Hanson Values

Integrity | Commitment | Quality | Relationships | Innovation

If you’re looking for a firm that encourages innovative thinking and challenges you every day, with an opportunity to learn and advance, a career at Hanson is right for you. The belief in sustainability within our company’s practices creates a focus on client success and partnerships that are important to our communities and our environment.

Power Controls Engineer (Power Industry)
Position Type: Full-Time
Industry Focus: Power Delivery / Transmission & Distribution / Substations / SCADA & Communications

About the Role

Hanson Professional Services Inc. is seeking a Power Controls Engineer to support the design, implementation, and integration of control systems and communication networks for electric power infrastructure projects.

This position is not a project management or project controls role. Instead, the Power Controls Engineer provides specialized technical expertise that complements substation, transmission, and distribution engineering teams. The role focuses on communication and control interfaces among substations, transmission systems, utilities, and control centers, including SCADA systems, protective-relaying communications, and fiber‑optic networks.

The Power Controls Engineer works closely with substation engineers, transmission engineers, civil engineers, structural engineers, and utility clients to ensure reliable, secure, and coordinated operation of power system control and monitoring infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

Power System Controls & Communications

• Design and support SCADA, substation automation, and power system communication architectures.

  Develop control and monitoring schemes that support coordination between substations, transmission systems, and operations centers.

  Support integration of field devices, including:

  IEDs (Intelligent Electronic Devices)

  RTUs and PLCs

  Protective relays

  Assist with commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting control and communication systems.

  SCADA & Network Integration

  • Support SCADA point lists, I/O mapping, control logic, and alarm philosophies.

    Coordinate communication protocols such as:

    DNP3

    IEC 61850

    Modbus

    Participate in network design involving:

    Fiberoptic communication systems

    Ethernet and IP-based networks

    Redundant communication paths and cybersecurity considerations

    Coordinate with utilities and IT/OT stakeholders on control system interfaces and data exchange.

    Collaboration with Engineering Teams

    • Work in addition to (and in coordination with) substation engineers—not as a replacement, proposing technical depth in controls and communications.

      Coordinate with:

      Substation, transmission, and distribution engineers

      Civil, structural, and electrical engineering teams

      Utility operations and control center personnel

      Review drawings and specifications to ensure proper integration of controls, communications, and protection systems.

      Design Documentation & Technical Support

      • Prepare and review technical deliverables, including:

        Control schematics and wiring diagrams

        Communication one‑lines and network diagrams

        SCADA architecture drawings

        Technical specifications and standards

        Support responses to technical questions during design, construction, and commissioning.

        Assist with upgrades, expansions, and modernization of existing control and communication systems.

        Power Industry Applications

        Support a variety of power delivery projects, including:

        Transmission and substation control systems

        Utility SCADA and EMS/DMS interfaces

        Grid modernization and automation initiatives

        Integration of new substations or transmission assets into existing control networks

        Required Qualifications

        • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a closely related field.

          Minimum 5–10 years of experience in power system controls, substation automation, or SCADA within the power or utility industry.

          Experience working with:

          Substation or transmission projects

          Power system communication and control systems

          Working knowledge of SCADA systems, protective relaying communications, and utility operational requirements.

          Ability to collaborate across multi‑disciplinary engineering teams.

          Preferred Qualifications

          • Professional Engineer (PE) license or progress toward licensure.

            Experience with:

            Investor‑Owned Utilities (IOUs)

            Public power agencies or electric cooperatives

            Familiarity with:

            IEC 61850 architectures

            Fiberoptic network design and troubleshooting

            Substation automation systems

            Experience supporting commissioning, testing, or system cutovers.

            Understanding of cybersecurity considerations for utility control systems.

            Soft Skills & Competencies

            • Strong technical problem‑solving skills

              Clear written and verbal communication

              Ability to work independently while coordinating closely with others

              Detail‑oriented approach to technical design and documentation

              Collaborative, solutions‑focused mindset

              Working at Hanson

              • Employee‑owned firm offering long‑term stability and career growth

                Collaborative, multi‑disciplinary engineering environment

                Opportunities to work with power utilities across multiple regions

                Occasional travel to support projects or client coordination

                Valid driver’s license required

                Salary range: $105,000 - $160,000

                Benefits

                Our focus on people means we offer a generous benefits program to help you create a solid foundation for health and security throughout your career, including:

                • Competitive compensation

                • Performance bonuses

                • 401(k) with matching contribution

                • Employee Stock Ownership Plan

                • Comprehensive health & well-being plans

                • Financial wellness plans

                • Work-life balance programs

                Want to know more? Visit our benefits page for all the details.

                Culture

                We understand that selecting a job is about more than the day-to-day tasks. It’s important to feel like you belong and safe to grow and progress along your career path. You’ll find that at Hanson. We have an inclusive, diverse workforce awaiting to connect with you and numerous opportunities to cultivate your career, including:

                • Monthly educational webinars

                • Leadership training

                • Lunch & learn development sessions

                • 24/7 access to thousands of skill-building courses

                • Mentorship opportunities

                • Award-winning internship program

                • Employee recognition

                • And so much more!

                AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EEO — EMPLOYER

                We do not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or agencies/staffing firms. Resumes are only accepted from recruiters and agency/staffing firms if a signed agreement is in place at the inception of the recruiting effort and authorized for a specified position.