Relay Technician
About the job
- At least 10 years of relay technician experience.
- A strong understanding of protection relays and high-voltage protection.
- Working knowledge of high-voltage potential transformers, current transformers, high-voltage breakers, and SCADA systems.
- Skill in troubleshooting and repairing substation relaying and control equipment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
- An Associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering Technology or a related field.
- Ability to read manufacturer manuals and prepare commissioning checklists.
- Ability to develop commissioning plans and outage sequencing schedules.
- Ability to evaluate relay protection schemes and perform design changes.
- Ability to program, test, and validate relay settings and control circuits.
- Ability to perform fault testing and reconcile results.
- Ability to safely energize substations and direct field operations.
- Ability to conduct current and potential transformer testing.
- Ability to interpret schematics and verify system inputs and outputs.
- Familiarity with symmetrical components, phasors, and zones of protection.
- Experience with digital fault recorders and SCADA systems.
- Knowledge of RTU, PLC, and substation integration hardware and software.
- Proficiency in DNP3, MODBUS, RS-232/485, and Ethernet communication protocols.
- Ability to perform EMS point verification with utility operating personnel.
- Familiarity with metering quantities, transducers, and control circuit lamping tests.
- Take the lead on substation testing and inspection projects.
- Analyze wiring diagrams, schematics, and engineering documents.
- Act as an on-site subject matter expert.
- Oversee quality and safety standards during testing.
- Detect and troubleshoot issues at substation sites.
- Trainability in various RTU software packages.
About the company
Excel Engineering provides testing services for all powertrain types, including ICE, EV, HEV, hydrogen, and battery systems. Its facilities feature over 40 engine testing cells across three locations, testing up to 5500 HP, and chassis dynos, supporting emissions testing, regulatory compliance, and development work. It also offers battery performance, environmental, and abuse testing, as well as service accumulation and DV/PV testing for OEMs during ramp-ups. The company differentiates itself with a broad, specialized suite of powertrain test capabilities—covering emissions, HV battery systems, e-motors, power transmission, and certification testing for ATV, SXS, motorcycles, and other vehicles under 40 CFR standards—combined with custom test development in collaboration with customers. Its goal is to deliver high-quality, cost-effective testing solutions that accelerate product development and ensure regulatory compliance across traditional and emerging powertrain technologies.
Company Size
51-200
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Des Moines, Iowa
Founded
2002
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Fusion's January 2026 investment provides capital for scaling and facility expansion.
- Excel's blue-chip OEM customer base supports repeat testing programs across vehicle lifecycles.
- The Detroit-area Ricardo partnership and battery-testing expansion widen reach into hybrid and EV markets.
What critics are saying
- Fusion's acquisition signals Excel needed outside capital to fund growth and modernization.
- A new Q2 2026 chassis dynamometer launch demands execution; delays would hit OEM credibility.
- Powertrain and emissions testing faces EV transition pressure, threatening core engine-testing demand by 2027.
What makes Excel Engineering unique
- Excel Engineering's 2002-founded testing platform spans engines, batteries, powertrains, and certification.
- Doug Sobotka kept control after Fusion's January 6, 2026 acquisition, preserving continuity.
- Its Mount Ayr Battery Tech Center offers 30+ cells and 2,000-volt testing.
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Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
401(k) Company Match
Paid Vacation
Flexible Work Hours
Wellness Program
Professional Development Budget
Employee Referral Bonus
Growth & Insights and Company News
6 month growth
1%1 year growth
0%2 year growth
0%Excel Engineering, Inc. (“Excel” or “the Company”), a North American provider of testing services for engine, powertrain, battery systems and fuel types acro...