Intern - Data Communications Engineering

Dominion Energy; Glen Allen (VA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Dominion Energy is seeking a motivated Data Communications Engineering intern to support the Transmission & Distribution team. You will gain hands-on experience with substation SCADA, automation, networking, and communications projects, collaborating with experienced engineers and technical teams.

You will work on RTACs, HMIs, PDCs, IEDs, and network configurations, learning industry standards and cybersecurity practices while building a foundation for a career in energy engineering.

Qualifications

• Strong time management and ability to plan independently.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Basic knowledge of engineering concepts and theory.
• Ability to think analytically and solve problems.

Responsibilities

• Review diagrams to understand project scope and communications requirements.
• Develop and update configurations for substation automation equipment using protocols like DNP, Modbus, SEL messaging.
• Assist with configuring, testing, and troubleshooting RTACs, HMIs, network equipment, and IEDs.
• Learn engineering standards, data governance, and cybersecurity practices.
• Explore new devices and protocols through evaluation and testing in substations.

Skills

Time management

Independent work

Communication skills

Engineering fundamentals

Analytical thinking

Education

B.S. in Electrical Engineering

B.S. in Computer Engineering

Job description

Intern - Data Communications Engineering

Dominion Energy is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean energy that powers our customers every day. If you want to work for a purpose-driven company that values safety and collaboration, we’re looking for you. You won’t just find a job here; you’ll find your career. Review the position below.

At this time, Dominion Energy cannot transfer or sponsor a work visa or employment authorization for this position.

Job Summary

Data Communications Engineering is seeking a motivated and curious intern to join our T&D team. This internship provides an opportunity to gain hands-on engineering experience supporting substation SCADA, automation, networking, and communications projects across the Transmission & Distribution system.

The intern will work alongside experienced engineers and technical teams while gaining exposure to areas such as RTAC and HMI development, communications and network configuration, synchrophasor systems, and emerging technologies such as IEC 61850 and Software Defined Networking (SDN).

This is an exciting opportunity to learn how communications and automation technologies are applied in a real-world electric utility environment.

Data Communications Intern projects may include:

• Review substation one-line, functional, elementary, and wiring diagrams to understand project scope and communications requirements.
• Gain hands‑on experience developing and updating configurations for substation automation and communications equipment using protocols such as DNP, Modbus, SEL Fast Messaging, and MMS.
• Assist engineers with configuring, testing, and troubleshooting RTACs, HMIs, PDCs, IEDs, network equipment, and other substation communications devices.
• Learn and apply established engineering standards, configuration practices, naming conventions, data governance requirements, and cybersecurity practices.
• Explore new communications devices, protocols, technologies, and system architectures through evaluation and testing for potential use within substations.
• Participate in team meetings, technical discussions, and knowledge‑sharing opportunities to develop a broader understanding of Data Communications Engineering.
• Strong time management skills with the ability to independently plan and organize work assignments.
• Equally effective with working independently or in a team environment.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, including technical writing.
• Basic knowledge of engineering concepts, fundamentals, and theory.
• Ability to think analytically and solve complex problems.

Education Requirements

• Enrolled in a Bachelor of Science in Engineering program.
• Disciplines: Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering are preferred.
• Candidate must have a 3.0 minimum GPA or greater.
• Must be graduating in Spring 2028 or later.

Export Control

Certain positions at Dominion Energy may involve access to information and technology subject to export controls under U.S. law. Compliance with these export controls may result in Dominion Energy limiting its consideration of certain applicants.

What You’ll Get

Hourly Rate:

$23.00 - $29.00

The hourly rate listed is the rate we anticipate paying for this position. If a range is listed, the actual hourly rate offered may vary based on factors such as the selected candidate's degree type, academic major, and/or school classification (e.g., sophomore, junior, senior).

At Dominion Energy, we offer excellent plans and programs for employees. Employees are rewarded with a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package which includes: health, dental, and vision benefits with coverage for families and domestic partners, vacation, retirement plans including 401k contributions and matches, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, bonus eligibility, sick leave, and disability insurance. To learn more about our benefits, Dombenefits.com

Dominion Energy is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin and/or status as a protected veteran or individual with a disability.

You can experience the excitement of our company - it's the difference between taking a job and starting a career.

Top 3 Reasons to Work at Dominion Energy

Dominion Energy is committed to helping address climate change. We have cut emissions sharply as we aim for Net Zero carbon and methane emissions by 2050. Learn more at sustainability.dominionenergy.com .

Job Segment: Entry Level Engineer, Testing, Technical Writer, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Engineering, Technology