5-8 years of experience in relay/protection engineering or a related field
B.S. in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology
Proficient with utility engineering software such as ASPEN, SKM, EasyPower, or ETAP
Hands-on experience with programming protection relays and substation equipment
Strong understanding of engineering practices, NERC requirements, and communication protocols like IEC 61850/GOOSE
Registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) or Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification
Responsibilities
Develop and review Protection & Control settings designs
Perform coordination and short-circuit studies
Conduct event analysis for system reliability
Create and review HMI configurations and RTU design packages
Lead engineering projects and interface with customers
Provide mentorship and training for junior staff
Deliver field support including troubleshooting and testing
Benefits
Medical, dental, and vision coverage starting on day one
Retirement plan for future security
Company-provided life insurance and supplemental options
Long-term disability coverage and legal assistance
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for well-being
Generous paid time off policies including holidays
Access to employee discounts and resources
Full Job Description
Description
Lead Electrical Engineer - Protection & Control
Role Overview
Asplundh Engineering Services is seeking a Lead Electrical Engineer with expertise in Utility Protection & Control to join our growing team in Boonton, New Jersey. In this role, you will lead the design, analysis, and implementation of critical protection and control systems that support safe and reliable operation of the electric grid. Working alongside a team of experienced engineers and utility professionals, you'll provide technical leadership, mentor junior engineers, and deliver innovative solutions for transmission, distribution, and substation projects throughout their entire lifecycle. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced engineer who enjoys solving complex challenges, building client relationships, and making a lasting impact on the future of power infrastructure.
How You Will Make an Impact
Lead the development, review, and implementation of Protection & Control settings, relay designs, and engineering packages for utility and substation projects.
Perform short-circuit, coordination, and system protection studies utilizing industry-standard engineering software.
Develop and review HMI configurations, RTU settings, relay logic, communication systems, and network architecture for substation automation projects.
Manage engineering projects, coordinate technical deliverables, and ensure compliance with client standards, NERC requirements, and industry best practices.
Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and professional development support to junior engineers and project team members.
Serve as a key customer contact by providing engineering expertise, technical consultation, troubleshooting support, and project coordination.
Support project commissioning, testing, troubleshooting, and field activities while ensuring safe, high-quality project execution.
What You Will Bring
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology.
5+ years of experience in Protection & Control Engineering, Relay Engineering, or Power Systems Engineering.
Professional Engineer (PE) license or Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification preferred.
Experience with protection relays and substation equipment including SEL, GE, Beckwith, and related technologies.
Proficiency with power system analysis software such as ASPEN, SKM, ETAP, EasyPower, or similar platforms.
Strong knowledge of utility protection schemes, substation systems, NERC requirements, and industry engineering practices.
Experience with IEC-61850, GOOSE communications, substation automation, telecommunications integration, or SCADA systems is preferred.
Excellent communication, leadership, project management, and client relationship skills.
Work Environment & Preferences
Work Model: Hybrid
Preferred Schedule: Monday-Friday business hours with flexibility based on project needs
Travel Requirements: Occasional travel to customer sites, substations, and project locations as required
Physical Requirements: Ability to work in both office and field environments, including occasional visits to substations and industrial facilities; ability to walk, stand, climb stairs, and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) when visiting project sites.
