Automation Junior Engineer

Hitachi Energy; Isle Forest (NC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Hitachi Energy is seeking an entry‑level Automation Junior Engineer to support the design, configuration, testing, and implementation of substation automation systems. You will gain structured training and mentorship while developing expertise in MicroSCADA, SCADA architectures, and power system technologies.

You will work with experienced engineers and specialists, contributing to grid reliability and renewable energy integration while traveling up to 20% as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field.
• 0-2 years experience, internships/co-ops considered.
• Familiarity with electrical power systems, automation, or industrial controls is a plus.
• Interest in substation automation, SCADA systems, and power technologies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; good written and verbal communication.
• Willingness to travel up to 20% of the time.

Responsibilities

• Assist in design and implementation of substation automation systems.
• Configure MicroSCADA applications, HMI displays, alarms, and data acquisition functions.
• Learn IEC 61850, Modbus, DNP3, and GOOSE protocols; support documentation and diagrams.
• Support project activities to ensure quality, schedule, and customer requirements.
• Assist with integration of automation systems with protection and control equipment.
• Contribute to testing, commissioning support, and system troubleshooting.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Willingness to travel

Curriculum learning mindset

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related field

Job description

Basic Function

The Automation Junior Engineer supports the design, configuration, testing, and implementation of substation automation systems using Hitachi EnergyMicroSCADAand related technologies. This entry-level role focuses on developing technicalexpertisethrough structured training, mentorship, and hands‑on project experience.

The Opportunity:

At Hitachi Energy, we are looking for a motivated, early‑career engineer who is eager to build a career in substation automation and digital power systems. This role is designed for individuals with strong technical foundations, curiosity, and a passion for learning.Prior hands‑on experience with automation systems is not required. Through structured training and mentorship, you will gain experience designing, configuring, testing, and supporting automation systems that play a critical role in modern electrical grids.

You will work alongside experienced engineers and technical specialists while gaining exposure to SCADA systems, MicroSCADA applications, communication networks, substation automation technologies, and industry‑leading engineering practices.

This is an opportunity to contribute to innovative solutions that support grid reliability, renewable energy integration, and the ongoing digitalization of utility infrastructure.

Key responsibilities for engineering include, but are not limited to, the following:

System Design & Configuration

• Support the design and implementation of substation automation systems.

• Assist in configuring MicroSCADA applications, HMI displays, alarms, and data acquisition functions.

• Learn and support communication protocol implementation, including IEC 61850, Modbus, DNP3, and GOOSE.

• Assist with preparation of engineering documentation and network diagrams.
• Participate in engineering reviews and design validation activities.

Project Execution

• Support project activities to ensure quality, schedule, and customer requirements are met.

• Participate in FAT,SATand commissioning support activities.

• Assist with system verification, validation and troubleshooting.
• Contribute to project documentation and engineering deliverables.

Integration & Support

• Support integration of automation systems with protection and control equipment.

• Assist with configuration and testing of MicroSCADA systems and communication gateways.
• Support installation and startup activities both remotely and on‑site when required

Documentation & Reporting

• Assist in preparing engineering reports and technical documentation.
• Maintain accurate records of configurations, testing activities, and project changes.
• Support the preparation of customer documentation and project close‑out packages

Customer & Team Collaboration

• Collaborate with engineering, project management, field service, and sales teams.
• Participate in customer meetings and technical discussions as required.
• Support customer issue resolution under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Build effective professional relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Follow all Hitachi Energy health, safety, environmental, and cybersecurity procedures.
• Support safe working practices during office, laboratory, factory, and on‑site activities.
• Learn and contribute to a culture of safety, integrity, quality, and accountability.
• Ensure compliance with company procedures and industry standards.

Training & Development

You will receive structured, on‑the‑job training to develop expertise in:

• Substation automation systems and power system applications
• Hitachi Energy MicroSCADA platforms
• SCADA architecture and HMI development
• IEC 61850 communication standards and engineering practices
• Industrial communication protocols including Modbus, DNP3, and GOOSE
• Network and cybersecurity fundamentals for automation systems
• System integration, testing, and troubleshooting methodologies

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience: 0-2 years (internships and co‑op experience considered).
• Basic understanding of electrical power systems, automation systems, or industrial controls.
• Interest in substation automation, SCADA systems, and power system technologies.
• Familiarity with programming, networking, or industrial communication concepts is considered an asset.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Willingness to travel up to 20% of the time.
• Work authorization that permits employment in the United States.

Career Development Path

This role provides a foundation for progression into:

• Automation Engineer
• Automation Commissioning Engineer
• Automation Specialist
• Lead Automation Engineer