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System Protection Engineer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

System Protection Engineer

Texas City, TX ยท On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

System Protection Engineer II - IV / Principal Engineer Position Type: Full-Time Benefits * Competitive salary based on experience * Medical, dental, and vision insurance * 401(k) with company match

... Protection Group Engineer IV . Perform and review System studies including Short Circuit ... Perform Failure Analysis and Troubleshooting for complex power system issues. Develop scope, price ...

... Protection Group Engineer IV . Perform and review System studies including Short Circuit ... Perform Failure Analysis and Troubleshooting for complex power system issues. Develop scope, price ...

Senior Electrical Protection Engineer

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$89K - $116K/yr

Develop study assumptions, validate system data, and document study conclusions in a clear and ... protection engineering, relay settings, power system studies, and commissioning support.

Senior Electrical Protection Engineer

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$89K - $116K/yr

Develop study assumptions, validate system data, and document study conclusions in a clear and ... protection engineering, relay settings, power system studies, and commissioning support.

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Showing results 1-20

System Protection Engineer information

See Texas salary details

$49.8K

$118.5K

$155.6K

How much do system protection engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for system protection engineer in Texas is $118,520.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,300.00 and $146,300.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to System Protection Engineer jobs in Texas? For System Protection Engineer jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching System Protection Engineer jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for System Protection Engineer jobs in Texas are:
Infographic showing various System Protection Engineer job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,520 per year, or $57 per hour.
System Protection Engineer

System Protection Engineer

VIP Staffing

Texas City, TX โ€ข On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

System Protection Engineer II - IV / Principal Engineer

Position Type: Full-Time

Benefits

  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Company-funded retirement contribution
  • Sign-on bonus and/or relocation assistance may be available

Position Summary

We are seeking a System Protection Engineer to perform complex engineering work involving the design, analysis, implementation, and maintenance of power system protection schemes. This role is responsible for ensuring the reliability, safety, and compliance of electric power systems while providing technical leadership and support across engineering and field operations.

Position level (Engineer II, III, IV, or Principal Engineer) will be determined based on the selected candidate's education, experience, and qualifications.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform short circuit, overcurrent, and distance coordination studies using ASPEN OneLiner or similar software.
  • Develop, calculate, and maintain protective relay settings for new and existing electrical systems.
  • Analyze system disturbances and develop corrective action plans to improve system reliability.
  • Support compliance with applicable NERC Protection and Control (PRC) and Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards.
  • Review protection system one-line diagrams, AC/DC schematics, wiring diagrams, and relay design documentation.
  • Ensure engineering work complies with applicable industry standards, regulatory requirements, and company procedures.
  • Provide technical guidance and troubleshooting support to field personnel.
  • Mentor and train junior engineers and technical staff.
  • Participate in engineering peer reviews and quality assurance processes.
  • Communicate technical recommendations and engineering solutions to internal stakeholders and leadership.
  • Contribute to the development and improvement of engineering standards and best practices.
  • Provide technical oversight for contractors and project teams as needed.
  • Maintain a strong commitment to safety while performing all assigned duties.

Qualifications

Required

  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Engineering from an ABET-accredited institution.
  • Experience level determines engineering classification:
    • Engineer II: 2+ years of engineering experience (or 1+ year with an FE certification or Master's degree)
    • Engineer III: 4+ years of engineering experience (or 3+ years with an FE certification or Master's degree)
    • Engineer IV: 5โ€“7 years of engineering experience
    • Principal Engineer: 10+ years of engineering experience (9+ years with a Master's degree); Professional Engineer (PE) license required
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Preferred

  • Power Systems Engineering specialization or advanced degree.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license.
  • Experience using ASPEN OneLiner, CAPE, or similar power system analysis software.

Knowledge & Skills

  • Strong understanding of power system protection principles and relay coordination.
  • Knowledge of transmission, distribution, and generation systems.
  • Familiarity with IEEE, ANSI, NEC, NESC, and other applicable engineering standards.
  • Ability to interpret one-line diagrams, electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
  • Experience applying engineering principles to improve power system reliability.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and decision-making skills.
  • Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
  • Self-motivated with strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
  • Comfortable working around high-voltage electrical equipment up to 345kV.

Computer Skills

  • Proficiency with electrical engineering analysis and design software.
  • Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel.

Work Environment

This position is primarily office-based with periodic field work supporting high-voltage electrical facilities and construction sites. Field work may require walking, climbing, lifting up to 50 pounds, bending, crouching, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when working in the field.

Additional Requirements

Candidates may be required to successfully complete:

  • Criminal background check
  • Identity verification
  • Credit check (where applicable)
  • Cybersecurity training and ongoing compliance requirements, depending on the position

Company Description

VIP Staffing is a regional staffing company specializing in filling temporary, temp-to-hire and permanent placement positions. We command excellence from our employees, provide superior customer service, support generous community involvement all while strengthening our position as a leader and innovator in the staffing industry
Clients of VIP Staffing experience proven results due to the tenure of our corporate staff and the companyโ€™s longevity in the marketplace. We positively impact our customerโ€™s bottom line by analyzing their goals and timelines with an emphasis on productivity.

VIP Staffing logo

About VIP Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

VIP Staffing is an elite service specializing in providing temporary, temp-to-hire and permanent placement positions for employers in Texas and New Mexico. Our tight regional focus and dedicated professional team ensure choice staffing solutions for our customers.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

San Antonio, TX, US

Year founded

1969

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