Associate Automation Engineer/PE I

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) is looking for someone to join our Engineering Services (ES) Special Protection Systems team as a Project Engineer in Pullman, WA.

As a Project Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, testing, and commissioning POWERMAX® power management and microgrid control systems. The role includes RTAC programming, HMI development, system integration, factory acceptance testing, and on-site commissioning support. You will work closely with customers, project managers, and other engineering teams to develop customized solutions that meet project requirements while ensuring reliable and efficient operation of the customer's electrical system.

Job Description:

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
1. Possesses, understands and applies the fundamental concepts, practices and procedures of power system automation and related SEL products.
2. Train and assist customers with the creation, design, configuration, validation, installation, commissioning and operation of automation and/or protection systems.
3. Complete and implement assigned work within agreed upon scope, schedule and budget to a high level of quality and safety.
4. Participate in the preparation of functional design specifications.
5. Prepare and maintain detailed design documents, reports, checklists, test reports, and deliverables.
6. Follow and apply SEL Values, Principles of Operations, and World Class Manufacturing Principles.
7. Understand. Create. Simplify.
8. Other duties as assigned.

B.S. in Electrical Engineering or relevant discipline

2+ years relevant application experience with electric power systems, industry practices, and automation practices and philosophies

Good knowledge of electric power system protection and control, integration and/or automation and communications applications

Working knowledge of electric power system design, studies, information and communication technology and protective relay applications

Willing to travel both domestically and internationally a minimum of 25% based on focus area

Strong writing, documentation, and speaking skills

Ability to learn new skills and assume new responsibilities

Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment

Background check results satisfactory to SEL

Negative drug test result(s)

Preferred Qualifications
Engineer in Training certificate
Electrical utility, industrial plant, consulting engineering, or system integrator experience
Project engineering experience
Working knowledge of Vision or other project management tracking software

Focus Area = Automation

• software, integration and automation, industrial controls, PLCs, industry protocols (IEC-61850, DNP, Modbus), Ethernet systems, protocol analyzers, and industry SCADA practices.

About our team:

The SEL ES Special Protection Systems team implements advanced microgrid and power management solutions for customers around the world. Leveraging the SEL RTAC platform and POWERMAX Power Management System, our team delivers reliable automation and control solutions that optimize generation, manage load demand, and maintain electrical system stability. Our expertise spans a wide range of distributed energy resources, including gas and steam turbines, battery energy storage systems (BESS), photovoltaic (PV) systems, reciprocating engines, and utility interconnections. Through innovative automation and control strategies, we help customers operate their power systems safer, more reliable, and more economical.

Location - Pullman, WA

This position is 100% on-site. Pullman, WA is nestled in Eastern Washington, offering an exceptional quality of life. Embrace the charm of small-town living with spacious surroundings, no traffic hassles, and easy access to outdoor adventures in nearby mountains, rivers, and forests. Plus, benefit from excellent schools and universities in the area.

Competitive pay. Superior benefits. Inspiring work.

People are at the core of our company and we hire employee-owners. We welcome you to learn more about how we support employees.

• We’re 100% employee owned. Retirement benefits include an employer funded stock ownership plan (ESOP) and personal 401(k) options.
• We offer top tier medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
• We recognize the importance of a healthy life balance and offer: 10 paid holidays, annual vacation accrual starting at 12 days, 9 paid sick days, and paid family and medical leave that covers 90% of your pay.
• We foster growth and development of our employees through avenues such as STEM courses, apprenticeships, tuition assistance, and engineering development programs.
• Ask our team about other benefits including wellness, fertility, adoption, and flexible spending benefits.

Pay Range

Associate Project Engineer/Project Engineer I $84,200 - 124,500

per year. We are open to reviewing candidates with more or less experience and the salary range may differ if filled at a different level. Our ranges are determined by job, responsibility, and location. We base our starting pay offer and title on location and job-related factors such as candidate experience, training, knowledge, and skills.

Communication with Applicants

We communicate with all applicants. If you do not receive a response about your application, please check your SPAM filter or reach out to us at View email address on aiapply.co.

SEL is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled.