1

Substation Apprentice Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Journeyman Wireman

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$70.87/hr

This role will support PGE's Substation Construction team with day-to-day assignments involving ... Current Journeyman Wireman card with evidence of completion of a Wireman Apprenticeship. * Possess ...

Field Mechanic

Portland, OR

$26.50 - $36.25/hr

... substation, commercial and industrial, storm restoration, and renewable (solar and wind farms ... or apprenticeship in vehicle and equipment repair and have four years of experience. * Must be ...

... substation, commercial and industrial, storm restoration, and renewable (solar and wind farms ... or apprenticeship in vehicle and equipment repair and have four years of experience. * Must be ...

Field Mechanic

Portland, OR · On-site

$26.50 - $36.25/hr

... substation, commercial and industrial, storm restoration, and renewable (solar and wind farms ... or apprenticeship in vehicle and equipment repair and have four years of experience. * Must be ...

Field Mechanic

Portland, OR · On-site

$26.50 - $36/hr

... substation, commercial and industrial, storm restoration, and renewable (solar and wind farms ... or apprenticeship in vehicle and equipment repair and have four years of experience. * Must be ...

Field Mechanic

Portland, OR · On-site

$26.50 - $36.25/hr

... substation, commercial and industrial, storm restoration, and renewable (solar and wind farms ... or apprenticeship in vehicle and equipment repair and have four years of experience. * Must be ...

Field Mechanic

Portland, OR

$26.50 - $36.25/hr

... substation, commercial and industrial, storm restoration, and renewable (solar and wind farms ... or apprenticeship in vehicle and equipment repair and have four years of experience. * Must be ...

Field Mechanic

Portland, OR · On-site

$66K/yr

... substation, commercial and industrial, storm restoration, and renewable (solar and wind farms ... or apprenticeship in vehicle and equipment repair and have four years of experience. * Must be ...

Field Mechanic

Portland, OR

$26.50 - $36.25/hr

... substation, commercial and industrial, storm restoration, and renewable (solar and wind farms ... apprenticeship in vehicle and equipment repair and have four years of experience . * Must be ...

Field Mechanic

Portland, OR · On-site

$26.50 - $36.25/hr

... substation, commercial and industrial, storm restoration, and renewable (solar and wind farms ... or apprenticeship in vehicle and equipment repair and have four years of experience. * Must be ...

Field Mechanic

Portland, OR · On-site

$26.50 - $36.25/hr

... substation, commercial and industrial, storm restoration, and renewable (solar and wind farms ... apprenticeship in vehicle and equipment repair and have four years of experience . * Must be ...

Substation Apprentice information

See Portland, OR salary details

$9

$32

$65

How much do substation apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for substation apprentice in Portland, OR is $32.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.29 and $48.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Substation Apprentice jobs in Portland, OR? For Substation Apprentice jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Substation Apprentice jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Substation Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Substation Apprentice job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,189 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

$70.87/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Portland General Electric rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

At PGE, our work involves dreaming about, planning for, and realizing a smarter, cleaner, more enduring Oregon neighborhood. Its core to our DNA and we haven't stopped since we started in 1888. We energize lives, strengthen communities and drive advancements in energy that promote social, economic and environmental progress. We're always on the lookout for people passionate about leading and being a part of teams that are advancing innovative clean energy solutions that are also affordable and accessible to all.
At PGE, we have a few positions that we hire for consistently throughout the year and our Journeyman Wireman roles are one of them! We are developing a talent pool for these opportunities. Please put in your resume with your interest and let's start the conversation!
This is not a posting for an active open position. This is a posting to discover interest in our Journeyman Wireman roles at Portland General Electric.
This role will support PGE's Substation Construction team with day-to-day assignments involving demolition, installation, troubleshooting, and commissioning of substation equipment. The role serves our Oregon service territory including the greater Portland area with pockets extending towards Salem, Clatskanie, and Central Oregon.
Want to be part of this tradition of service to customers and community?
You should know that we are selective. We have created an environment where dedicated professionals who do quality work safely, really shine.
In return, our compensation is highly competitive, ranking among the highest in Oregon and the US. It also reflects the value we place on our Wiremen and the critical service they provide. Here an overview of our package:
  • 401k match of 7% with additional 7% profit share

  • Company provided safety gear

  • Paid vacation days and holidays

  • Opportunities to earn overtime pay

  • Excellent health and dental options for all dependents

  • 15% off your electric bill, if you live in PGE service territory, after six months of employment

The Position: Journeyman Wireman
Work Location: This role will report to one of our operations centers, located within the PGE footprint.
Rate of pay: $70.87/hr
Hours:Day Shift, Monday-Friday
PGE supports 24/7/365 continuous operations for our Customers and Public. This role will be called upon at various times to provide after-hours support our obligation of continuous service.
Job Duties, General Requirements, and Skills:
  • Demolish, install, wire, troubleshoot, and commission all types, sizes, and voltages of substation equipment in a safe, professional manner. Assignments may include retrofits, partial or full rebuilds, and greenfield installations across PGE's distribution, transmission, and generation substation facilities.

  • The role requires personnel to be outdoors in the elements, work on the ground and at heights, and lift over 50 pounds. There may be opportunities to work extended hours or weekends.

  • Perform switching and tagging.

  • Knowledge of safety regulations and OSHA requirements.

  • Support mentorship, safety conversations, and training.

  • Integrate with a construction crew and SUBOPS Meter-Relay, SCADA, and communication technicians.

  • Interact and communicate with customers, the general public, and other PGE staff.

  • Perform all other duties as assigned.

  • Those role includes an extendable 6-month probationary period with documented progress reports.

Required Certifications:
  • Current Journeyman Wireman card with evidence of completion of a Wireman Apprenticeship.

  • Possess and maintain a CDL Class A driver's license with air brake and tanker endorsement. Must possess and maintain a valid driving medical card.

Wireman B Program:
PGE offers a Wireman B program for Journeyman Electricians to apply for this position and train the specific Journeyman Wireman work. If this is you, please apply and accurately list your certifications, skills, and Journeyman Electrician card and apprenticeship information.
What are the next steps?
From here, a PGE recruiter review your application for the required qualifications and will schedule a phone screen to understand your interest, experience, and desired work locations.
By applying to this posting, you are submitting your interest for a Journeyman Wireman role with PGE. This is not an open position we are hiring for.
Once we have an open position, we will notify all qualified candidates and will start the official hiring process.
Offers are contingent upon passing a background check (public records search, education, and employment verification), pre-placement medical examination, and drug screen. PGE goes by federal guidelines for drug screens which includes testing for marijuana (THC)
Join us today and power your potential!
PGE is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a workplace where employees feel connected, valued, and empowered to thrive. PGE will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.
PGE does not discriminate on the basis of disability. We recognize individuals have a variety of abilities to offer and we believe there is much to value and celebrate by incorporating different abilities into the work we do. One very important way we live this out is in our application and interview process. We work hard to support individuals who may need an accommodation to fully participate in these processes. If you feel you may need an accommodation, or would like to request one, please notify the recruiter associated with the job posting. You may also make this request by contacting talentacquisition@pgn.com or by calling 503-464-7250. The recruiter will provide information and next steps for the accommodation process.
Starting pay is listed in the job posting above.
PGE believes in rewarding dedicated performance. We provide a total rewards package that is designed to reward your contributions to the company, and, at the same time, support your well-being and professional development, both now and into the future. To find out more, click here.
Join us today and power your potential!
Assisting with storms or other Company emergencies is a part of all positions at Portland General Electric.
PGE is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a workplace where employees feel connected, valued, and empowered to thrive. PGE will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.
PGE does not discriminate on the basis of disability. We recognize individuals have a variety of abilities to offer and we believe there is much to value and celebrate by incorporating different abilities into the work we do. One very important way we live this out is in our application and interview process. We work hard to support individuals who may need an accommodation to fully participate in these processes. If you feel you may need an accommodation, or would like to request one, please notify the recruiter associated with the job posting. You may also make this request by contacting talentacquisition@pgn.com or by calling 503-464-7250. The recruiter will provide information and next steps for the accommodation process.
To be considered for this position, please complete the following employment application by the posting close date. Posting closes at midnight (Pacific Time) on the closing date below. If no date is listed, job is open until filled.

What Portland General Electric employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom