The Lead Relay Technician (Protection and Control) leads the testing and commissioning of protection, control, and SCADA systems for new substations, from 34.5 kV collector substations through 345 kV transmission interconnections. This role serves as the on-site technical lead, directing contract test crews and junior technicians, coordinating with SCADA vendors and utility personnel, and ensuring systems are tested, documented, and ready for safe energization. This is a field-based position requiring travel of more than 75% to project sites, often for extended periods.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: - Lead protection and control testing and commissioning for 34.5 kV collector substations through 345 kV transmission interconnections
- Perform and direct testing of microprocessor-based relays from SEL, Siemens, and other manufacturers using Doble and/or Omicron test equipment
- Review relay settings, schematics, AC/DC elementaries, and wiring diagrams; identify discrepancies and maintain redlines
- Perform and oversee CT and PT testing, wiring verification, trip checks, and functional testing of protection schemes, including differential, distance, and breaker failure
- Perform point-to-point checkout of SCADA and communications systems and coordinate with SCADA vendors during device commissioning
- Coordinate with utility relay engineers and personnel for end-to-end testing, interconnection requirements, and energization
- Direct the daily work of contract test crews and junior technicians, and review their test results for accuracy and completeness
- Prepare and review test reports, commissioning documentation, and as-built markups for project turnover
- Support energization activities and troubleshoot protection, control, and communications issues
- Follow and enforce safe work practices, including NFPA 70E, lockout/tagout, and site safety requirements
- Maintain assigned tools, test equipment, PPE, and company-issued materials in good working condition
- Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor
Education and/or Work Experience Requirements: - High school diploma or GED
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in protective relay testing and substation commissioning
- Experience with protection schemes for 34.5 kV collector substations through 345 kV transmission interconnections, including feeder, transformer, and bus differential, line differential, distance, and breaker failure schemes
- Hands-on experience testing and commissioning microprocessor-based relays from SEL, Siemens, and other manufacturers, using test equipment such as Doble and/or Omicron
- Working knowledge of substation SCADA and communications systems, including RTUs, DNP3, and fiber networks, with the ability to perform point-to-point checkout and verify integration with protection systems
- NFPA 70E qualified electrical worker training and OSHA 10 certification
- PGS provides additional safety and technical training on an as-needed basis
- Valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record
- Associate's degree in electrical or electronics technology, or equivalent military training
- NETA Level III or IV certification
- Experience with IEC 61850 and coordinating with SCADA vendors during commissioning
- OSHA 30 certification
Physical Requirements/Work Environment: This role requires the following, with or without reasonable accommodation:
Field- Works outdoors at project sites, with exposure to weather elements, including heat, cold, rain, and wind
- Walks and stands for extended periods on uneven terrain
- Climbs, kneels, crouches, stoops, and reaches
- Lifts and carries up to 60 pounds
- Works around noise, dust, moving equipment, and energized electrical equipment
- Wears required personal protective equipment (PPE), such as a hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, and safety-toe boots
- Travels between project sites, which may include operating a vehicle
- Works extended hours, nights, and weekends as needed to support testing and energization schedules
- Works in substation control enclosures and around high-voltage switchyard equipment
Perks and Benefits: we offer medical/dental/vision insurance plans, PTO, and 401K with a company matching portion.
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