Relay Technician I

Electric Power Systems; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 69,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Career development

Per diem for travel

Incentives for Certifications

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Electric Power Systems is seeking a Relay Technician I to assist in installing, testing, and maintaining protective relay and control systems in substations and industrial settings. You will learn relay protection theory and practical testing under supervision.

This entry-level role requires a safety mindset, a driver’s license, and willingness to travel. A related degree or military exposure is preferred, with opportunities for certification incentives and career development.

Qualifications

• Pre-employment drug screen as this is a safety sensitive role.
• Criminal background check required.
• Overtime and travel out of town may be required.
• Valid driver’s license with good driving record required.
• Hands-on experience installing, maintaining, testing and repairing protective relays in transmission, generation or distribution substations.
• Knowledge of relay test software.

Responsibilities

• Assist in installation, testing, and maintenance of protective relay and control systems in substations and industrial environments.
• Build and execute basic relay test plans under supervision.
• Read and interpret schematics and wiring diagrams for protection systems.
• Document testing activities and maintain detailed reports.
• Collaborate with senior technicians and engineers to develop skills and knowledge.

Skills

Pre-employment drug screen

Criminal background check

Overtime availability

Valid driver's license

Relay protection experience

Relay test software knowledge

Education

Electrical/Electronic technology degree

Military experience preferred

Tools

Electrical test equipment

Job description

Electric Power Systems
ID US-VA-Richmond
ID 2026-7750

Overview

Job Title: Relay Technician I

About The Company

Electric Power Systems (EPS) is a NETA-accredited independent electrical testing and engineering organization specializing in electrical acceptance testing, commissioning, and maintenance for clients across Data Centers, Utility, Generation, Renewables, Transit, Industrial and Commercial Facilities throughout North America. We are committed to safety, technical expertise, and setting the standard of excellence in the power industry.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan with Company Match
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and a Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Perks

• Competitive Pay
• Talent Development – Instructor-Led Technical Courses and Online Learning
• Career Path Planning
• Incentives for Professional Certifications
• Competitive Per Diem for Travel
• Referral Bonuses
• Tuition Reimbursement

Pay: The hourly rate for this position is between $50 - $65 per hour. Factors which may affect starting pay within this range may include geography/market, skills, education, experience, and other qualifications of the successful candidate. Salary range may be negotiable depending on qualifications and experience.

Position Overview

The Relay Technician I is an entry-level role responsible for assisting in the installation, testing, and maintenance of protective relay and control systems in substations and industrial (C&I) environments. This position focuses on developing foundational knowledge of relay protection theory, practical testing applications, and electrical schematics under the supervision of Senior Relay Technicians and Engineers. The role includes exposure to building test plans, executing entry-level testing, and supporting system verification activities.

Responsibilities

• Implement safety policies and follow all company safety procedures, including proper use of PPE in energized environments.

• Participate in safety meetings, job briefings, and hazard identification activities.
• Support a safety-first culture by reporting hazards and following established procedures.
• Assist with installation, wiring, and commissioning of protection and control systems on relay panels, transformers, and circuit breakers.

• Perform entry-level testing under supervision from Senior Relay Technicians and Engineers.
• Assist in building and executing basic relay test plans based on engineering guidance.
• Support functional and supporting function testing activities alongside senior staff.
• Develop understanding and practical application of relay protection theory, including:
  • Overcurrent, transformer, bus differential, and distance relays
  • Different operating schemes used in protection systems
  • Logic gates and Boolean algebra as applied to relay logic
  • Polarity, phasing, and vector relationships in power systems

• Read and interpret one-line, three-line, and AC/DC schematics and drawings.
• Assist in reviewing protection and control drawings to understand system design and functionality.
• Assist in troubleshooting relay and control system issues using schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals.
• Accurately document testing activities and maintain detailed reports of work performed.

• Work closely with Relay Technicians II/III and engineers to develop technical skills and industry knowledge.
• Maintain tools, test equipment, and work areas in a safe and organized condition.

Qualifications

Required Skills/Abilities

• Able to pass a pre-employment drug screen due to this being a safety sensitive position.
• Complete a satisfactory criminal background check.
• Able to work overtime and travel out of town for periods of time.
• Must have a valid driver's license and currently have and be able to maintain a good driving record.
• Hands on experience installing, maintaining, testing & repairing protective relays in transmission, generation or distribution level substations.
• Capable of troubleshooting distribution and transmission controls circuits.
• Knowledge of relay test software.

Preferred Skills/Abilities

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience installing, maintaining, testing, or repairing circuit breakers, transformers, switchgear, or similar equipment.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's or associate degree in electrical/Electronic technology, or Military experience preferred
• NETA certified a plus

Physical Requirements

• Able to climb ladders, stand for extended periods, able to lift 70 lbs.

EPS is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration for employment to all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, disability, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity and sexual orientation), political affiliation, military service, national origin, age or any other characteristics protected by state or federal laws.

EPS does not work with individual recruiters or third party recruiting agencies, and will not recognize claim to any unsolicited resumes or candidate information.

#PoweringTheFuture

Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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