Substation Automation Engineer
Location: Corpus Christi, TX
Job Type: Direct Hire
Company: TRC Talent Solutions
Salary: $90,000 - $120,000 Per Year
Category: Manufacturing
Job Description Apply Now
Join a leading power systems manufacturer as a Substation Automation Engineer, where you will play an integral role in the design, implementation, and commissioning of advanced substation automation, protection, and control systems. This full-time opportunity provides a chance to work within a highly specialized Power Systems Engineering team, supporting grid modernization projects that shape the future of utility infrastructure. The Substation Automation Engineer role offers significant exposure to the latest technologies in medium- and high-voltage environments, contributing directly to the reliability and efficiency of transmission and distribution networks.
As a Substation Automation Engineer, you will lead project execution from initial design through field commissioning, ensuring the delivery of robust and scalable automation solutions. Your responsibilities will span across RTU/PLC configuration, IEC 61850-based systems, and complex utility communication protocols, supporting the full project lifecycle. This position also includes technical leadership responsibilities, giving you the opportunity to guide junior engineers and collaborate closely with customers throughout each project phase.
The Substation Automation Engineer position requires up to 75% travel, offering dynamic work environments and the chance to engage directly with clients and project sites. You will be the primary technical point of contact for customers, managing expectations and providing expert support on automation and protection systems. The organization values your ability to interpret technical schematics, develop functional design documentation, and execute rigorous testing procedures to ensure system integrity.
Working as a Substation Automation Engineer allows you to expand your expertise with industry-leading platforms such as Siemens, GE, SEL, and ABB, while integrating solutions across multi-vendor environments. The role includes preparing and executing Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT), troubleshooting on-site issues, and supporting the integration of new and legacy systems. With a strong focus on technical excellence, this position is ideal for professionals seeking challenging projects and career growth in the rapidly evolving power systems sector.
The employer is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace, supporting the professional development of all team members. As a Substation Automation Engineer, you will advance your career while contributing to mission-critical infrastructure projects. If you are passionate about engineering innovation and thrive in a collaborative, field-oriented environment, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity today by clicking the job application button below.
Substation Automation Engineer - Summary- Work with a leading power systems manufacturer specializing in grid modernization for utility environments.
- Key member of the Power Systems Engineering team, focused on substation automation and protection solutions.
- Direct involvement in full project lifecycle from design through field commissioning.
- Technical leadership and 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 documents.
- 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 mentor junior team members.
- Serve as the primary technical contact for customers throughout the project lifecycle.
- Troubleshoot protection, control, and communication system issues in the field.
- Support system integration across multi-vendor environments (Siemens, GE, SEL, ABB).
- Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and expertise.
- Comprehensive benefits offered by the employer, designed to support your well-being and professional growth.
- Opportunities for career advancement and technical skill development in a dynamic power systems engineering environment.
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Electronic, or Computer Engineering (or a related field).
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in power automation or substation engineering.
- Proven 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 such as IEC 61850 (MMS, GOOSE, SMV), DNP3, Modbus, IEC 101/103/104, Profinet, and Profibus.
- Hands-on experience with substation commissioning and field testing (FAT/SAT).
- Strong networking knowledge, including design, configuration, and troubleshooting of Layer 2/Layer 3 devices.
- Willingness to travel up to 75% depending on project demands.
- Detail-oriented and analytical problem-solver with a passion for power systems engineering.
- Excellent communication skills for effective customer engagement and team leadership.
- Adaptable, eager to learn, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, field-based environment.
- Values technical excellence and is proactive in resolving complex engineering challenges.
- This position offers a unique chance to work with top-tier utility clients and multi-vendor systems.
- Significant travel provides exposure to diverse projects and professional networking opportunities.
- The employer is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.
- If you are ready to make an impact in the power systems industry and advance your engineering career, apply now by clicking the job application button.