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Substation Apprentice Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Solar Journeyman Electrician

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$25.50 - $34.75/hr

... apprentices and working collaboratively with the installation crew. Key Responsibilities: * Oversee the installation and adjustments of substation: * Install, maintain, and repair solar PV systems:

Davis H Elliot Company, Inc.

Substation Groundman

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$1.2K - $1.6K/wk

State and Federally accredited Lineman Apprenticeship program * Paid Vacation * Servant Leadership Training * Uniforms and PPE provided Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the ...

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Substation Apprentice information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$31

$63

How much do substation apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for substation apprentice in Virginia is $31.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $46.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Substation Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of electrical theory, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by vocational training. Familiarity with electrical testing equipment, hand and power tools, and adherence to OSHA safety standards are typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and a willingness to learn make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure safety, efficiency, and reliability when working with high-voltage electrical systems.

What Does a Substation Apprentice Do?

As a substation apprentice, you work at an electrical substation while training under the direct supervision of a journey-level substation technician. Your duties typically involve the installation and maintenance of electrical wiring and substation equipment. During an apprentice program, you also learn other aspects of substation construction, such as installing fencing and testing circuit breakers, switches, and metering equipment. Depending on the details of the apprenticeship, your responsibilities include attending classes during or after regular working hours or responding to emergency calls or outage reports with your training technician.

What are some common challenges faced by Substation Apprentices during their training period?

Substation Apprentices often encounter challenges such as adapting to rigorous safety protocols, understanding complex electrical systems, and working in various weather conditions. The role demands strong attention to detail and the ability to learn quickly from experienced technicians and supervisors. Additionally, apprentices must balance hands-on fieldwork with classroom instruction, which can be demanding but provides a solid foundation for career growth in the electrical utility industry.

What are substation apprentices?

Substation apprentices are entry-level workers who learn to install, maintain, and repair electrical substations under the supervision of experienced technicians or journeymen. They participate in a structured apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction to develop the technical skills and safety knowledge required for the role. Substation apprentices work with high-voltage equipment, perform routine inspections, assist with upgrades, and follow strict safety protocols. Over time, they gain the experience needed to become fully qualified substation technicians or electricians.

What is the difference between Substation Apprentice vs Substation Technician?

AspectSubstation ApprenticeSubstation Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical certifications, experience in electrical systems
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, construction sites, utility facilitiesOperational substations, maintenance sites, repair environments
Employer & Industry UsageUtility companies, electrical contractorsUtility companies, electrical service providers

Substation Apprentices are in training to learn electrical systems and substation operations, often working under supervision. Substation Technicians are experienced workers responsible for maintaining, repairing, and operating substations. The apprenticeship prepares individuals for the technician role, which requires more hands-on experience and certifications.

More about Substation Apprentice jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Substation jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Substation jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Substation Apprentice jobs in Virginia? For Substation Apprentice jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Substation Apprentice jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Substation Apprentice jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Substation Apprentice jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Substation Apprentice job openings:
Substation Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substation Apprentice job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,402 per year, or $31.9 per hour.
Substation Construction Apprentice (Statewide)

Substation Construction Apprentice (Statewide)

Phillips, Inc.

Richmond, VA

Other

Posted 23 days ago

Phillips 66 rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 86 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Summary:

We are seeking Substation Construction Apprentices to join our T&D Services team in Alabama and Georgia. This is an entry level position that will enter the Phillips Inc. Apprenticeship Program.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Perform substation construction and maintenance with minimal to no supervision. This includes trenching, installing conduit, pulling cable, wiring of outdoor electrical equipment, installing ground grids, installing foundations, setting steel structures, installing buswork and conductors, welding aluminum buswork, setting and adjusting air switches, installing circuit breakers, and setting main power transformers.
  • Follow all verbal and written instructions from senior crew members.
  • Operate company vehicle.
  • Assist Electricians by making ready materials and stocking trucks.
  • Learn to operate aerial lifts, forklifts, skidsteers, backhoes, excavators, boom trucks, and other equipment used in the construction of electrical substations.
  • Perform services in a safe and timely manner.
  • Maintain company equipment in a safe and efficient manner.

Requirements:

  • Clean driving record, Class A Commercial Driver's License preferred.
  • Effective communication skills.
  • Ability to perform manual labor i.e., digging, trenching, lifting, etc.
  • Be able to lift/move 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to pass a skills assessment at start of employment.
  • Pass a pre-employment drug screen, physical, and background check.

Education and Experience:

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • 1 year construction experience.
  • Completion of an accredited Substation Apprentice Program, or 2-4 years in the T&D construction industry.

Candidates that accept an offer of employment are required to undergo and successfully complete a pre-employment physical examination. This exam is essential to ensure that all potential employees meet the necessary health and fitness standards for the role. The examination includes a series of tests and evaluations conducted by a certified medical professional to assess overall physical health, identify any potential medical conditions that could interfere with job performance, and verify that the candidate is capable of safely performing the essential duties of the position.

Completion and clearance of this physical are mandatory steps in the hiring process.

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