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Entry Level Utility Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Hydromax USA

Technician - Crossbore

Portland, OR

$22 - $24/hr

This entry-level field role offers a strong opportunity for career growth within the utility industry. Motivated technicians often move quickly into crew lead roles and beyond. Primary ...

Terex

Shop Service Intern

Tigard, OR · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

On-Site Travel Required: 0% Shop Services Internship Program Overview The Terex Utilities Shop ... High School degree or GED * Entry level experience or recent graduation froma Technical School that ...

Solvenow Inc.

Layout Designer

Portland, OR

... utility routing, clearance issues, and access requirements * Contribute to continuous improvement of layout standards and best practices In addition to the responsibilities of entry-level designers ...

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All JobsUtility JobsEntry Level Utility JobsEntry Level Utility Jobs in Portland, OR

Entry Level Utility information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$20

$34

How much do entry level utility jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level utility in Portland, OR is $20.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level utility workers and how can they be managed?

Entry level utility workers often face challenges such as adapting to physically demanding tasks, working in various weather conditions, and learning to safely operate equipment. Managing these challenges typically involves thorough onboarding, ongoing safety training, and mentorship from more experienced team members. It's important to ask questions, stay proactive about learning, and adhere strictly to safety protocols to ensure both personal and team success.

What are entry level utility workers?

Entry level utility workers are employees who perform basic tasks to support the maintenance and operation of utility services, such as water, electricity, gas, or sanitation. Their responsibilities may include assisting with repairs, inspecting equipment, operating simple machinery, and maintaining work areas. These positions often require minimal prior experience and provide on-the-job training, making them ideal for individuals starting their careers in the utility industry. Entry level utility workers play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and safe delivery of essential services to communities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Utility worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Utility worker, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn on the job. Familiarity with hand tools, safety protocols, and sometimes specific training or certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Dependability, teamwork, and strong communication skills help individuals excel in fast-paced, physically demanding environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and smooth operations in utility or industrial settings.

What is the difference between Entry Level Utility vs Entry Level Electrician?

AspectEntry Level UtilityEntry Level Electrician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; apprenticeship or technical training
Work EnvironmentUtility companies, power plants, water treatment facilitiesConstruction sites, residential, commercial, industrial buildings
Employer & Industry UsageUtility companies, public service providersElectrical contractors, construction firms, industrial plants
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Utility vs Entry Level Electrician

While both roles involve working with electrical systems, Entry Level Utility positions typically focus on supporting utility infrastructure and require less specialized training initially. Entry Level Electricians perform more hands-on electrical installations and repairs, often requiring technical training or apprenticeships. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path based on their skills and interests.

What are the most commonly searched types of Utility jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Utility jobs in Portland, OR are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Utility jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Utility jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Entry Level Utility jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Entry Level Utility job openings:
Entry Level Utility jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Utility job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,511 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Planning Engineer - I/II

Planning Engineer - I/II

TOTH AND ASSOCIATES INC

Portland, OR

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Utility Planning Engineer - I/II

Toth & Associates is hiring an entry-level Utility Planning Engineer - I/II for our Portland office. You'll model electric distribution systems for utility clients across the US - running load flow, contingency, generator interconnection studies, battery charging studies, fault current analysis - and translate the results into recommendations that get built. You'll work alongside Transmission Planning, Transmission Design, and Substation Design engineers to scope real system upgrades for real utilities.

This is a role designed for new or early-career engineers. You'll get structured mentorship from senior PE-licensed engineers. Expect a clear path from Engineer I to II to III as you build experience. A qualified applicant must have good interpersonal skills as the job requires management of projects and team members as well as meeting and working closely with clients.

Responsibilities and Duties: (Include but are not limited to)

  • Demonstrate developmental experience as a professional engineer.
  • Responsible for the design and management of assigned projects.
  • Exhibit a detailed knowledge of industry standard methods, specifications, and materials.
  • Develop design documentation, drawings, and project data for assigned projects; review documentation, drawings, and project data submitted by team members.
  • Coordinate with multiple entities and oversee project completion.
  • Direct drafters in the development of exhibits and construction documents.
  • Organize project management practices to include coordination/communication with team members and clients.
  • Perform detailed calculations to compute and establish manufacturing, construction, and installation standards and specifications.
  • Investigate the extent and nature of client concerns, and prepare remedial measures to be presented to management.
  • Oversee project production efforts to help assure projects are completed satisfactorily, on time, and on budget.
  • Manage the design and monitor construction projects to ensure compliance with the engineering design.
  • Perform or assign field observation and project inspection.
  • Occasional travel/driving is required.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • BS degree in Electrical Engineering from an ABET-accredited engineering program is required.
  • Coursework in power systems, electric machines, or power electronics.
  • Understanding of core power concepts (power factor, per unit, load flow) at a coursework level.
  • Proficiency with Excel and the rest of MS Office.
  • Strong interpersonal and written communication skills.
  • EIT certification, or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.

Valued but not required skills and experience:

  • Exposure to any power systems analysis software (Milsoft, CYME, Synergi, PowerWorld, or Aspen).
  • Proficiency in a programming language (Python, VBA, etc).
  • Internship or co-op experience with a utility, co-op, or consulting firm.

Benefits:

  • Paid Time Off
  • Eight paid holidays
  • Company-paid medical and dental coverage with buy-up options
  • 401(k) w/company matching and profit sharing
  • Discretionary bonuses
  • Paid Bonding Leave
  • Vision
  • Company-paid life insurance and long-term disability insurance
  • Supplemental life insurance available
  • Short-term disability available
  • FSA and HSA options
  • Education assistance

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