Lead Application Engineer - IEC 61850/Communications

Job Description Summary

Become part of a winning team and help to deliver the Green Energy transition.

Networks and Communications Engineers in the Global Customer Support L3 team are Engineers specialised in grid automation, and are fully engaged in the primary function of the Applications & Support team, namely the Level 3 (L3) technical support to GA Sales / Business Development teams, Product Management and Products R&D.

You are expected to demonstrate technical leadership, teamwork capability and the ability to keep up with evolving technologies in the grid automation domain, versatile in adapting new product platforms and mentor the junior members of the team and other colleagues.

In this role, you will utilise your experience or expertise to solve problems, develop and execute team and self-objectives, and possess the ability to effect short-term and some long-term business goals. Customer interactions are integral to the role, as a domain expert representing the Product Line.

Job Description

Responsibilities & Accountabilities

• Deliver Level 3 technical support (pre- and post-sales) for substation automation products.
• Troubleshoot critical comms issues — serial, Ethernet, and IEC 61850 — across platforms like P40, P40A, UR, 650, MM, 8 series, and legacy systems.
• Investigate and resolve customer complaints (ACT), produce 8D/technical reports.
• Train and support global customers, regional teams, and internal stakeholders.
• Lead or support technical events, pilots, and roadshows with customers.
• Collaborate with R&D and Product Line teams to influence product evolution.
• Participate in standards and industry committees to guide future technologies.
  
  

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Communications, Network Engineering, or a related field — or equivalent experience.
• In-depth expertise in communication protocols like serial, Ethernet, and IEC 61850, along with substation automation systems.
• Proven experience working with communication protocols for numerical protection devices (e.g., MiCOM, UR, etc.) — your expertise will directly impact cutting-edge grid automation solutions.
• Cybersecurity knowledge relevant to substation automation systems and IEDs is highly valuable, ensuring you stay ahead in a rapidly evolving field.
• Hands-on experience in the industrial communications space within the power systems domain — or advanced degrees in lieu of years of experience.
• Fluency in English required, with any additional languages considered a bonus.
  
  

Key Skills & Characteristics

• Strong communicator: You thrive in customer-facing roles and can easily translate complex technical information into clear, actionable insights.
• Leadership experience: Whether it’s leading a small project team or mentoring others, you take pride in guiding and supporting your colleagues to success.
• Collaboration: You enjoy working with cross-functional teams across different locations and cultures, sharing knowledge, and learning from others.
• Multi-tasker: You excel at balancing several projects at once, meeting deadlines, and adapting to shifting priorities.
• Problem solver: Complex technical challenges don’t faze you. You’re driven by finding innovative solutions and overcoming obstacles.
• Travel opportunities: Enjoy occasional global travel to work directly with customers.
• Highly adaptable: You’re comfortable working in a fast-paced environment where change is constant, and you're always ready to pivot and tackle new challenges.
  
  

At GE Vernova - Grid Automation, you will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects that shape the future of energy. We offer a collaborative environment where your expertise will be valued, and your contributions will make a tangible impact. Join us and be part of a team that is driving innovation and excellence in control systems.

About GE Grid Solutions

At GE Grid Solutions we are electrifying the world with advanced grid technologies. As leaders in the energy space our goal is to accelerate the transition for a more energy efficient grid to full fill the needs of tomorrow. With a focus on growth and sustainability GE Grid Solutions plays a pivotable role in integrating Renewables onto the grid to drive to carbon neutral. In Grid Solutions we help enable the transition for a greener more reliable Grid. GE Grid Solutions has the most advanced and comprehensive product and solutions portfolio within the energy sector.

Why We Come To Work

At GE Renewable Energy, our engineers are always up for the challenge - and we’re always driven to find the best solution. Our projects are unique and interesting, and you’ll need to bring a solution-focused, positive approach to each one to do your best. Surrounded by committed, loyal colleagues, if you can dare to bring your ingenuity and desire to make an impact, you’ll be exposed to game-changing, diverse projects that truly allow you to play your part in the energy transition.

What We Offer

A key role in a dynamic, international working environment with a large degree of flexibility of work agreements

Competitive benefits, and great development opportunities - including private health insurance.

Additional Information

Relocation Assistance Provided: No