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.
  • Lead the development of integrated solutions by interfacing with internal protection, automation, substation physical, and IT cybersecurity teams.
• 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.
  • Drive innovation through continuous improvement in tools, processes, and emerging technologies (AI-based diagnostics, digital twins, etc.).

Qualifications

• 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 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.
• 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, Experience supporting grid interconnection projects, including familiarity with LGIA, telemetry validation, and control logic for renewable assets, Familiarity with NERC, FERC, and utility interconnection requirements, 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.