Substation Communications Intern — EMS & Cybersecurity

Xcel Energy Inc; Minneapolis (MN); Hybrid; USD 2,617,000 - 3,389,000; Full time

Job summary

Xcel Energy offers an internship for electrical or computer engineering students, with hands-on exposure to substation networks, EMS concepts, and cybersecurity considerations. The program emphasizes mentorship and development, with training and practical, team-based learning.

Intern will gain experience configuring RTUs, testing communications equipment, and analyzing network data while collaborating with experienced engineers.

Qualifications

• Current student, Freshman or higher, enrolled in ABET accredited college/university and pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering.
• Able to work full-time during the summer (up to 40 hours a week) or part-time during the school year (up to 20 hours a week) and commute to the designated work location in-person per hybrid policy.

Responsibilities

• Learn how Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) are programmed using DNP.
• Assist with configuring network settings for substation cyber assets.
• Observe and help investigate network event logs.
• Gain understanding of the Energy Management System (EMS) and cybersecurity considerations in electric power operations.
• Assist with configuration, testing, and troubleshooting of communication equipment used in substations and power networks.
• Support maintenance and monitoring of telecommunications infrastructure.
• Use engineering software to configure and verify protective relay and communication settings.
• Analyze network performance data and generate reports to improve reliability and support projects.

Skills

Electrical Engineering

Computer Engineering

Education

ABET accredited college/university

Pursuing Electrical/Computer Engineering degree

Tools

Power System Center

Job description

Xcel Energy offers an internship for electrical or computer engineering students, with hands-on exposure to substation networks, EMS concepts, and cybersecurity considerations. The program emphasizes mentorship and development, with training and practical, team-based learning.

Intern will gain experience configuring RTUs, testing communications equipment, and analyzing network data while collaborating with experienced engineers.