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.