Senior Substation Protection & Controls Engineer

Leidos Inc; Reston (VA); Hybrid; USD 108,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Leidos is seeking a Lead Substation Protection & Selective Controls Engineer to own complex P&C designs for 12–500 kV systems and drive protection solutions across the grid. This role blends advanced digital logic with AC/DC expertise and demands leadership on high-visibility projects.

Hybrid option: 3 days/week in Charlotte, NC or remote for US-based candidates willing to travel. Expect a fast-paced, collaborative environment with growth opportunities and training in PE/PMP development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related field with 8+ years of substation protection and control design experience.
• Strong ability to communicate clearly with internal teams and clients.
• Proven leadership in substation protection and control projects.
• High level of analytical and computer skills for engineering tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support delivery of substation protection and control design projects, ensuring technical excellence and on-time performance.
• Create and refine relay single-line diagrams that define protection zones and topology.
• Develop detailed AC schematics showing current, voltage, and protection device relationships.
• Produce DC control and protection schematics ensuring safe operation of substation equipment.
• Design control panels, wiring diagrams, and layouts for efficient construction and maintainability.
• Build accurate BOMs aligned with project criteria and client requirements.
• Perform QC checks on wiring and schematic designs for safety and constructability.
• Contribute from early scoping through final design, implementation, and energization support.
• Provide technical guidance during installation, testing, and commissioning activities.
• Apply NEC requirements to ensure safe, compliant designs.
• Interpret utility-specific standards across all deliverables.
• Collaborate with design staff to deliver complete drawing packages for each project.

Skills

Substation design

Protection & Control

Team leadership

Communication skills

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering

Job description

Leidos is seeking a Lead Substation Protection & Selective Controls Engineer to own complex P&C designs for 12–500 kV systems and drive protection solutions across the grid. This role blends advanced digital logic with AC/DC expertise and demands leadership on high-visibility projects.

Hybrid option: 3 days/week in Charlotte, NC or remote for US-based candidates willing to travel. Expect a fast-paced, collaborative environment with growth opportunities and training in PE/PMP development.