Application Guide
How to Apply for Protection and Controls Engineer (P.E.) - Substations - Remote (U.S.)
at AECOM
🏢 About AECOM
AECOM stands out as a global infrastructure firm focused on building sustainable legacies through innovative solutions in energy and environmental sectors. Their commitment to Grid Modernization and diverse energy projects (from traditional substations to next-gen hydrogen systems) offers engineers the chance to work on cutting-edge, impactful infrastructure that shapes the future of energy.
About This Role
This Protection and Controls Engineer role involves designing and implementing electrical protection systems for substations and grid modernization projects, directly supporting AECOM's Energy Business Line. You'll contribute to diverse projects including transmission systems, renewables integration, and next-generation energy solutions, making this role critical for enhancing grid reliability and enabling clean energy transitions.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day involves collaborating remotely with project teams on substation protection designs, reviewing relay settings and control schematics, participating in client meetings to discuss project requirements, and contributing to proposals for new grid modernization opportunities. You'll balance technical design work with client communication and business development activities.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For
- Professional Engineer (P.E.) license with specific experience in substation protection and controls design
- Demonstrated background in electrical engineering for transmission systems, generator interconnections, or renewable energy integration
- Proven ability to work in team environments while communicating effectively with both technical teams and clients
- Experience with grid modernization technologies such as Battery Energy Storage Systems, microgrids, or EV charging networks
📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM
Highlight specific substation protection projects you've worked on, mentioning relay types (SEL, GE, etc.) and control systems you've designed
Emphasize any experience with AECOM's mentioned sectors: transmission systems, renewables integration, or next-gen energy projects
Tailor your resume to show how you've supported business growth - mention client interactions or business development experience
If you have remote work experience, detail how you've successfully collaborated on engineering projects virtually
Include keywords from their technology list: OH/UG transmission, BESS, microgrid design, hydrogen systems, or grid modernization
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your specific experience with substation protection and controls engineering', "How you've contributed to grid modernization or energy transition projects", 'Examples of successful client interactions or business development in the energy sector', 'Your approach to working in remote/hybrid engineering teams']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → AECOM's recent Grid Modernization projects and their Energy Business Line portfolio
- → Their work in next-generation energy (hydrogen, fuel cells) mentioned in the job description
- → AECOM's sustainability initiatives and how they align with your values
- → Their Engineering Center of Excellence structure and how this role fits within it
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic electrical engineering resume without specific protection and controls experience
- Failing to address the business development/client interaction aspects of the role
- Not demonstrating understanding of AECOM's specific energy sectors and grid modernization focus
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!