Sr. SCADA & Communication Engineer - Substation

Responsibilities

• System Design & Engineering
• Lead the design and implementation of substation SCADA systems, including RTUs, HMIs, PLCs, data concentrators, I/O devices, and communication processors.
• Develop network architectures and communication topologies (LAN/WAN, fiber, microwave, serial) for transmission substations, renewable plants, and control centers.
• Engineer communication systems that utilize Modbus, DNP3, IEC 61850, Ethernet/IP, and other standard protocols.
• Generate complete SCADA design packages, including:
• SCADA block diagrams
• Panel layout and equipment drawings
• Schematics and wiring diagrams
• Points lists and device mapping
• Bill of Materials (BOM)
• Settings files for RTUs/PLCs/switches/firewalls
• Network diagrams and addressing plans
• Project Execution & Commissioning
• Configure and validate RTUs (e.g., SEL, GE/Harris, NovaTech), IEDs, HMIs, and automation controllers.
• Perform system testing and field commissioning—including end-to-end SCADA point verification, communication diagnostics, and live troubleshooting.
• Serve as the primary technical contact for utilities, grid operators (e.g., ISO/RTOs), and interconnection stakeholders during grid testing, energization, and regulatory compliance.
• Support construction teams during buildout and assist with resolution of field integration issues.
• Compliance & Cybersecurity
• Ensure all SCADA and communication systems adhere to LGIA, utility interconnection, and NERC/FERC requirements.
• Implement cybersecurity best practices and apply NERC CIP requirements during design and deployment of SCADA infrastructure.
• Maintain comprehensive system documentation, including device configurations, change logs, test reports, and compliance evidence.
• Leadership & Technical Guidance
• Mentor junior engineers and act as technical lead on multi-disciplinary project teams.
• Provide SCADA/communications technical input during proposal development and bid reviews.
• Interface with internal protection, automation, substation physical, and IT cybersecurity teams to deliver integrated solutions.
• Drive innovation through continuous improvement in tools, processes, and emerging technologies (AI-based diagnostics, digital twins, etc.).

Requirements

• Education & Years of Experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field (ABET-accredited).
• 8+ years of experience in power system automation, SCADA integration, and substation communication system design.
• Professional Experience
• Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred or the ability to obtain within a reasonable time.
• Proven expertise in:
• RTU/PLC/HMI configuration (e.g., SEL RTAC, GE D20, NovaTech Orion, Schneider PLCs)
• SCADA protocols: DNP3 (serial and TCP/IP), Modbus, IEC 61850/GOOSE
• Communication media: Fiber optics, microwave radio, serial, Ethernet
• SCADA software platforms: SEL AcSELerator, GE Enervista, WinCC, Survalent, OSIsoft PI, Wonderware, etc.
• Technical Skills
• Working knowledge of:
• Substation protection & control (P&C) schemes and related data interfaces
• NERC CIP compliance and substation cybersecurity principles
• Network configuration, firewalls, and secure device access
• Additional Experience
• Familiarity with NERC, FERC, and utility interconnection requirements
• Experience supporting grid interconnection projects, including familiarity with LGIA, telemetry validation, and control logic for renewable assets
• Experience with substation communication system modeling tools (e.g., PathLoss, RadioSoft, or equivalent)
• Experience with renewable energy SCADA systems, collector substations, and DERMS integration
• Prior utility consulting, EPC, or grid operator experience is strongly valued.

Environmental Factors and/or Physical Requirements

• While performing the duties of this job, this position is required to have ordinary ambulatory skills sufficient to visit other locations;
• The ability to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, and manipulate (lift, carry, move) light to medium weights of 10-50 pounds.
• Requires good hand-eye coordination, and arm, hand and finger dexterity, including the ability to grasp, and visual acuity to use a keyboard, operate equipment and read application/form information.
• The associate frequently is required to sit, reach with hands and arms, talk, and hear.