Senior Controls Engineer – Critical Power -- Switchgear & Power Systems in Hackettstown, New Jersey at JDC Power Systems Inc

JDC Power Systems is seeking a highly experienced Senior Switchgear Engineer for our Hackettstown, NJ office. This role is critical to the design, application, and execution of low- and medium-voltage switchgear systems for mission-critical power applications.

The successful candidate will serve as a technical authority on switchgear systems, supporting design, manufacturing, and field execution. This includes ownership of complex switchgear lineups, transfer schemes, and system-level integration across electrical, controls, and mechanical disciplines.

This position requires deep experience in switchgear design, commissioning, and real-world system behavior, as well as the ability to lead technical decision-making and support high-visibility projects.

Responsibilities and Duties
Lead design and application of low- and medium-voltage switchgear systems (480V to 38kV)

Develop and review one-line diagrams, system architectures, and equipment layouts

Define and validate bus configurations, breaker schemes, and transfer systems

Configure and program protective relay logic and verify functionality

Support and guide the development of control schemes and PLC-based transfer logic

Review and approve mechanical and electrical designs for switchgear lineups

Serve as technical lead during Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site

Acceptance Testing (SAT)
Lead or support commissioning activities, including system validation and troubleshooting

Review customer specifications and ensure compliance with design intent and standards

Provide technical support to manufacturing, field service, and project teams

Act as a subject matter expert for switchgear performance, reliability, and failure modes

Assist in the development of standards, best practices, and internal engineering guidelines

Support customer interactions, including design reviews and technical discussions

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or equivalent experience

7+ years of experience in switchgear design, application engineering, or commissioning

Strong background in critical power systems, data centers, or industrial power distribution

Demonstrated experience with complex switchgear systems, transfer schemes, and high-reliability applications

Experience supporting projects through design, manufacturing, testing, and field commissioning

Required Skills
Deep expertise in low- and medium-voltage switchgear systems and architectures

Strong understanding of bus bar systems, breaker coordination, and protection schemes

Experience with PLC-controlled transfer schemes and system automation concepts

In-depth knowledge of protective studies

Strong foundation of protection relays and short circuit coordination studies

Ability to read, develop, and review one-line diagrams, schematics, and equipment layouts

Strong troubleshooting skills with real-world power systems

Ability to lead technical discussions and make sound engineering decisions

Strong communication and leadership skills

Ability to work independently and manage multiple complex projects

Ability to pass background checks and comply with drug-free workplace policies

Preferred Skills
Experience with data center power systems and redundant architectures

Familiarity with protection relays, power meters, and system monitoring

Experience with commissioning methodologies, power quality analysis, and infrared inspections

Exposure to PLC and SCADA systems (design or support level)

Familiarity with IEEE, NEC, and industry standards for switchgear

An understanding of UL compliance and how it is applied

Previous experience with leading teams and managing deadlines

Location
Hackettstown, NJ

Travel Requirements
Approximately 10-25% travel is required

Travel to customer sites and manufacturer locations may increase with seniority

Weekend and off-hours work required when supporting testing or commissioning

Provide on-call technical support when needed

Out-of-area extended travel arrangements provided by JDC

Expenses related to travel and meals while traveling are covered at cost
JDC Power Systems, LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where all employment decisions are made on an individual basis without regard to characteristics protected by federal, state, or local law.

JDC Power Systems, LLC believes that supporting a respectful and inclusive workplace is critical to our success. JDC Power Systems, LLC is committed to making our application process accessible to all applicants and will provide reasonable accommodations upon request as required.