Engineer/Technical Specialist (Mid – Sr.) | Generation Control Systems Engineering

American Electric Power; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 88,000 - 129,000; Full time

Job summary

American Electric Power in Columbus, OH seeks a mid-level Engineer/Technical Specialist to support networked control systems. You will review firewall rules, configure Cisco switches, and troubleshoot control system networks, aligning with NIST/NERC CIP/IEC 62443 frameworks to protect critical fleet assets.

The role requires knowledge of DCS/PLC systems, cybersecurity practices, and experience with network diagnostics and server installations. On-site position with competitive compensation.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of firewall rules and ACLs, and network access controls.
• Ability to review and modify Cisco switch configurations.
• Familiarity with TCP/IP, Modbus, DNP3 in control system env.
• Experience with network tools (NMAP, NESSUS, Wireshark, SIEM).
• Understanding of control system devices (DCS, PLCs, historians, relays) and cybersecurity considerations.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity standards (NIST, NERC CIP, IEC 62443).

Responsibilities

• Review Firewall Rules and Access Control Lists to ensure proper electronic access controls.
• Review/understand network switch settings and modify switches (Cisco).
• Perform basic network troubleshooting and monitoring in Control System environments.
• Understand protocols used in control systems (TCP/IP, Modbus, DNP3).
• Familiar with protecting monitoring, protection equipment and cybersecurity frameworks.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot issues in control systems; assist with server/workstation installations.

Skills

Networking knowledge

Firewall rules review

ACLs understanding

Network troubleshooting

Cybersecurity principles

Microsoft Office

Analytical thinking

Education

ABET-accredited Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Master's degree in Engineering (ABET-accredited)

PE license

Bachelor's in Engineering Technology with PE waiver option

Tools

Cisco switches

NMAP

NESSUS

Wireshark

SIEM

DCS (Emerson/ABB/GE/Siemens)

Plcs (Allen-Bradley Controllogix/GE/Siemens)

Windows

Linux

Visio

Job description

Job Posting End Date11-17-2026Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.Job SummaryEngineer - Responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing intermediate level engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.Technical Specialist - Intermediate level of responsibility to facilitate and maintain programs/ systems/ equipment critical to the AEP generating fleet according to established guidelines and specific work tasks. Has knowledge of program/ system/ equipment requirements and completes assigned work with proficiency. Supports, in collaboration with local and/or remote resources, the forecasting, planning, installation, and commissioning of enhancements to the programs/systems/equipment to meet AEP requirements. Help site personnel troubleshoot issues.Job DescriptionWhat You’ll Do:Familiarity with the following:Networking Knowledge/ExperienceReview Firewall Rules and Access Control Lists (ACLs) to ensure proper electronic access controls are in place.Review/understand network switch settings and capable of performing configuration/modifications to switches (e.g., Cisco).Basic network troubleshooting skills.Understanding of commonly used protocols in the Control System environment is a plus (e.g., TCP/IP, Modbus, DNP3).Experience with network tools is a plus (e.g., NMAP, NESSUS, Wireshark, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM))Control System EnvironmentExperience with Controls, Monitoring, and Protection equipment is a plus. This includes such equipment as DCS (Emerson, ABB, GE, Siemens, etc.), PLCs (Allen-Bradley Controllogix, GE, Siemens, etc.), Recorders, Historians, GE and SEL Protective relays.Understanding of potential vulnerabilities and mitigations. Experience installing patches or upgrading firmware a plus.Diagnosing and troubleshooting issues.Practical knowledge and skill with computers and interfacing to other devices.Experience with the configuration and installation of servers, workstations, and appliances a plus.Understanding how NIST 800-82 from a cybersecurity perspective applies in the Control System environment is a plus.Security Frameworks and StandardsFamiliarity with cybersecurity principles and standards is a plus (such as NIST, NERC CIP, and IEC 62443) including NIST Cybersecurity framework (CSF 2.0).Core SkillsetKnowledgeable about computers systems (Windows, Linux, etc…).Experience with Microsoft Office products such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint.Experience with Visio a plus.Critical Thinking & Problem SolvingNote: This position is posted at multiple grade levels and offers a range of opportunities for advancement. The minimum qualifications outlined below apply to the Engineer or Technical Specialist level, with increased educational, skill or experience requirements for higher level Engineers or Technical Specialists.What We’re Looking For:Engineer - Education and Experience Requirements are listed below:Has typically acquired a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET* along with two or more years of related engineering experience.Individuals with a Master's degree in engineering from an engineering program accredited by ABET* may be considered for entry into the organization at this level.Individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.*ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.Acceptable alternative is:Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.**VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with an Non-ABET accredited programTechnical Specialist:Education requirements are listed below:Bachelor’s degree in applicable technical field or Associate’s degree with 2 years of relevant work experience.Work Experience requirements are listed below:In addition to any experience required above, 6 years of direct experience and intermediate level knowledge of the specialized programs/ systems/ equipment is typically required for this particular role.Other:Physical demand level varies depending on specific job duties/requirements.What You’ll Get:In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do!At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!AMERICAN ELECTRIC POWER (on-site)#AEPCareers#LI-ONSITECompensation DataCompensation Grade:SP20-007Compensation Range:$87,633.00 - $128,689.00The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.Hear about it first! Get job alerts by email. Log in to your Candidate Home Account today! If you don't have an account, you can create one.It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.