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Distribution Substation Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The E Group

Be Seen First

Substation Designer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

... Distribution electrical Substations and supporting the company's design criteria and ... OSHA safe operating practices is preferred. · Ability to create electrical Substation Physical ...

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Primoris

Substation CAD Designer (Remote)

Lewisville, TX · On-site

$25.25 - $34.75/hr

... of operating experience, Primoris Power Delivery services include engineering and design ... transmission, distribution, substation, wireless communication, and storm restoration. Our ...

Primoris

Substation CAD Designer (Remote)

Lewisville, TX · Remote

$25 - $34.25/hr

With over 70 years of operating experience, Primoris Power Delivery services include engineering ... transmission, distribution, substation, wireless communication, and storm restoration. Our ...

PRIMORIS USA

Substation CAD Designer (Remote)

Lewisville, TX · On-site +1

$25 - $34.25/hr

With over 70 years of operating experience, Primoris Power Delivery services include engineering ... transmission, distribution, substation, wireless communication, and storm restoration. Our ...

Johnson Service Group

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Substation Physical Designer 2

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$30 - $33/hr

Experience in Transmission and /or Distribution Substation Operations for an electric power utility ... OSHA safe operating practices is preferred. Ability to create electrical Substation Physical ...

Leidos

Substation Physical Designer

$40.30K - $72.85K/yr

... and distribution, substation and transmission line projects nationwide. Your Main Objective ... Our Power Delivery Services Team is the go-to for utilities and mobile operators who need reliable ...

Leidos

Lead Substation Designer

$87.10K/yr

... and distribution, substation and transmission line projects nationwide. Your Main Objective ... Our Power Delivery Services Team is the go-to for utilities and mobile operators who need reliable ...

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How much do distribution substation operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution substation operator in the United States is $48.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.19 and $51.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Distribution Substation Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Distribution Substation Operator, you need strong knowledge of electrical systems, safety protocols, and troubleshooting skills, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical training in electrical or power systems. Familiarity with SCADA systems, switchgear, and protective relays is essential, and relevant certifications like NERC or OSHA may be required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of substations, minimizing downtime and protecting both personnel and equipment.

What are some common challenges faced by Distribution Substation Operators, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Distribution Substation Operators often face challenges such as responding to unexpected equipment failures, managing high-pressure situations during outages, and staying alert during long or irregular shifts. New hires can prepare by becoming familiar with standard operating procedures, safety protocols, and emergency response drills. Building strong communication skills is also important, as operators regularly coordinate with field crews, dispatchers, and engineers to ensure reliable power distribution and quick resolution of issues.

What are Distribution Substation Operators?

Distribution Substation Operators are skilled professionals responsible for monitoring and controlling the equipment that distributes electricity from power plants to homes and businesses. They operate, inspect, and maintain substation equipment such as transformers, circuit breakers, and switches. Their main duties include ensuring the reliable and safe flow of electricity, performing routine maintenance, and responding to outages or emergencies. These operators play a critical role in maintaining the stability and efficiency of the electrical power grid.

What are the 4 types of substations?

Distribution substation operators work with four main types of substations: step-up, step-down, switching, and service substations. These types differ in their functions, such as transforming voltage levels or switching circuits, and require knowledge of electrical systems and safety protocols. Understanding these substation types is essential for maintaining reliable power distribution.

What jobs make 3000 a month without a degree?

Distribution Substation Operators can earn around $3,000 or more per month with experience and on-the-job training, often without requiring a college degree. Other roles such as commercial truck drivers, sales representatives, and certain skilled trades like HVAC technicians may also reach this income level through certifications and experience. These jobs typically rely on technical skills, certifications, or apprenticeships rather than formal degrees.

What is the difference between Distribution Substation Operator vs Lineworker?

AspectDistribution Substation OperatorLineworker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, possibly certification in substation operationsHigh school diploma, apprenticeship, journeyman lineman certification
Work EnvironmentIndoor and outdoor substation facilities, controlled environmentOutdoor, on utility poles or underground lines, often in variable weather
Industry UsageElectric utility companies, power distributionElectric utility companies, power distribution and transmission

Distribution Substation Operators focus on managing and maintaining electrical equipment within substations, ensuring reliable power flow. Lineworkers install, repair, and maintain overhead and underground power lines. While both roles work in the electric utility industry and require technical skills, their work environments and specific responsibilities differ significantly.

More about Distribution Substation Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Distribution Substation Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Distribution Substation Operator jobs are:
Distribution Substation Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Distribution Substation Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 29% Full Time, 68% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,493 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Substation Physical Designer II

4pconsultinginc

Birmingham, AL • On-site

Contractor

Posted yesterday

Job description

Position: Substation Physical Designer II

Location: Birmingham, AL
Duration: 3 Years
Travel: Approximately 25%
Work Environment: Office / Remote / Field Site Visits

Client: Southern Company Services.

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Substation Physical Designer II to support the design of Transmission and Distribution electrical substations. This position is responsible for creating and modifying 2D drawings and 3D models for substation projects while supporting design standards, safety, quality, scheduling, and cost objectives.

The ideal candidate will have experience with AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor, Autodesk Map 3D, substation physical design, electrical equipment layouts, material specifications, and construction drawing packages. This role will require coordination with engineers, vendors, construction teams, field services, project management, and maintenance groups.

Key Responsibilities

  • Create and modify scaled 2D drawings and 3D models for electrical substation projects.
  • Design physical aspects of electrical substations, including:
    • Foundation layouts
    • Grounding layouts
    • Conduit layouts
    • Switchgear assembly layouts
    • Substation layouts
    • Switch house layouts
    • Electrical bus design
  • Produce engineering drawings using AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor, Autodesk 3D, or Autodesk Map 3D.
  • Prepare design specifications and material requirements for substation projects.
  • Specify and order materials for substation design packages, including stock, non-stock, and shop-fabricated materials.
  • Prepare and transmit drawing packages and supporting specifications.
  • Coordinate with engineers and other departments involved in electrical substation design.
  • Work with manufacturers, vendors, and internal committee members to resolve equipment and material issues.
  • Support substation construction, field services, project management, and maintenance teams.
  • Participate in site visits, pre-construction meetings, construction support, and post-construction reviews.
  • Support design criteria, standardization efforts, safety practices, quality requirements, schedules, and project costs.

Required Qualifications

  • One of the following education/experience combinations:
    • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology; or
    • Associate degree with at least 5 years of related industry experience; or
    • High school diploma with at least 8 years of significant related industry experience
  • Ability to create and manipulate 2D drawings and 3D models for electrical substations.
  • Proficiency using Microsoft Office products.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Strong problem-solving, organizational, and time-management skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects with competing priorities and deadlines.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
  • Ability to build relationships with engineers, field teams, vendors, and internal stakeholders.
  • Must be willing to travel approximately 25%.
  • Ability to work successfully in a remote or virtual environment with reliable internet access.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Strong understanding of electrical substation equipment.
  • Experience in Transmission and/or Distribution Substation Operations for an electric utility company.
  • Good understanding of utility electric grid operations.
  • Knowledge of basic electrical power system theory.
  • Strong understanding of National Electrical Safety Code, National Electrical Code, and OSHA safe operating practices.
  • Ability to create substation physical drawings from single-line or three-line diagrams.
  • Experience using 3D modeling software such as SDS Inventor, Autodesk Inventor, or Autodesk 3D / P4A.
  • AutoCAD training or experience.
  • Experience with document management and estimating systems.
  • Experience using Primavera P6 or progress reporting software.