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Electrical Substation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

1 point system

Electrical Substation Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$91K - $116K/yr

Prepares and develops substation design packages, including, but not limited to, physical arrangement above and below grade, protective relaying and control, electrical studies such as grounding and ...

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Electrical Substation information

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$57K

$100.3K

$159K

How much do electrical substation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for electrical substation in the United States is $100,250.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a substation electrician do?

A substation electrician installs, maintains, and repairs electrical equipment in substations, ensuring the reliable transmission of electricity. They work with high-voltage systems, use specialized tools, and often require safety certifications and knowledge of electrical codes. Their tasks include troubleshooting faults, replacing components, and ensuring equipment operates safely and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Electrical Substation position, and why are they important?

Excelling in an Electrical Substation role requires a strong background in electrical engineering, power systems, and problem-solving, often supported by an electrical engineering degree, apprenticeship, or relevant technical certifications. Familiarity with SCADA systems, relay protection devices, and safety protocols such as OSHA standards is typically essential. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of high-voltage equipment crucial to power reliability.

What is an Electrical Substation job?

An Electrical Substation job involves the maintenance, operation, and installation of equipment used to regulate and distribute electricity in a power grid. Workers in this role ensure substations function efficiently by inspecting transformers, circuit breakers, and other electrical components. Responsibilities may also include troubleshooting electrical faults and performing routine maintenance to prevent system failures. Substation technicians and engineers must follow strict safety protocols due to the high-voltage environment.

How much does substation pay per hour?

Electrical substation technicians typically earn between $20 and $40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled workers with specialized knowledge or certifications like OSHA or electrical licenses may earn higher wages, especially in areas with high demand or hazardous environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in electrical substation roles?

Professionals working in electrical substations often face challenges such as adhering to strict safety procedures when handling high-voltage equipment, responding quickly to power outages or system malfunctions, and keeping up with evolving industry technology and regulations. The role requires working both independently and as part of a team, frequently in outdoor or shift-based environments where conditions may vary. Effective troubleshooting and clear communication with other engineers, utility personnel, and sometimes emergency responders are essential. Overcoming these challenges helps ensure a safe work environment and reliable electricity supply to communities and businesses.

What's the highest paid electrical job?

In the electrical field, roles such as electrical engineers, especially those with specialized skills in power systems or project management, tend to have the highest salaries. Senior electrical engineers and those working in high-demand industries or with advanced certifications can earn significantly higher wages compared to entry-level positions.

Do substation techs make more than Lineman?

Electrical substation technicians and linemen have different roles; linemen typically earn higher wages due to their outdoor, physically demanding work and climbing requirements. Substation techs usually focus on maintaining and troubleshooting electrical equipment within substations, often requiring specialized certifications. Wages vary by region and experience, but linemen generally have higher earning potential.
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What states have the most Electrical Substation jobs? States with the most job openings for Electrical Substation jobs include:
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Electrical Substation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electrical Substation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, and 60% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $100,250 per year, or $48.2 per hour.
Electrical Substation Engineer

Electrical Substation Engineer

1 point system

Cary, NC • On-site

$91K - $116K/yr

Contractor

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Title: Senior Substation Engineer

Location: Cary, NC  27511-Onsite – Relocation accepted

Duration: 12 Months (May convert to full-time in 6 months based on performance)
Job Description:

  • The Staff/Senior Substation Engineer will work with the project team through the design and construction process, adapting engineering plans according to budget constraints, design factors, or client needs.
  • Supports substation projects from the conceptual phase through completion.
  • Prepares and develops substation design packages, including, but not limited to, physical arrangement above and below grade, protective relaying and control, electrical studies such as grounding and lightning analysis, and lighting and security.
  • Develops substation calculations, including, but not limited to, insulation, AC station service, DC systems and battery sizing, voltage drop, cable sizing, and conduit fill.
  • Prepares design sketches, cost estimates, equipment specifications, bill of materials, and other required deliverables.
  • Applies intermediate knowledge of IEEE, NESC, and other industry and utility standards, guides, specifications and procedures.
  • Supports field inspections for substation facilities on public and private utility systems.
  • Researches and compiles project-related data as required by the project managers.
  • Supports client presentations, reports, and visualizations to demonstrate technical results and project status.
  • Identifies, communicates and supports the resolution of issues on projects as needed.
  • Works with the project manager to support the project schedule and meet deadlines.
  • Works closely with the project team to ensure deliverables and services are being provided to the client’s satisfaction and that projects are following internal QA/QC guidelines. 

Must Have:

  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related degree from an ABET accredited program and min 3 years of substation engineering experience
  • Must have experience with physical design or protection and control (P&C) to take on key technical roles.