Protection & Control Engineer

Copper Roots is seeking a Protection & Control Engineer to join our Substation Engineering practice. The ideal candidate brings a minimum 7 years of experience in substation P&C engineering with a strong foundation in protective relaying schemes, industry standards, and construction practices across voltage classes from 12kV to 500kV. This role is for an engineer who has developed real technical depth and is ready for an environment where that expertise is recognized, applied across a broad range of project types, and developed further under the mentorship of senior leadership.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Protection and Control Design

• Lead and support the design and delivery of P&C packages for high voltage substation projects across the country
• Develop relay settings, protection coordination studies, and protection philosophies consistent with client standards and applicable codes including NESC, PRC, and IEEE
• Design relay panels, control schemes, DC systems, and wiring diagrams
• Provide technical support during bidding, procurement, and construction phases
• Conduct site visits and coordinate with field teams to ensure project success
• Ensure quality of design deliverables through adherence to internal QA/QC procedures

Substation Automation and SCADA

• Support the development and growth of Copper Roots' substation automation and SCADA capabilities
• Apply experience with modern relay platforms, communication protocols, and HMI configurations to support client needs
• Contribute to the firm's growing SAS capability as an integrated part of the substation practice

Power System Studies

• Perform power system analysis including short circuit studies, load flow, and protection coordination
• Support feasibility studies, interconnection studies, and protection coordination reports for utility and developer clients

Team and Practice Development

• Contribute to the development of internal design standards, procedures, and tools to support scalable project execution
• Mentor and support junior engineers across P&C and automation disciplines
• Coordinate with clients and stakeholders on project status and technical requirements
• Maintain existing client relationships and support the growth of new opportunities
• Stay current with emerging technologies and best practices in protection engineering

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from an accredited institution
• Minimum 7 years of experience in P&C design with an emphasis on protective relaying
• Advanced knowledge of protection schemes including transformer protection, line protection, breaker failure, capacitor bank protection, communication-based schemes, and differential protection
• Proficiency with ASPEN Oneliner, ETAP, CAPE, CYME, PSSE, or AcSELerator Quickset
• Knowledge of applicable codes and standards including NESC, PRC, and IEEE
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Proficiency with MS Office software

Preferred

• Professional Engineer (PE) licensure or active pursuit of licensure
• Experience with SEL RTAC configuration and IEC 61850 GOOSE messaging
• Experience with substation SCADA systems, DNP3, and HMI development
• Experience supporting utility clients including IOUs, cooperatives, or municipalities
• Experience with system planning studies, cost estimating, and scheduling

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT AT COPPER ROOTS

• Direct access to firm leadership and meaningful work from day one
• Exposure across multiple client types, project sizes, and voltage classes
• A clear path to grow into elevated technical and leadership roles
• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match up to 6%
• Professional development support and continuing education
• Paid personal time off
• Hybrid/Remote work environment