Freemanwhite

Sr. SCADA & Communication Engineer - Substation

Freemanwhite$100K — $130K *
Energy & Utilities
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering (ABET-accredited)
  • 8+ years in power system automation and SCADA integration
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred
  • Deep expertise in RTU, PLC, HMI configuration and SCADA protocols
  • Working knowledge of NERC CIP compliance and cybersecurity principles
  • Experience in supporting grid interconnection projects

Responsibilities

  • Lead design and implementation of substation SCADA systems
  • Develop network architectures for transmission substations and renewable plants
  • Engineer communication systems with multiple protocols
  • Generate comprehensive SCADA design packages
  • Configure and validate various RTUs and automation controllers
  • Ensure compliance with LGIA and NERC/FERC standards
  • Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance

Benefits

  • Opportunity to lead innovative SCADA projects
  • Exposure to cutting-edge technologies in utility grid modernization
  • Potential for professional development and PE licensure
  • Collaboration with major utility and renewable energy clients
  • Hybrid work environment allowing flexibility
Full Job Description
Overview

 

In this role, we are seeking a Senior Substation SCADA & Communication Engineer to lead the design, implementation, and integration of advanced communication systems for substation automation, SCADA, and telemetry across transmission and distribution networks. This role plays a critical part in utility grid modernization – ensuring secure, reliable, and standards-compliant control infrastructure for substations, renewable generation facilities, and grid interconnection points.

You will serve as the technical lead on SCADA and communication engineering projects, supporting major utility and renewable energy clients nationwide. The ideal candidate will have deep experience with RTU and PLC configuration, industrial communication protocols, grid interconnection, and regulatory compliance (NERC/FERC/LGIA).

 

Your Responsibilities will Include:

 

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.).

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.

To Thrive in This Role, You Will need:

  • 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.
  • Experience with PI Historian, EMS/SCADA database management, and alarm modeling.
  • 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; and 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.

 

#LI-Hybrid

#LI-S1

About Freemanwhite

Freemanwhite is an architecture, engineering, and design firm that provides services to healthcare, science and technology, and higher education clients. The company was founded in 1962 and is headquartered in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania. Freemanwhite has completed over 10,000 projects in 49 states and 20 countries. The firm's services include architecture, interior design, engineering, planning, and sustainability consulting. Freemanwhite is committed to sustainable design and has completed over 100 LEED certified projects. The company has received numerous awards for its work, including the American Institute of Architects (AIA) National Healthcare Design Award.
Learn more about Freemanwhite
Size
100 employees
Industry

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Freemanwhite

More Energy & Utilities Jobs

Find similar Sr. SCADA & Communication Engineer - Substation jobs: