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Substation Inspector Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

QTS Realty Trust, Inc.

Substation Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$97K - $124K/yr

Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of substation equipment to ensure optimal performance and compliance with safety standards. * Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to ...

SNC-Lavalin

Substation Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site +1

$72K - $110K/yr

The Substation Engineer is responsible for supporting or leading substation engineering project ... site inspections during the construction phase of projects. * Maintain complete project ...

GFT.

Sr. Substation Engineer

Roanoke, VA

$107K - $165K/yr

As a substation engineer, you will lead or support utility and power substation projects and ... inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our ...

GFT.

Substation Engineer - Physical

Roanoke, VA

$107K - $165K/yr

GFT is seeking experienced Substation Physical Engineers (Electrical Engineers) Physical to join ... inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our ...

GFT.

Substation Engineer - Physical

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$107K - $165K/yr

GFT is seeking experienced Substation Physical Engineers (Electrical Engineers) Physical to join ... inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our ...

GFT.

Substation Engineer - Physical

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$107K - $165K/yr

GFT is seeking experienced Substation Physical Engineers (Electrical Engineers) Physical to join ... inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our ...

GFT.

Physical Designer (Substation)

Roanoke, VA · On-site +1

$77K - $100K/yr

Inspect completed installations and observe operations, to ensure conformance to design and ... Knowledge of substation phase spacing and electrical clearance requirements for live conductors ...

GFT.

Senior Structural Engineer - Substation

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

GFT is seeking an experienced Senior Structural Engineer - Substation to join our expanding Power ... inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our ...

WSP

Senior Lead Substation Project Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

Perform professional electrical engineering work and conduct more complex/comprehensive investigations and inspections of proposed and existing site conditions, resources, facilities, substation ...

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All JobsSubstation Inspector JobsSubstation Inspector Jobs in Virginia

Substation Inspector information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$32

$63

How much do substation inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for substation inspector in Virginia is $32.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.53 and $47.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Substation Inspector position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Substation Inspector, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, safety protocols, and utility regulations, typically supported by relevant technical certifications or an associate degree in electrical engineering technology. Familiarity with inspection tools, safety equipment, and systems like SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) is often required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving abilities distinguish excellent inspectors in this field. These skills are crucial for ensuring substations operate safely and efficiently, while preventing costly outages or non-compliance issues.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Substation Inspector?

As a Substation Inspector, your day usually involves performing thorough inspections of electrical substations, reviewing equipment for signs of wear or potential safety issues, and verifying compliance with industry standards. You may also be responsible for preparing detailed inspection reports, coordinating with maintenance teams, and scheduling follow-up checks as needed. Interacting with engineers, utility workers, and safety personnel is common, making teamwork and clear communication important to the role. This variety ensures that the workday remains dynamic and provides opportunities to build expertise in both technical and collaborative aspects of substation operations.

How much do building inspectors make?

Building inspectors, including substation inspectors, in North Carolina typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $65,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of inspections performed.

How much does a substation inspector make?

A substation inspector typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They inspect electrical substations, ensuring safety and compliance, often working with specialized tools and following industry standards.

How to become a substation inspector?

To become a substation inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an associate degree in electrical technology or a related field. Relevant experience in electrical systems, knowledge of safety standards, and certifications such as OSHA or NFPA are often required. On-the-job training is common, and strong attention to detail and understanding of electrical equipment are essential for the role.

What is a Substation Inspector job?

A Substation Inspector is responsible for inspecting, testing, and ensuring the proper maintenance of electrical substations. They check for equipment faults, safety compliance, and adherence to regulatory standards. Their duties may include reviewing transformers, circuit breakers, and protective relays to prevent power failures. They also document inspection results and coordinate repairs with maintenance teams. This role is essential for maintaining a reliable and safe electrical grid.

What kind of inspectors make the most money?

In the utility and electrical industries, substation inspectors with specialized skills, certifications, and extensive experience tend to earn higher salaries. Inspectors who oversee complex systems, hold certifications like NETA or NICET, and work in high-demand regions generally make more money. Advanced knowledge of electrical codes and safety standards also contribute to higher earnings for substation inspectors.
What are the most commonly searched types of Substation Inspector jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Substation Inspector jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Substation Inspector jobs in Virginia? For Substation Inspector jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Substation Inspector jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Substation Inspector jobs in Virginia are:
Substation Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substation Inspector job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,506 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

Substation Engineer

QTS Realty Trust, Inc.

Richmond, VA • On-site

$97K - $124K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

The Substation Engineer will support the overall design and execution of QTS utility infrastructure. This role will support the delivery of utility capacity at each campus for data center substation and utility build projects. This role will interface and collaborate with many critical stakeholders, including but not limited to: energy leaders responsible for utility contracts and negotiations; utility engagement developing relationships with utilities; pre-development leads evaluating new properties; operations leaders managing load growth projections; and development team project leaders planning and building new data centers and substations.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES - Other duties may be assigned.
  • Design and develop electrical substation layouts, schematics, and wiring diagrams, focusing on standardization for scale.
  • Perform load flow, short circuit, and coordination studies for substation projects or review the ones provided under EPC contracts.
  • Oversee the construction, installation, and commissioning of substation equipment and systems.
  • Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of substation equipment to ensure optimal performance and compliance with safety standards.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to substation operations.
  • Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and contractors to meet project timelines and budgets.
  • Prepare technical reports, specifications, and documentation for substation projects.
  • Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and regulatory requirements.
  • Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
  • Provide technical support and training to junior engineers and field personnel.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field.
  • Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and/or Engineer in Training (EIT) registration.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Proficient in electrical design software (e.g., AutoCAD, ETAP, SKM).
  • Strong knowledge of electric substation equipment, including transformers, circuit breakers, switchgear, and protective relays. This should include 15kV through 500kV.
  • Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., IEEE, NESC, ANSI, NEC).
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Willingness to travel up to 25% to project sites as needed.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
  • 10 Years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Knowledge of electric transmission systems and design

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing situations at a high-growth company.
  • Ability to prioritize, multitask, and deliver high-quality work in tight timeframes.

TOTAL REWARDS
This role is also eligible for a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; flexible spending and HSA accounts; paid holidays; paid time off; paid volunteer days; employee assistance program; tuition assistance; parental leave; military leave assistance; QTS scholarship for dependents; wellness program, and other company benefits. This role is bonus-eligible and may qualify for equity.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field.
  • Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and/or Engineer in Training (EIT) registration.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Proficient in electrical design software (e.g., AutoCAD, ETAP, SKM).
  • Strong knowledge of electric substation equipment, including transformers, circuit breakers, switchgear, and protective relays. This should include 15kV through 500kV.
  • Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., IEEE, NESC, ANSI, NEC).
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Willingness to travel up to 25% to project sites as needed.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
  • 10 Years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Knowledge of electric transmission systems and design

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing situations at a high-growth company.
  • Ability to prioritize, multitask, and deliver high-quality work in tight timeframes.

TOTAL REWARDS
This role is also eligible for a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; flexible spending and HSA accounts; paid holidays; paid time off; paid volunteer days; employee assistance program; tuition assistance; parental leave; military leave assistance; QTS scholarship for dependents; wellness program, and other company benefits. This role is bonus-eligible and may qualify for equity.
We conform to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or discrimination claim.
The "Know Your Rights" Poster is included here:
Know Your Rights (English)
Know Your Rights (Spanish)
The pay transparency policy is available here:
Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Poster-Formatted
QTS is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to talentacquisition@qtsdatacenters.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

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