. Additionally, coordinating scheduled maintenance or testing without disrupting system reliability can be demanding, especially during peak demand periods. Effective teamwork and proactive planning are essential to overcome these challenges and maintain system integrity.

What does a System Protection Engineer do?

A System Protection Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining protection systems that safeguard electrical power systems from faults or abnormal conditions. Their main goal is to ensure the reliability and safety of the power grid by developing protection schemes and coordinating relays and circuit breakers. They also analyze system disturbances, conduct fault studies, and work closely with other engineers to resolve issues and improve system performance. This role is vital in preventing blackouts and minimizing damage to equipment.
More about System Protection Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for System Protection Engineer jobs? Cities with the most System Protection Engineer job openings:
What states have the most System Protection Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for System Protection Engineer jobs include:
System Protection Engineer

System Protection Engineer

Ulteig

Remote

Full-time

Posted 2 hours ago


Job description

The Opportunity
Ulteig is seeking qualified candidates for the position of System Protection Engineer. The System Protection Engineer acts as a technical leader and is responsible for the full scope of the design, development, and implementation of protective relay settings and coordination studies. Plans, schedules, conducts and/or coordinates detailed phases of assigned project work.
What You'll Do
Performs short-circuit and symmetrical component analysis, time-current coordination, step-distance coordination, relay settings development and coordination, test plan development, commissioning assistance, protection system event analysis and troubleshooting, and development of NERC PRC compliance reports. Protection scheme development includes transmission, distribution, generation, and renewable energy sources. Provides technical guidance to other engineers.
What We Expect from You
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering required. ABET accredited program or equivalent required
  • PE License or ability to obtain within 1 year required.
  • 4+ years of engineering experience
  • Proven experience in system modeling and fault analysis software (ASPEN, CAPE, ETAP, or EasyPower), and Microsoft Software Applications (Word, Excel, Power Point, and Access). Experience with Mathcad is a plus.
  • Strong knowledge in system modeling, relay coordination studies, and development of associated protective relay settings for systems ranging from 12.47 kV to 345 kV is required. Experience with 500 kV and 765 kV systems is a plus.
  • Experience applying protection system engineering practices and principles in one or more of the following areas: transmission line, bus, transformer, capacitor bank, reactor bank, feeder, generator, motor, and communication assisted protection schemes
  • Familiar with application of NERC PRC standards for compliance
  • Master's Degree in Engineering is a plus
  • On site commissioning, relay testing, and/or construction support is a plus
  • IEEE Power System Relaying and Control Committee membership is a plus
  • Proficient with substation protection and control design and industry standards is a plus
  • Ability to review and produce design drawings, including one-line diagrams, AC/DC schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel elevations is a plus
  • Capable of substation SCADA, communications, and network engineering a plus
  • Knowledge of substation electrical physical (apparatus) equipment a plus
  • Knowledge of National Electrical Code (NEC) a plus.
  • Ability to work in a high-paced team environment
  • Must have a valid driver's license, or ability to obtain prior to starting date
  • Must have permanent authorization to work in the US

As you consider applying for a position at Ulteig, we encourage you to think outside the box - because we do! You might not meet 100% of the skills listed in a description, but we are committed to hiring people with exceptional talent, ability and potential, and then creating an environment where they can become the best versions of themselves. We don't want to miss out on the possibility of speaking with the next outstanding Ulteig team member, so please apply if you think this role is a great match for your unique skills and strengths. And, yes, relevant military experience is absolutely considered for transitioning service members.
What You Can Expect from Ulteig
Ulteig is a purpose driven organization that has built a culture focused on people - both our clients and our employees -for over 80 years. Working at Ulteig is more than a job, opening opportunities to make an impact by creating and solving for a sustainable future. We recognize our success relies heavily on the dedication and focus of our workforce; this is why we make investing in our employees a top priority. We prioritize flexibility and staying connected to meet your needs and help you achieve your goals. We value your unique perspective, respect your individuality and celebrate your contributions. At Ulteig, we take our own success and the success of our clients personally.
We offer our team members:• Flexible Workplace
• Employee Ownership
• Competitive Pay
• Comprehensive Benefits Package
• Collaborative Environment
• Innovative Culture
Our vision is to be the most trusted partners transforming our world's critical infrastructure. Ulteig connects people and resources to develop compelling, integrated solutions across multiple Lifeline Sectors®, including Power, Renewables, Transportation and Water. Ulteig is a trusted partner in engineering North America's essential infrastructure and leverages its expertise with a wide range of public and private clients.
At Ulteig, we care deeply about our team, listening to their needs and ensuring they have the tools necessary to be productive whether they choose to work remotely, hybrid or in office. Regardless of where you work, you are empowered to build a workday that best suits your strengths. We strive to ensure a balance and separation between home and work life. We support a flexible working schedule so employees are able to focus on what's important to them.
If you would like to be a part of a company that empowers their employees, apply today!
Ulteig is a Drug Free Workplace
ACHIEVE | GROW | COLLABORATE
Additional Opportunity Details:
Target Base Compensation Range for this role is $111,200 - $150,400
* Factors that may be used to determine your actual salary include your job specific skills, education, training, job location, number of years of experience related to this role and comparison to other employees already in this role
This position will be posted for a minimum of 3 days and will continue to be posted for an average of 60 days until a qualified applicant is selected or the position has been cancelled.
Notice to Recruiters and Staffing Agencies: to protect the interests of all parties, Ulteig Engineers, Inc., will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate or an approved vendor that has a written and signed agreement in place with Ulteig. Please do not contact or forward resumes to our company employees or locations. Any unsolicited resumes will be considered Ulteig property. Ulteig is not responsible for any charges or fees related to unsolicited resumes.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.