Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer (ABB 800xA – Substation Automation)

Location: Singapore
Employment Type: Contract / Project-Based (1 Year Contract)
Industry: Power Generation / Transmission & Distribution / Utilities
Work Arrangement: Onsite / Project-Based

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to support substation automation projects within the power generation and utilities sector in Singapore.

The role focuses on ABB 800xA–based Substation Automation Systems (SAS), supporting activities across engineering, configuration, testing, commissioning, and site integration for high-voltage substations and power plants.

The successful candidate will work closely with protection & control, commissioning, and site teams to ensure the safe, reliable, and compliant delivery of automation systems in line with project specifications and industry standards.

Key Responsibilities

Substation Automation & ABB 800xA

• Engineer, configure, and support ABB 800xA Substation Automation Systems

• Configure SCADA/HMI screens, alarms, events, and system databases

• Support integration of substation equipment into the automation system

Communication Protocols & Integration

• Implement and troubleshoot industrial communication protocols including:

  • IEC 61850 (GOOSE, MMS)

  • Modbus (RTU/TCP)

  • OPC and Ethernet-based networks

• Support signal mapping and data exchange between IEDs, relays, RTUs, and control systems

Testing & Commissioning

• Participate in Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT)

• Support substation commissioning activities, including:

  • Point-to-point checks

  • Functional testing

  • System validation during energisation

• Troubleshoot automation, communication, and SCADA-related issues during site execution

Coordination & Documentation

• Work closely with protection & control engineers, commissioning teams, and site operations

• Interface with OEMs, EPC partners, and internal stakeholders to resolve technical issues

• Prepare and update engineering and commissioning documentation, including test reports and as-built records

Qualifications & Experience

Essential Requirements

• Diploma or Degree in Electrical, Electronics, Automation, or Control Engineering

• 5–10 years of experience in automation engineering for substations or power plants

• Hands-on experience with ABB 800xA in a substation or power environment

• Practical experience with IEC 61850-based Substation Automation Systems

• Working knowledge of GOOSE messaging and Modbus communication

• Experience supporting FAT, SAT, and site commissioning

• Ability to work independently in a site-based project environment

Desirable Requirements

• Exposure to protection & control systems and relay interfaces

• Experience working on HV/MV substations, switchgear, or grid-connected power plants

• Knowledge of OT cybersecurity concepts such as network segmentation and firewalls

• Prior experience working in Singapore or similar regulated environments

Soft Skills & Attributes

• Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills

• Clear and effective communication with multidisciplinary teams

• Hands-on, practical approach to engineering and commissioning

• Ability to work under project schedules and site constraints

Equal Opportunity Statement (TAFEP Compliance)

We are committed to fair and merit-based employment practices. All qualified candidates will be considered for employment based on skills, experience, and job-related requirements, regardless of age, gender, nationality, race, religion, marital status, or disability.