Application Guide

How to Apply for Protection and Controls - Substations - Electrical Engineer - Remote (U.S.)

at AECOM

🏢 About AECOM

AECOM is a global leader in infrastructure consulting, known for delivering sustainable and innovative solutions in energy, water, and environment. Working here means contributing to grid modernization and renewable energy projects that shape the future of power systems, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and technological advancement.

About This Role

This Protection and Controls Engineer role focuses on designing and implementing protection schemes for substations, transmission systems, and renewable energy interconnections. As part of AECOM's Energy Center of Excellence, you'll drive grid modernization initiatives and have a direct impact on the reliability and safety of critical power infrastructure.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing project specifications, developing relay settings and coordination studies, and creating protection schematics using CAD software. You'll likely have virtual meetings with project teams to discuss design progress, coordinate with clients on technical requirements, and troubleshoot any issues that arise during implementation.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For

  • An experienced electrical engineer with a strong background in protection and control design for substations, including relay coordination, SCADA integration, and familiarity with industry standards (IEEE, NERC).
  • Proficient in engineering software such as ASPEN, ETAP, or SKM, and capable of producing detailed design documents, one-line diagrams, and protection schematics.
  • A collaborative team player who can communicate effectively with project managers, clients, and multidisciplinary teams, and is comfortable working remotely or in a hybrid setting.
  • Self-motivated with high attention to detail, able to manage multiple projects and deadlines while maintaining a focus on quality and innovation.

📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific P&C projects, especially those involving substation automation, relay settings, and renewable interconnection designs.

2

In your cover letter, mention your experience with grid modernization and any familiarity with AECOM's past energy projects or sustainability initiatives.

3

Quantify your achievements, e.g., 'Designed protection schemes for 5 substations, reducing outage times by 20%.'

4

If you have a Professional Engineer (PE) license, emphasize it; if not, mention your progress toward licensure.

5

Research AECOM's Energy Business Line and reference recent projects (e.g., microgrids, BESS) in your application to show alignment.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Highlight your hands-on experience with protection and control design for substations and transmission systems.', "Emphasize your understanding of grid modernization challenges and how your skills can contribute to AECOM's sustainable solutions.", 'Mention your ability to work independently in a remote environment while collaborating effectively with distributed teams.', 'Show enthusiasm for renewable energy and next-generation power systems, as these are key growth areas for AECOM.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read AECOM's recent case studies on grid modernization and renewable energy projects, available on their website.
  • → Look into AECOM's sustainability commitments and how they integrate ESG principles into engineering solutions.
  • → Check out AECOM's 'Energy Center of Excellence' and any published thought leadership on protection and control innovation.
  • → Review AECOM's company culture and remote work policies on Glassdoor to understand expectations.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a complex protection scheme you designed and how you ensured coordination and reliability.
2 How do you stay current with evolving P&C standards and technologies (e.g., IEC 61850, digital substations)?
3 Walk us through your approach to troubleshooting a misoperation in a substation relay.
4 How have you handled communication challenges when working remotely with a cross-functional team?
5 What experience do you have with renewable energy interconnection protection requirements?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't submit a generic resume; ensure it specifically lists P&C design experience and relevant software skills.
  • Avoid vague statements like 'I am a team player' without concrete examples of collaboration on complex projects.
  • Don't neglect to mention your ability to work remotely; many candidates fail to address self-management and communication strategies.

📅 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:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to AECOM!

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