Automation Commissioning Engineer

Hitachi•Raleigh, NC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Automation Commissioning Engineer is responsible for the testing, integration, and commissioning of substation automation systems, with a strong focus on Hitachi Energy MicroSCADA and IEC 61850-based solutions. This role ensures that automation systems are installed, configured, and validated according to project specifications, safety standards, and customer requirements. The position involves on-site work and collaboration with engineering teams, project managers, and customers. Key responsibilities for field service include, but are not limited to, the following: Commissioning & Testing Perform Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT) for substation automation systems. Configure and test SCADA systems, HMI interfaces, and RTU logic. Validate communication protocols (IEC 61850, Modbus, DNP3, GOOSE) and ensure interoperability. Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues during commissioning and start-up phases. Prepare and execute detailed commissioning plans and procedures. Conduct point‑to‑point testing, alarm/event verification, and control command validation. Verify system behavior under redundancy conditions (PRP/HSR networks, redundant servers/gateways). Integration & Configuration Integrate automation systems with protection and control schemes. Configure MicroSCADA applications and ensure proper system functionality. Verify system performance and compliance with cybersecurity requirements. Support integration of IEC 61850 SCL files (ICD/CID/SCD) and automated dataset/report configuration. Documentation & Reporting Prepare commissioning reports, test records, and as-built documentation. Maintain accurate logs of system configurations and changes. Report non‑conformances into TMT tool and support resolution and documentation of corrective actions. Customer & Team Collaboration Work closely with project managers, engineers, and customers during commissioning phases. Provide technical support and training to customers and site personnel. Participate in meetings to discuss commissioning progress and resolve issues. Health, Safety & Compliance Ensure all commissioning activities comply with company HSE policies and site safety requirements. Promote a culture of safety and integrity during on-site work. Participate in daily toolbox talks, risk assessments, and LOTO procedures as applicable.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or related field.
3–7 years of experience in commissioning substation automation systems.
Hands-on experience with Hitachi Energy MicroSCADA and IEC 61850 configuration.
Strong knowledge of SCADA systems, communication protocols, and networking.
Familiarity with cybersecurity standards for automation systems.
Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
Willingness to travel extensively for on-site commissioning.
Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively with customers and multidisciplinary teams.

Nice To Haves

Experience with tools such as IEC 61850 analyzers, gateway configuration platforms, and test instrumentation (OMICRON CMC,Doble etc.) considered an asset.

Responsibilities

Perform Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT) for substation automation systems.
Configure and test SCADA systems, HMI interfaces, and RTU logic.
Validate communication protocols (IEC 61850, Modbus, DNP3, GOOSE) and ensure interoperability.
Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues during commissioning and start-up phases.
Prepare and execute detailed commissioning plans and procedures.
Conduct point‑to‑point testing, alarm/event verification, and control command validation.
Verify system behavior under redundancy conditions (PRP/HSR networks, redundant servers/gateways).
Integrate automation systems with protection and control schemes.
Configure MicroSCADA applications and ensure proper system functionality.
Verify system performance and compliance with cybersecurity requirements.
Support integration of IEC 61850 SCL files (ICD/CID/SCD) and automated dataset/report configuration.
Prepare commissioning reports, test records, and as-built documentation.
Maintain accurate logs of system configurations and changes.
Report non‑conformances into TMT tool and support resolution and documentation of corrective actions.
Work closely with project managers, engineers, and customers during commissioning phases.
Provide technical support and training to customers and site personnel.
Participate in meetings to discuss commissioning progress and resolve issues.
Ensure all commissioning activities comply with company HSE policies and site safety requirements.
Promote a culture of safety and integrity during on-site work.
Participate in daily toolbox talks, risk assessments, and LOTO procedures as applicable.