Lead IEC61850 Application Engineer

Job Description Summary

Responsible for designing , developing and testing Embedded Software (Firmware), platforms and systems that control and runs on devices that need to be tailored to the needs of the hardware that it has to control and run on (i.e. directly controls the real time functions of a physical device such as motors, alternators, engines, valves, fans, and other devices and products). Typically requires a deep understanding of the characteristics of the physical device being controlled, the realtime functions it is expected to perform and the ability to design, develop, implement, and test the logic and software required to realize the realtime functionality. Usually tailored for products and services across various P&Ls. Impacts departmental operations and responsible for planning/execution. The role has some autonomy but is focused on execution of activities within an operating discipline covered by standard functional practices and procedures. Some judgment may be required but this is typically with guidance.

Job Description

The Lead IEC 61850 Application Engineer will be responsible for defining requirements and enhancing product features for an IEC 61850-compliant System Configuration Tool, working closely with global engineering teams. This role is critical to the development and delivery of business-critical software that meets product requirements and timelines for future commercial HVDC and substation automation projects.

The ideal candidate will bring strong hands-on expertise in IEC 61850 engineering, with particular emphasis on the IEC 61850 standard, its relevant parts, Substation Configuration Language (SCL), and configuration tool concepts such as SCT and ICT. The role also requires a high-level understanding of the Java technology stack used in enterprise-grade engineering tools.

• Roles and Responsibilities

• Drive sustenance, enhancement, and feature development of an IEC 61850 System Configuration Tool.
• Develop strong functional understanding of IEC 61850 engineering workflows and configuration tool requirements.
• Define, analyze, and document product requirements related to IEC 61850-based system engineering and interoperability.
• Work closely with global controls and software development teams to coordinate feature design and implementation.
• Stay updated with the latest developments in IEC 61850 standards, editions, and industry adoption trends.
• Contribute to the implementation and validation of features supporting SCL-based engineering and multi-vendor interoperability.
• Support integration of software packages with existing systems and sub-systems.
• Prepare unit test and regression test specifications, release packages, and supporting templates.
• Support software release testing and validation.
• Prepare formal and informal engineering documentation, including design documents, requirement specifications, and release reports.

• Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Engineering, Technology, or a related discipline.
• Extensive years of hands-on experience working with IEC 61850 protocol and substation automation systems.
• Strong understanding of the IEC 61850 standard and relevant parts, with practical awareness of their application in digital substations and automation systems.
• Good understanding of SCL files, including engineering concepts related to ICD, CID, SCD, SSD, and IID files.
• Experience or strong understanding of System Configuration Tool (SCT) and IED Configuration Tool (ICT) concepts and their role in IEC 61850 engineering workflows.
• Experience working with IEC 61850 multi-vendor devices and interoperability requirements.
• Awareness or experience with IEC 61850-9-2 Process Bus implementation.
• High-level understanding of Java technology stack, preferably in the context of engineering software or tool development.
• Familiarity with Eclipse-based frameworks such as Eclipse Common Platform, Eclipse Modeling Framework (EMF), and Graphic Modeling Framework (GMF) is an advantage.
• Experience with substation automation communication protocols.
• Knowledge of UCA test procedures and test tools such as Wireshark and MMS client tools.
• Understanding of time synchronization protocols such as PTP and IRIG-B.
• Understanding of redundancy protocols such as PRP and HSR.
• Strong analytical mindset, ownership, and a proactive attitude.

• Desired Characteristics
• Experience with IEC 61850 configuration tools, preferably Helinks STS or similar tools.
• Good understanding of IEC 61850 engineering lifecycle, system configuration, and device configuration practices.
• Exposure to Embedded C/C++, MATLAB/Simulink, or other auto-coded controls software is a plus.
• Familiarity with modern cybersecurity concepts such as static analysis and digital signatures.
• Demonstrated technical problem-solving ability.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven experience working effectively with global engineering teams.
• Self-starter, results-oriented, and collaborative team player.
• Familiarity with Agile development practices such as Scrum.
• Knowledge of power electronics control systems and HVDC domain is an advantage.