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System Protection Engineer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Senior Protection Engineer

Houston, TX

$86K - $119K/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.

... 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 Protection Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$95K - $130K/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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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 Jun 20, 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 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:
Associate Project Engineer - Protection

$110K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Power System Protection Engineer to join our Engineering Services team. As a Power System Protection Engineer, you will be responsible for ensuring the reliable and secure operation of power systems by designing, testing, implementing, and effective protection and control schemes. Your expertise in relay protection and controls, relay coordination, and power systems will provide solutions and services that help our customers protect and control critical electrical infrastructure and power systems worldwide.

As a Protection Engineer, a typical day might include the following:

  • Design, develop, and implement protection and control schemes for power systems, including relay protection and control systems.
  • Create protective relay settings for transmission & distribution utilities, substations, and industrial clients.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including project managers, engineers, and technicians, to assess system requirements and implement protection strategies accordingly.
  • Lead in assigning, completing and implementing work within agreed upon scope, schedule and budget to a high level of quality and safety.
  • Perform system testing and commissioning activities to validate the functionality and performance of protection schemes.
  • Following and applying SEL Values, Principles of Operations, and World Class Manufacturing Principles.

This job might be for you if:

  • You have a B.S. degree in electrical engineering or relevant discipline
  • You have a strong understanding of power system protection principles, relay protection and control schemes, and relay coordination techniques.
  • You are familiar with relevant industry standards, such as IEEE, IEC, and NERC/FERC regulations.
  • You have proven experience in designing and implementing protection and control schemes in a utility or industrial setting.
  • Demonstrated problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze complex power system protection challenges.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Professional Engineer License or equivalent certification
  • Electrical industrial plant, utility, consulting engineering, or system integrator experience
  • Project management experience

Don't miss this opportunity to make a difference in the electrical power industry. Join Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories and help shape the future of critical infrastructure!

Location Information:

Houston, TX-This position is located in Houston, TX. Ranked America's fourth largest city, whatever your interest you will find it here. Enjoy sports teams, world class dining, and first rate entertainment. Enjoy signature Houston attractions like Space Center Houston and The Grand Opera. Escape the city with easy beach access just one hour away. Houston offers exceptional schools and universities, making it a great place to live and work.

Competitive pay. Superior benefits. Inspiring work.

People are at the core of our company and we hire employee-owners. We welcome you to learn more about how we support employees.

  • We're 100% employee owned. Retirement benefits include an employer funded stock ownership plan (ESOP) and personal 401(k) options.

  • We offer top tier medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.

  • We recognize the importance of a healthy life balance and offer: 10 paid holidays, annual vacation accrual starting at 12 days, 9 paid sick days, and paid family and medical leave that covers 90% of your pay.

  • We foster growth and development of our employees through avenues such as STEM courses, apprenticeships, tuition assistance, and engineering development programs.

  • Ask our team about other benefits including wellness, fertility, adoption, and flexible spending benefits.

Pay Range Data

New hires generally start between $110,000 - 175,000. We base our starting pay offer on location and job-related factors such as candidate experience, training, knowledge, and skills. Our salary ranges are determined by job, responsibility, and location.

Communication with Applicants

We communicate with all applicants. If you do not receive a response about your application, please check your SPAMfilteror reach out to us at careers@selinc.com.

SEL is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled.


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