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Substation Apprentice Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Perform substation labor on construction sites * May be required to travel to different jobsites on limited notice * Other duties as assigned Education and Work Experience * High school diploma or ...

Leads a team of 1-3 apprentices/laborers in the safe and productive construction activities. * Ensure that the workers under them do their job skillfully and efficiently. * Make certain the assigned ...

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 Sep 12, 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 is a substation apprentice?

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 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substation apprentice?

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 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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substation jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Substation jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Substation Apprentice job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,402 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Substation Electrical Apprentice (Apprenticeship Program)Bluerock Substation, VA

Farmville, VA • On-site

Cinterra
Utilities • 201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Job Description
For over twenty years, Cinterra has provided specialized electrical utility and solar construction services to support some of the nation's leading contractors, private industry and public utilities. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is only rivaled by one of the highest safety ratings in the industry. The services we provide help to bring electric power and renewable energy sources to millions. Come join our team today!
Position Summary:
Cinterra is seeking a Substation Construction Electrical Apprentice to join the Transmission and Distribution Services Team.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
Perform substation construction and maintenance. 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.
Operate aerial lifts, forklifts, skidsteers, backhoes, excavators, boom trucks, and other equipment used in the construction of electrical substations.
Must know and understand state and local laws, DOT, and OSHA standards
Perform services in a safe and timely manner.
Must be able to understand and complete required paperwork and documentation of the services.
Communicates with customers, property owners, the general public, other contractors, utility representatives, and government agencies.
Maintain company equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
Requirements
Job Requirements
  • Clean driving record, Class A Commercial Driver's License preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret prints and plans.
  • Effective communication skills.
  • Experience working in energized substations and be able to distinguish energized live parts.
  • Utility Substation and Transmission Line Switching & Tagging experience a plus.
  • Certified Crane Operator a plus.
  • Must be able to pass a skills assessment at the start of employment.
  • Pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
  • Education and Experience: High School Diploma or GED.
  • 5 or more years of experience as an Apprentice/Journeymen Electrician.
  • Completion of an accredited Substation Apprentice Program, or verifiable work experience as an Apprentice/Journeymen Electrician.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to lift and carry heavy materials, tools, and equipment (up to 50 pounds or more).
  • Must be able to traverse irregular and steep terrain.
  • Endurance to perform physical tasks throughout the workday, including bending, stooping, kneeling, and standing for extended periods.
  • Agility and flexibility to navigate construction sites and access work areas, including climbing ladders and scaffolding.
  • Must be able to position one-self to work in confined spaces such as trenches, pits, manholes, and tunnels.
  • Must be able to wear personal protective gear most of the day.
  • Must be able to work in a variety of weather conditions.
  • Must have manual dexterity, a good sense of balance, and excellent hand-eye coordination.

Cinterra provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual