Lead IEC61850 Application Engineer

GE Vernova; Stafford; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

GE Vernova is seeking an Lead IEC 61850 Application Engineer to define requirements for an IEC 61850 System Configuration Tool and enhance features for HVDC and substation projects.

You will work with global teams to ensure timely delivery, maintain SCL-based engineering workflows, and contribute to testing and documentation efforts across platforms.

Qualifications

• The candidate holds a Bachelor's degree in a related engineering field.
• Extensive experience with IEC 61850 protocol and substation automation.
• Deep understanding of SCL files (ICD, CID, SCD, SSD, IID).
• Experience with SCT/ICT workflows and multi-vendor interoperability.
• Knowledge of time sync protocols (PTP/IRIG-B) and related redundancy concepts.

Responsibilities

• Drive sustenance, enhancement, and feature development of an IEC 61850 System Configuration Tool.
• Define and document requirements for IEC 61850-based engineering workflows.
• Coordinate with global teams on feature design and implementation.
• Prepare test specifications, release packages, and validation support.

Skills

IEC 61850

Substation automation

Java technology stack

SCT/ICT concepts

Multivendor interoperability

Time synchronization (PTP/IRIG-B)

Eclipse framework knowledge

Embedded C/C++ interest

Cybersecurity basics

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Technology, or related discipline

Tools

SCL tooling

Wireshark

MMS client tools

Job description

Job Description Summary

Responsible for designing, developing and testing embedded software (firmware), platforms and systems that control and run on devices tailored to the hardware needs. This role requires a deep understanding of the characteristics of the physical device, real‑time functions, and the ability to design, develop, implement and test the logic required to realize real‑time functionality, typically for products across various P&Ls. The incumbent will impact departmental operations and assume responsibility for planning and execution, with some autonomy within standard functional practices.

Job Description

The Lead IEC 61850 Application Engineer will define requirements and enhance product features for an IEC 61850‑compliant System Configuration Tool, collaborating closely with global engineering teams. The role is critical to delivering business‑critical software that meets product requirements and timelines for future commercial HVDC and substation automation projects.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Drive sustenance, enhancement, and feature development of an IEC 61850 System Configuration Tool.
• Develop a strong functional understanding of IEC 61850 engineering workflows and configuration tool requirements.
• Define, analyze, and document product requirements related to IEC 61850‑based system engineering and interoperability.
• Work closely with global controls and software development teams to coordinate feature design and implementation.
• Stay updated with the latest developments in IEC 61850 standards, editions, and industry adoption trends.
• Contribute to the implementation and validation of features supporting SCL‑based engineering and multi‑vendor interoperability.
• Support integration of software packages with existing systems and sub‑systems.
• Prepare unit test and regression test specifications, release packages, and supporting templates.
• Support software release testing and validation.
• Prepare formal and informal engineering documentation, including design documents, requirement specifications, and release reports.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Engineering, Technology, or a related discipline.
• Extensive experience working with IEC 61850 protocol and substation automation systems.
• Strong understanding of the IEC 61850 standard and relevant parts, with practical awareness of their application in digital substations and automation systems.
• Good understanding of SCL files, including engineering concepts related to ICD, CID, SCD, SSD, and IID files.
• Experience or strong understanding of System Configuration Tool (SCT) and IED Configuration Tool (ICT) concepts and their role in IEC 61850 engineering workflows.
• Experience working with IEC 61850 multi‑vendor devices and interoperability requirements.Awareness or experience with IEC 61850‑9‑2 Process Bus implementation.
• High‑level understanding of the Java technology stack, preferably in the context of engineering software or tool development.
• Familiarity with Eclipse‑based frameworks such as Eclipse Common Platform, Eclipse Modeling Framework (EMF), and Graphic Modeling Framework (GMF) is an advantage.
• Experience with substation automation communication protocols.
• Knowledge of UCA test procedures and test tools such as Wireshark and MMS client tools.
• Understanding of time synchronization protocols such as PTP and IRIG‑B.Understanding of redundancy protocols such as PRP and HSR.
• Strong analytical mindset, ownership, and a proactive attitude.

Desired Characteristics

• Experience with IEC 61850 configuration tools, preferably Helinks STS or similar tools.
• Good understanding of IEC 61850 engineering lifecycle, system configuration, and device configuration practices.
• Exposure to Embedded C/C++, MATLAB/Simulink, or other auto‑coded control software is a plus.
• Familiarity with modern cybersecurity concepts such as static analysis and digital signatures.
• Demonstrated technical problem‑solving ability.Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven experience working effectively with global engineering teams.
• Self‑starter, results‑oriented, and collaborative team player.
• Familiarity with Agile development practices such as Scrum.
• Knowledge of power electronics control systems and the HVDC domain is an advantage.

Additional Information

Relocation Assistance Provided: No