Power Systems Automation Engineer

TRC Talent Solutions is partnering with a leading power systems manufacturer specializing in transmission and distribution infrastructure. The organization delivers advanced substation automation, protection, and control solutions for medium- and high-voltage utility environments. This role sits within the Power Systems Engineering team and supports mission-critical grid modernization projects.

Summary

This position is responsible for the design, implementation, testing, and commissioning of substation automation and protection systems. The engineer will work across RTU/PLC configurations, IEC 61850-based systems, and complex communication networks while supporting full project lifecycle execution from design through field commissioning. The role also includes technical leadership and direct customer engagement.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain automation systems for medium- and high-voltage substations

• Configure and test RTU and PLC systems for protection and control schemes

• Develop applications using IEC 61850 and related communication protocols

• Create and maintain functional design documentation including:

  • Control logic diagrams

  • Network architecture diagrams

  • Signal lists and engineering documentation

• Prepare and execute Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT)

• Support on-site commissioning and troubleshooting of substation automation systems

• Lead technical execution of assigned projects and guide junior team members

• Serve as primary technical contact for customers throughout project lifecycle

• Troubleshoot protection, control, and communication system issues in the field

• Support system integration across multi-vendor environments (Siemens, GE, SEL, ABB)

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Electronic, or Computer Engineering (or related field)

• 5+ years of experience in power automation or substation engineering

• Experience as a technical lead on engineering projects

• Strong ability to interpret AC/DC schematics and one-line/three-line diagrams

• Advanced experience with substation automation platforms (Siemens, GE, SEL, ABB, etc.)

• Deep understanding of communication protocols including IEC 61850 (MMS, GOOSE, SMV), DNP3, Modbus, IEC 101/103/104, Profinet, Profibus

• Experience with substation commissioning and field testing (FAT/SAT)

• Strong networking knowledge (design, configuration, troubleshooting of Layer 2/Layer 3 devices)

• Willingness to travel 50–75% depending on project demands