Automation Commissioning Engineer

About the role

The Automation Commissioning Engineer is responsible for the testing, integration, and commissioning of substation automation systems, with a strong focus on Hitachi Energy MicroSCADA and IEC 61850-based solutions. This role ensures that automation systems are installed, configured, and validated according to project specifications, safety standards, and customer requirements. The position involves on-site work and collaboration with engineering teams, project managers, and customers.

Responsibilities

• Perform Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT) for substation automation systems.
• Configure and test SCADA systems, HMI interfaces, and RTU logic.
• Validate communication protocols (IEC 61850, Modbus, DNP3, GOOSE) and ensure interoperability.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues during commissioning and start-up phases.
• Prepare and execute detailed commissioning plans and procedures.
• Conduct point-to-point testing, alarm/event verification, and control command validation.
• Verify system behavior under redundancy conditions (PRP/HSR networks, redundant servers/gateways).
• Integrate automation systems with protection and control schemes.
• Configure MicroSCADA applications and ensure proper system functionality.
• Verify system performance and compliance with cybersecurity requirements.
• Support integration of IEC 61850 SCL files (ICD/CID/SCD) and automated dataset/report configuration.
• Prepare commissioning reports, test records, and as-built documentation.
• Maintain accurate logs of system configurations and changes.
• Report non-conformances into TMT tool and support resolution and documentation of corrective actions.
• Work closely with project managers, engineers, and customers during commissioning phases.
• Provide technical support and training to customers and site personnel.
• Participate in meetings to discuss commissioning progress and resolve issues.
• Ensure all commissioning activities comply with company HSE policies and site safety requirements.
• Promote a culture of safety and integrity during on-site work.
• Participate in daily toolbox talks, risk assessments, and LOTO procedures as applicable.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or related field.
• 3–7 years of experience in commissioning substation automation systems.
• Hands-on experience with Hitachi Energy MicroSCADA and IEC 61850 configuration.
• Strong knowledge of SCADA systems, communication protocols, and networking.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity standards for automation systems.
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to travel extensively for on-site commissioning.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively with customers and multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience with tools such as IEC 61850 analyzers, gateway configuration platforms, and test instrumentation (OMICRON CMC, Doble etc.) considered an asset.

Benefits

• Health Care (medical, dental, vision, etc.)
• Financial Wellbeing: Employer-sponsored pension (401(k) Program with generous company match and contribution), Life/AD&D Insurance, disability insurance
• Family Care: Life and Family (Legal, pet, auto, home, identity theft, etc.), special needs support, and adoption assistance
• Work-Life: Enhanced leave programs (FMLA, Military Service Leave, Maternal, Paternal, adoption, vacation, and holiday)
• Employee Engagement and Development: Employee Resource Groups (depending on location), tuition reimbursement program, on-demand learning platforms