Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Protection Engineer

at Electric Power Engineers

🏢 About Electric Power Engineers

Electric Power Engineers (EPE) is a specialized consulting firm focused on enhancing grid reliability and resiliency for a sustainable energy future. They are unique in their deep expertise in power system protection and renewable energy integration, offering a remote-first culture that allows engineers to work from anywhere in the US while tackling critical infrastructure challenges.

About This Role

As a Senior Protection Engineer, you will lead the design and configuration of protective relay systems for substations and generation interconnections, including renewable energy projects. Your work ensures the safe and reliable operation of the grid, directly contributing to the transition to sustainable energy sources.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing project specifications and creating relay setting files for an SEL relay using ASPEN, then collaborating with the design team via video call to finalize a single-line diagram for a solar farm interconnection. You'll also spend time checking calculations and coordinating with clients to ensure project milestones are met.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Electric Power Engineers Is Looking For

  • An engineer with 7+ years of experience in power system protection, specifically in preparing relay setting files for SEL and GE relays.
  • Proficient in AutoCAD and protection analysis tools like ETAP and ASPEN, with a track record of creating accurate single-line and three-line diagrams.
  • Holds a US PE license or is able to obtain one within six months, demonstrating commitment to professional standards.
  • Experienced in interconnection design for renewable generation (wind, solar, battery), understanding the unique challenges of inverter-based resources.

📝 Tips for Applying to Electric Power Engineers

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific projects involving SEL and GE relay settings, including the types of files you prepared.

2

In your cover letter, mention your experience with renewable generation interconnection drawings, as this is a key focus for EPE.

3

If you don't yet have a PE license, explicitly state your plan to obtain it within six months and any steps you've already taken.

4

Showcase your proficiency with ETAP and ASPEN by listing relevant analysis tasks, such as coordination studies or arc flash analysis.

5

Emphasize your ability to manage project timelines and budgets, as the job description stresses timely completion and quality objectives.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your experience with protection relay settings for SEL and GE relays, including specific examples of projects.', 'Your familiarity with renewable generation interconnection standards and design practices.', 'Your ability to take ownership of project deliverables and work independently in a remote environment.', "Your commitment to obtaining or holding a PE license, and how it aligns with EPE's high standards."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review EPE's recent projects and case studies, especially those involving renewable energy integration, on their website.
  • → Understand EPE's role in the industry by reading their publications or blog posts on grid modernization and protection challenges.
  • → Look into EPE's company culture and remote work policies by checking employee reviews on Glassdoor or LinkedIn.
  • → Familiarize yourself with the specific relay models mentioned (SEL, GE) and any recent advancements in protection technology.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk me through a time you designed a protection scheme for a renewable generation interconnection. What challenges did you face?
2 How do you ensure accuracy and consistency when preparing relay setting files for different relay brands?
3 Describe your experience with ETAP or ASPEN for protection coordination studies. Can you provide an example of a study that improved system reliability?
4 This role is remote. How do you manage your time and communicate with team members to ensure project deadlines are met?
5 Why are you interested in working for Electric Power Engineers specifically, and how does your experience align with our focus on grid resiliency?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention renewable energy or specific relay experience relevant to this role.
  • Overlooking the PE license requirement – if you don't have one, failing to address how you will obtain it within six months.
  • Not demonstrating proficiency in AutoCAD or protection analysis tools; avoid listing them without concrete examples of use.

📅 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 Electric Power Engineers!

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