Senior Protection and Control Specialist
We are seeking an experienced Senior Protection and Control Specialist to lead the configuration, testing, and commissioning of protection relays across medium-voltage to 400-kilovolt substations.
Main Responsibilities:
* Configure, test, and commission protection relays (Siemens, SEL, ABB, GE, Schneider) across medium-voltage to 400-kilovolt substations.
* Utilize advanced testing tools to validate relay settings, logic schemes, and fault simulations.
* Support the design and implementation of IEC 61850, including GOOSE messaging, client/server communication, and digital signal mapping.
* Conduct grid fault analysis, including short-circuit analysis, and protection coordination using ETAP, DIgSILENT, or PSCAD.
* Collaborate with design, commissioning, and client teams to ensure high standards in system performance, compliance, and documentation.
* Drive standardization and continuous improvement in protection settings, testing methodologies, and fault diagnostics.
* Mentor junior engineers and support engagement with academic institutions for technical knowledge-sharing and curriculum development.
* Prepare and maintain technical documentation: relay settings files, test reports, fault analysis, and communication SLDs.
* Collaborate with other engineers, commissioning teams, and design team to meet design and project execution requirements.
* Assist with the integration of protection systems into SCADA, RTU, and support the rollout of standardized procedures for protection settings, testing, and fault reporting.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
* Bachelor's/master's degree in electrical engineering or a related field.
* 6+ years of experience in protection and control engineering in high-voltage substations or grid-connected systems.
* Strong understanding of protection principles, grid fault behavior, and coordination methods.
* Familiarity with relay configuration software (e.g., Siemens DIGSI, SEL, Toshiba, ABB PCM600, GE, Schneider).
* Exposure to IEC 61850, including GOOSE and MMS protocols, is strongly preferred.
* Clear communicator with strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
* Willingness to travel to project sites across Ireland, UK, and Europe.
* Experience with SCADA system integration and RTU/Gateway configuration.
* Experience using simulation software (ETAP, PowerFactory, or PSCAD) for fault and coordination studies.
* Familiarity with digital substations and signal-based commissioning.
* Ability to interpret grid codes and utility interconnection requirements.