IEC 61850
IEC 61850 is a global standard for communication in electrical substations and power systems. Think of it as a common language that allows different pieces of electrical equipment to talk to each other, similar to how people speaking the same language can understand each other better. It's widely used in modern power stations, smart grids, and renewable energy systems to help control and monitor electrical equipment. When you see this on a resume, it usually means the candidate has experience with modern electrical systems and smart grid technology.
Examples in Resumes
Configured and tested IEC 61850 communication systems for three major substation automation projects
Led team implementing IEC 61850 protocols in smart grid development
Designed protection and control systems using IEC 61850 standards for power distribution
Typical job title: "Protection and Control Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Protection and Control Engineers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you manage a large-scale IEC 61850 implementation project?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should discuss experience coordinating between different equipment vendors, managing system integration, ensuring cyber security, and handling project timelines and team coordination.
Q: What challenges have you faced when retrofitting older substations with IEC 61850 technology?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that show practical experience with upgrading legacy systems, managing compatibility issues, and maintaining power supply reliability during upgrades.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Explain how IEC 61850 helps in substation automation?
Expected Answer: They should explain in simple terms how the standard helps different devices communicate and work together in a power system, with examples from their experience.
Q: What testing procedures do you use for IEC 61850 systems?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic testing methods to ensure reliable communication between devices and system safety, showing familiarity with common testing tools.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the basic purpose of IEC 61850?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that it's a communication standard that helps electrical equipment from different manufacturers work together in power systems.
Q: What types of equipment typically use IEC 61850?
Expected Answer: Should mention common devices like protection relays, transformers, and control systems in substations that use this standard to communicate.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of electrical substations
- Familiarity with control and protection systems
- Basic knowledge of communication protocols
- Ability to read electrical drawings
Mid (2-5 years)
- Configuration of IEC 61850 devices
- Testing and commissioning experience
- Understanding of cyber security basics
- Experience with multiple vendor systems
Senior (5+ years)
- System architecture design
- Project management experience
- Integration of complex systems
- Troubleshooting expertise
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with electrical substations
- Lack of understanding about basic electrical protection concepts
- No knowledge of power system operations
- Unable to explain basic communication concepts in power systems
Related Terms
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