Protection & Control Engineer
About NEEC
National Electrical Engineering Consultants (NEEC) LLC provides complete engineering, commissioning, and field services for utilities and renewable energy developers nationwide. With expertise in Protection & Control (P&C) Substations, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), and Renewable Integration, NEEC delivers innovative, safe, and reliable electrical solutions that power the nation’s clean energy future.
TRAVEL REQUIRED – MULTI-STATE ROLE
This position requires frequent travel to project sites across multiple states. Applicants must be willing and able to travel as needed.
Position Overview
The Protection & Control (P&C) Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and implementation of electrical protection and control systems for high-voltage substations and renewable energy projects. This role ensures the reliable and secure operation of transmission and distribution systems by designing protective relay schemes, control logic, and communication interfaces that meet utility and industry standards. The P&C Engineer works closely with project teams, field personnel, and utility clients to deliver high-quality engineering solutions from concept through commissioning.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop protection and control (P&C) systems for substation and renewable projects, including one-line diagrams, three-line diagrams, AC/DC schematics, and wiring diagrams.
- Prepare relay protection and control logic, control schematics, and interconnection drawings for new and existing substations.
- Specify and configure protective relays (SEL, GE, ABB, Siemens, etc.), metering, and communication equipment.
- Develop and review relay settings and coordination studies using short-circuit and protection coordination software (ETAP, Aspen, CAPE, etc.).
- Support commissioning and field testing teams by providing technical guidance and reviewing test results.
- Ensure compliance with NERC, IEEE, IEC, and utility-specific standards for design and protection.
- Coordinate with civil, structural, and physical electrical teams to integrate protection and control systems into complete substation designs.
- Prepare as-built documentation, control panel layouts, cable schedules, and bill of materials.
- Conduct peer reviews and quality checks to ensure the accuracy and reliability of deliverables.
- Provide technical support to utility clients during design reviews, system upgrades, and fault investigations.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
- 3-7 years of experience in protection and control system design, preferably within a utility or EPC environment.
- Strong knowledge of power system protection principles, including overcurrent, differential, distance, and breaker failure schemes.
- Proficiency with relay configuration software (AcSELerator, Enervista, DIGSI, etc.) and drafting/design tools (AutoCAD, MicroStation).
- Understanding of SCADA systems, RTUs, and communication protocols (Modbus, DNP3, IEC 61850).
- Familiarity with industry codes and standards (IEEE, ANSI, NERC, NEC).
- Excellent attention to detail and documentation skills.
- Strong communication and teamwork abilities to coordinate with multi-discipline teams.
Preferred Skills
- Experience with utility-scale renewable projects (Solar + Storage, Wind + BESS).
- Working knowledge of relay coordination software (ETAP, Aspen OneLiner, or CAPE).
- Familiarity with commissioning and field testing procedures.
- PE license or EIT certification preferred.
- OSHA 10/30 or NFPA 70E training a plus.
Work Environment
This role may include both office-based design work and field support at substations or renewable energy sites. Occasional travel is required to support commissioning, troubleshooting, or client meetings.
What We Offer- Competitive compensation
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) plan with company match
- Paid time off and Holidays
- Professional development programs and leadership training
- A dynamic, growth-oriented environment committed to innovation and excellence
NEEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.