Graduate Engineer A (Relay Engineering)

City of Austin • Austin, TX

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

Austin Energy is seeking a Graduate Engineer A to join its Relay Engineering Team. The role supports the reliability and safety of the City of Austin’s power grid through engineering design, protection, and control work. Under the direct supervision of a Professional Engineer, the employee performs routine engineering assignments requiring limited judgment, using established methods, procedures, standards, and criteria to develop experience toward professional engineer licensure.

The position includes preparing detailed construction drawing packages and supporting microprocessor relay installations and troubleshooting in the field. The engineer collaborates with Engineering, Construction, and Project Management colleagues and may coordinate technical information with other departments, government agencies, contractors, consultants, customers, and the public. The work combines design tasks with field inspections and practical problem-solving.

The position is based at 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, Texas, with hybrid work available. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., for a 40-hour work week. This is a critical employee position; schedules may be modified and employees may be reassigned during extraordinary situations or emergencies to provide essential services. The role is classified as exempt and is not eligible for overtime compensation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Engineering or a field related to the job.
• Knowledge of engineering and design principles applicable to the relevant fields.
• Knowledge of mathematical techniques such as trigonometry, calculus, and coordinate geometry.
• Knowledge of modern methods, materials, and techniques of the assigned discipline.
• Knowledge of leadership roles and responsibilities.
• Knowledge of the applicability of established engineering principles and methods.
• Knowledge of computer software programs applicable to the position.
• Knowledge of preparing cost estimates.
• Oral and written technical and/or general communication skills.
• Ability to perform engineering calculations and analyze engineering problems.
• Ability to read and comprehend simple specifications, plans, and shop drawings.
• Ability to interpret and make decisions in conformance with established policies and practices.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with coworkers and the public.
• Ability to travel to multiple sites as part of regular job duties.
• Must provide proof of valid work authorization at hire and maintain work authorization throughout employment.
• Must complete a criminal background investigation and NERC Personal Risk Assessment.
• Must provide professional reference and employment verification information if selected as a top candidate.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of and experience with power system protection.
• Knowledge of and experience interpreting single-line drawings, AC/DC schematics, and wiring schematics.
• Knowledge of protective relay functions.
• Ability to travel to multiple sites as part of regular job duties.

Responsibilities

• Assist with preparing and maintaining design drawings, diagrams, charts, databases, plans, and permits under the supervision of a Professional Engineer.
• Develop proposals concerning project impacts; perform preliminary and final designs and/or prepare design criteria for assigned projects.
• Assist in preparing standards, equipment specifications, and design and test procedures related to engineering standardization and policies.
• Assist in evaluating and recommending job safety procedures.
• Coordinate and provide technical information under the guidance of a Professional Engineer to customers and internal and external contacts, including administrative, engineering, and construction personnel, government agencies, contractors, consultants, and the public.
• Prepare drawings and maps using computerized software, ink, or pencil drafting, and provide technical advice and guidance for assigned work or projects.
• Develop, analyze, and generate technical reports, correspondence, and official documents.
• Assist in preparing preliminary, periodic, and final estimates of quantities, materials, equipment, labor, and facilities for budgets, programs, schedules, contract payments, and other project purposes.
• Conduct field inspections of contractor work to verify compliance with plans and specifications.
• Draft and recommend contract change orders and payments for approval.
• Perform statistical analyses to ensure specifications meet established guidelines.
• Support and troubleshoot microprocessor relay installations in the field.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Construction, and Project Management colleagues to support projects from design through execution.

Benefits

• Low-cost medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Paid leave time.
• Competitive retirement plan and access to the City of Austin Employees’ Retirement System.
• Career development and professional development opportunities.
• Work-life balance programs.
• Wellness programs and mental health support.
• Access to on-site fitness centers.
• Access to public transit and bike-friendly transportation infrastructure.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level