2

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

Project Engineer (Civil)

Battle Ground, WA · On-site

$23.23 - $34.84/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This entry-level role is designed to actively impact project performance and field operations ... We specialize in site development, transportation, utility, and environmental projects. Our success ...

Water/Wastewater - Project Engineer

Battle Ground, WA · On-site

$23.23 - $34.84/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This entry-level role is designed to actively impact project performance and field operations ... We specialize in site development, transportation, utility, and environmental projects. Our success ...

Project Engineer (Structural)

Battle Ground, WA · On-site

$23.23 - $34.84/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This entry-level role is designed to actively impact project performance and field operations ... We specialize in site development, transportation, utility, and environmental projects. Our success ...

Building on a 100-year legacy of performance and service to utility, commercial, industrial, and ... Responsibilities This is an entry level shop/field, union position who acts as a fuel man, washer ...

Building on a 100-year legacy of performance and service to utility, commercial, industrial, and ... Responsibilities This is an entry level shop/field, union position who acts as a fuel man, washer ...

Building on a 100-year legacy of performance and service to utility, commercial, industrial, and ... Responsibilities This is an entry level shop/field, union position who acts as a fuel man, washer ...

Building on a 100-year legacy of performance and service to utility, commercial, industrial, and ... Responsibilities This is an entry level shop/field, union position who acts as a fuel man, washer ...

Building on a 100-year legacy of performance and service to utility, commercial, industrial, and ... Responsibilities This is an entry level shop/field, union position who acts as a fuel man, washer ...

Building on a 100-year legacy of performance and service to utility, commercial, industrial, and ... Responsibilities This is an entry level shop/field, union position who acts as a fuel man, washer ...

Building on a 100-year legacy of performance and service to utility, commercial, industrial, and ... Responsibilities This is an entry level shop/field, union position who acts as a fuel man, washer ...

Building on a 100-year legacy of performance and service to utility, commercial, industrial, and ... Responsibilities This is an entry level shop/field, union position who acts as a fuel man, washer ...

Early Career P&C Field Services Technician

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$30 - $55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... in utility substations, industrial and bulk electrical power systems. This Opportunity Provides entry-level support for construction, maintenance, environmental sampling, and technical field ...

Early Career P&C Field Services Technician

Vancouver, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... in utility substations, industrial and bulk electrical power systems. This Opportunity Provides entry-level support for construction, maintenance, environmental sampling, and technical field ...

Hot Tapping Services Technician

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... utilities, pipeline, and other industrial sectors. We are committed to safety, innovation, and performance excellence. Position Overview: TEAM is seeking an entry level individual that has a good ...

Showing results 21-38

Entry Level Utility information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$20

$34

How much do entry level utility jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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 is an entry level utility?

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?

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:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Utility job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,511 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Project Engineer (Civil)

TAPANI, Inc.

Battle Ground, WA • On-site

$23.23 - $34.84/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Tapani Inc. rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
The Project Engineer serves as a key support role within project teams, assisting in various aspects of project coordination and execution. This entry-level role is designed to actively impact project performance and field operations, going beyond administrative assistance to contribute to project planning, cost control, and operational excellence. The Project Engineer will work closely with Project Managers, Superintendents, and field teams to ensure successful project execution.
Responsibilities
  • Daily Reporting and Analysis: Ensure consistent and accurate project documentation.
    • Organize and transmit tickets and pertinent information to Project Admins.
    • Review and approve daily reports and timecards.
    • Monitor accurate quantity and time tracking against correct phase codes.
    • Correlate phase quantity tracking to contract item/pay item tracking.
    • Review daily labor and equipment productivity and report findings to the project team.
    • Measure quantities, report the results, and track progress.
  • Cost Control and Forecasting: Assist in managing project costs and trends.
    • Monitor subcontractors and material cost control through site visits, tickets, and reviewing daily reports.
    • Identify cost trends and communicate them to the Project Manager or Superintendent.
    • Track and forecast potential budget impacts based on field observations.
  • Schedule Management: Support and eventually lead schedule tracking.
    • Assist in creating the overall project schedule and the initial 3-week schedule.
    • Maintain and update the 3-week schedules during construction.
    • Attend weekly logistics meetings and raise scheduling concerns to the Superintendent or Project Manager.
  • Project Compliance and Coordination: Ensure adherence to regulatory and internal standards.
    • Track permit-related inspections (e.g., building, plumbing, ROW, special access).
    • Monitor apprenticeship and DBE compliance reporting.
    • Manage submittals and RFIs during construction.
    • Assist with coordination of subcontractor and supplier activities, and place necessary orders (e.g., materials, small tools, trucks, equipment).
    • Maintain project documentation and ensure project records are up-to-date.
  • Operational Excellence and Field Engagement: Drive continuous improvement on site.
    • Identify waste, inefficiencies, and potential bottlenecks.
    • Perform field site visits to foster crew morale and gather improvement insights.
    • Build strong field relationships based on curiosity and respect.
  • Project Start-up and Close-out: Support critical project transitions.
    • Attend bid handoffs and department update meetings.
    • Assist or perform subcontractor and supplier buyouts.
    • Verify scopes, prices, and identify scope gaps between subcontractors.
    • Prepare and finalize quotes and transmit to Project Admin to create work orders and purchase orders.
    • Contribute to creating project schedules and startup checklists.
    • Help with preconstruction meeting preparations and project submittals.
    • Participate in finalizing job cost history, creating project resumes, and recording lessons learned.
  • Regulatory and Safety Compliance: Support erosion control and safety documentation.
    • Assist with erosion control compliance documentation.
    • Complete confined space forms and incident reports as needed.
  • Uphold Tapani's Purpose document: Demonstrate actions and behaviors that align with Tapani's Purpose and Values (Purpose and Values)

Essential Skills
  • Strong analytical and organizational skills
  • Effective written and verbal communication
  • Ability to identify trends and propose practical solutions
  • Comfortable with construction technology platforms
  • Ability to develop positive working relationships with field and office teams

Additional Skills & Qualifications
  • Entry-level position; prior internship or field experience in construction preferred

Job Type & Location
This is a full-time position based out of Battle Ground, WA, with travel to job sites across Oregon and Washington as needed.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $23.23 - $34.84 per hour, depending on experience.
Tapani Inc. offers a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:
  • Monthly $75 phone allowance or company phone
  • Comprehensive Medical Insurance plans with low to $0 monthly premiums
  • Additional voluntary insurance options include: Dental, Vision, and a wide variety of Supplemental insurances.
  • Flexible Paid Time Off and Sick Time
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • 401(k) options with up to 4% employer match
  • See the full list of benefits here

About Tapani Inc.
Tapani Inc. is a family-owned and operated construction company serving the Pacific Northwest since 1983. We specialize in site development, transportation, utility, and environmental projects. Our success is built on teamwork, integrity, and a commitment to safety and quality. Tapani's employees take pride in delivering exceptional work while contributing to strong communities.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Tapani Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Disclaimers
Physical ability to perform assigned tasks, lift, push and pull 20 pounds at a time, and ability to sit, stand and work on a computer for prolonged periods of time.
This job description does not contain a comprehensive list of all job responsibilities of this position. Tapani reserves the right to modify the duties and responsibilities of the position as it deems necessary.

What Tapani Inc. employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom