Senior Electrical Engineer Distribution Protection

Job Summary

Specify, design, and modify power system protection schemes and SCADA schemes. Develop protective relaying settings, and assist in the commissioning of Intelligent Grid Switching Devices (IGSDs) and/or Major Underground (MUG) equipment to maintain the reliability of the CNP electric system. Support distribution capital projects by evaluating protection concerns. Serve as a subject‑matter expert for various internal initiatives and evaluations. This position requires a Professional Engineer license in the State of Texas.

Responsibilities

• Develop protection schemes and specify relays for use in independent relaying systems, interacting with other engineering sections, equipment vendors, engineering firms, and operations personnel.
• Calculate and program protective relay set points, including for coordination purposes, for electromechanical and microprocessor relays and issue them to operations personnel.
• Design automation and SCADA systems; program relays, PLCs, and RTACs to ensure system visibility and functionality.
• Provide technical assistance with the evaluation and commissioning of new equipment for interconnection within the CNP electric system.
• Support field personnel in commissioning and troubleshooting existing equipment operations.
• Analyze concerns related to possible power‑quality issues for MUG customers.
• Analyze equipment operations and develop reports following system disturbances, using data obtained from microprocessor relays.
• Support the commissioning of new medium‑voltage customers.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited college or university.
• Minimum of four years of electric utility or power engineering experience, including engineering calculations and design.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license required; Texas PE license preferred.
• Proficiency with mathematics (trigonometry, calculus) for complex engineering design calculations.
• Ability to interpret, analyze, and produce electrical models, drawings, and technical documents.
• Knowledge of electrical theory and system operations applied to daily decisions.
• Capability to calculate system short‑circuit quantities using sequence networks.
• Experience using SAP and GIS for technical engineering applications.
• Familiarity with National Electric Code and National Electric Safety Code.
• Understanding of electric safety principles and ability to work safely around energized equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Certification and daily use of personal protective equipment (respirator, safety glasses, hard hat, gloves, protective footwear, earplugs).
• Manual dexterity to operate a personal computer and common office equipment.
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally, in person or via technical equipment.
• Occasional exertion of up to 10 lb of force; frequent minimal force for lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, or moving objects.
• Ability to sit, stand, or walk for long periods.

Working Conditions

• Participation in CenterPoint Energy’s Emergency Operation Plan (EOP).
• Daily operation of a motor vehicle in a safe manner; occasional overnight travel.
• Fast‑paced environment with both indoor office work and outdoor field installation sites (exposure to all weather conditions, equipment, and noise).

Benefits

• Competitive pay
• Paid training
• Benefits eligibility begins on the first day
• Transit subsidies
• Flexible work schedule, paid holidays, and paid time off
• Discounts at fitness clubs and an on‑site wellness center at the Houston headquarters
• Professional growth and development programs, including tuition reimbursement
• 401(k) Savings Plan with company match dollar‑for‑dollar up to 6 % and a company contribution of 3 %

Pay

Competitive pay.

Schedule

Flexible work schedule with paid holidays and paid time off.