Engineering

Power Systems Engineer job description

A Power Systems Engineer designs and optimizes electrical grids and distribution systems. Learn what a Power Systems Engineer does and how to join our team.

Published December 31, 2024Updated May 16, 20261162 likes

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Job brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented Power Systems Engineer to join our high-impact engineering team and lead the design of next-generation power infrastructure. You will work on critical projects that enhance grid reliability and support the transition toward sustainable energy distribution. In this role, you will apply advanced analytical techniques to solve real-world electrical problems while collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams of engineers and contractors. If you are passionate about power systems architecture and want to drive operational excellence in an innovative environment, we would love to meet you.

Key highlights

Perform complex power flow, transient stability, and harmonic analysis using ETAP or PSS/E to ensure grid reliability.
Design and review electrical system protection schemes, including relay coordination, breaker settings, and transformer protection logic.
Execute comprehensive arc flash studies and short-circuit analyses to maintain safety in compliance with IEEE 1584 and NFPA 70E.
Specify high-voltage equipment, including circuit breakers, transformers, and switchgear, coordinating directly with procurement vendors.

What is a Power Systems Engineer?

A Power Systems Engineer is a specialized electrical engineer responsible for the design, analysis, and simulation of high-voltage transmission, distribution, and substation infrastructure. By utilizing sophisticated modeling software such as ETAP, PSS/E, or SKM PowerTools, a Power Systems Engineer evaluates grid stability, conducts load flow studies, and performs short-circuit and protection coordination analysis. Their technical expertise ensures that power networks remain reliable, efficient, and compliant with NERC/FERC standards, forming the critical backbone of modern energy infrastructure.

What does a Power Systems Engineer do?

On a daily basis, a Power Systems Engineer develops complex electrical models to simulate grid behavior and identify potential capacity bottlenecks or protection failures. They collaborate closely with utility project managers, field technicians, and regulatory stakeholders to approve equipment specifications, oversee commissioning tests, and resolve integration issues for renewable energy or microgrid projects. Additionally, they document technical findings, prepare arc flash study reports, and implement automation upgrades to improve overall system resiliency and performance.

Key responsibilities

Perform complex power flow, transient stability, and harmonic analysis using ETAP or PSS/E to ensure grid reliability under varied load conditions.
Design and review electrical system protection schemes, including relay coordination, breaker settings, and transformer protection logic for utility-scale facilities.
Execute comprehensive arc flash studies and short-circuit analyses to maintain workplace safety in compliance with IEEE 1584 and NFPA 70E standards.
Specify high-voltage equipment, including circuit breakers, transformers, switchgear, and protective relays, coordinating procurement directly with vendors.
Conduct field inspections and on-site commissioning support to verify that installations align with approved engineering designs and safety codes.
Prepare detailed technical reports, one-line diagrams, and equipment specification documents for submission to regulatory bodies and internal project stakeholders.
Analyze system performance data to identify reliability gaps, recommending infrastructure upgrades to reduce downtime and improve overall transmission efficiency.
Mentor junior engineering staff on best practices for substation design, grounding systems, and medium-voltage distribution network planning.

Requirements and skills

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering with a focus on Power Systems or an equivalent professional engineering credential.
Professional Engineer (PE) license or an EIT certificate with a clear path toward PE licensure in the near future.
3+ years of professional experience in power systems modeling, specifically with software packages like ETAP, SKM PowerTools, or PSCAD.
Deep understanding of industry standards including IEEE, IEC, NERC, and NFPA 70E requirements for high-voltage systems.
Hands-on experience with relay testing, protective device coordination, and substation automation systems (SAS).
Proven ability to translate technical grid simulation data into actionable business recommendations for executive leadership teams.
Proficiency in interpreting complex electrical schematics, one-line diagrams, and equipment vendor datasheets for large-scale utility projects.
Demonstrated expertise in managing multi-site engineering project timelines, budgets, and technical documentation requirements effectively.

FAQs

What does a Power Systems Engineer do on a daily basis?

A Power Systems Engineer manages the performance and safety of electrical grids. Daily tasks include running simulations in software like ETAP, calculating load flow and short-circuit scenarios, and designing protective relay settings. They also review technical drawings, collaborate with field crews during site commissioning, and ensure all infrastructure complies with stringent IEEE and NERC regulations.

What qualifications are required to become a Power Systems Engineer?

Candidates typically need a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, preferably with a heavy focus on power systems coursework. A Professional Engineer (PE) license is highly valued and often required for senior-level responsibilities. Additionally, proficiency in power modeling software (like PSS/E or SKM), a solid grasp of high-voltage equipment, and knowledge of NFPA 70E safety standards are essential requirements.

Who does a Power Systems Engineer work with?

A Power Systems Engineer operates as a bridge between technical design and field execution. They work closely with project managers to keep budgets on track, collaborate with field technicians to oversee equipment installation, and interact with utility operators to maintain grid stability. They also serve as the primary technical point of contact for regulatory bodies, equipment vendors, and construction contractors.

Why is the role of a Power Systems Engineer important?

This role is vital to the stability and safety of modern society, as they ensure electricity is distributed reliably and safely from generation sources to end-users. By performing rigorous analysis, they prevent catastrophic system failures, protect infrastructure assets from electrical faults, and enable the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid. Their work directly contributes to energy efficiency, operational cost savings, and public safety.