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Substation Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Line Mechanic

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$50.78/hr

Responsibilities Performs the duties of Electric Service Technician, Utility Operator and Meter ... Operates substation equipment to include: open/close breakers and reclosers, operate load tap ...

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Substation Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$4

$45

$54

How much do substation operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for substation operator in Iowa is $45.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.45 and $48.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Substation Operator vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectSubstation OperatorPower Plant Operator
CertificationsTypically requires a high school diploma and technical training; may need certifications in electrical safetyRequires a high school diploma; technical training or certifications in power plant operations are common
Work EnvironmentWorks in electrical substations, outdoors or in control roomsWorks inside power plants, control rooms, or outdoor facilities
Industry UsageUsed in electrical utility companies managing transmission infrastructureEmployed in power generation facilities producing electricity

While both roles involve electrical systems and safety protocols, Substation Operators focus on managing electrical substations and transmission equipment, whereas Power Plant Operators oversee the generation process within power plants. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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

To thrive as a Substation Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification in electrical technology. Familiarity with SCADA systems, circuit breakers, transformers, and compliance with OSHA safety standards is essential. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of substations, minimizing risks and maintaining uninterrupted power supply.

What are some common challenges a Substation Operator faces during shift work and how can they be managed?

Substation Operators often work in rotating shifts, including nights and weekends, which can disrupt sleep patterns and personal routines. Managing these challenges involves developing strong time-management skills, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and practicing effective communication with team members to ensure seamless handovers. Additionally, operators must stay vigilant during extended shifts to monitor equipment and respond to emergencies promptly. Many employers offer training and support resources to help staff adapt to shift work and maintain safety standards.

How much does substation pay per hour?

Substation operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. The role often requires technical skills, safety training, and sometimes certifications, with pay rates varying accordingly.

What skills do you need to work in a substation?

Substation operators need strong technical skills in electrical systems, including knowledge of circuit diagrams, control systems, and safety procedures. They should have good problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and the ability to operate and monitor equipment using control panels and automation tools. Certifications such as a high school diploma or technical training in electrical technology are often required, along with safety training and sometimes a valid driver's license for site access.

What is a substation operator?

A substation operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling electrical substations to ensure the safe and reliable distribution of electricity. They operate control systems, perform inspections, and respond to equipment issues, often working in shifts and requiring technical knowledge of electrical systems and safety procedures.

Do you need a CDL to be a substation technician?

A substation technician typically does not need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) as their primary responsibilities involve electrical system maintenance and operation. However, some positions may require a CDL if driving company vehicles or equipment is part of the job. Certification in electrical safety and technical training are more relevant requirements for this role.

What are substation operators?

Substation operators are skilled professionals responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining electrical substations, which are key points in the power distribution network. They ensure the safe and efficient operation of equipment that regulates voltage and directs electricity flow from power plants to homes and businesses. Their duties include inspecting equipment, monitoring systems for faults, responding to emergencies, and coordinating with other utility workers to maintain uninterrupted power supply. Substation operators play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability and safety of the electrical grid.

What Does a Substation Operator Do?

As a substation operator, it is your job to run and manage an electrical substation so that customers can safely use electricity. Your job duties are to inspect, maintain, and monitor all equipment, including power converters, circuit breakers, and voltage transformers. This career requires at least some work experience in an electrical substation. Most employers offer on-the-job training. Another option is to earn an associate degree in a related field, such as power plant technology, from a community or technical college. Additional qualifications are strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

What are popular job titles related to Substation Operator jobs in Iowa? For Substation Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Substation Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Substation Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Substation Operator jobs in IA? For Substation Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Substation Operator job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,389 per year, or $45.4 per hour.
Substation Electrician Journeyman - May accept Apprentice

Substation Electrician Journeyman - May accept Apprentice

Berkshire Hathaway Energy

Adel, IA

Full-time

Posted 14 hours ago


Berkshire Hathaway Energy rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Under general supervision performs construction, maintenance and operation of substation equipment, transmission and distribution circuits. Provides assistance to customers requesting help in the installation, maintenance, and operation of electrical equipment and substations. Works on and around energized circuits.

Performs duties of Utility Operator. MidAmerican Energy Company, a Midwest utility, provides regulated electric and natural gas service to more than 1.6 million customers in Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota. The company owns and operates a portfolio of power-generating assets, approximately 61% of which is wind generation.MidAmerican Energy Company is proud to be an equal opportunity employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or religious creed, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status (except as required by law), gender (including gender identity and expression), sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, familial or parental status, marital status or any other category protected by applicable local, state or U.S. federal law. Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without an accommodation. CDL required at time of or within six months of hire

 Highway alcohol and drug testing required Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without an accommodation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.Performs all work in a safe manner. Complies with all applicable safety rules, regulations and procedures

Performs all work that they are qualified and trained to do in a manner to protect themselves, their fellow employees and the public from injury. - Reads and interprets drawings, wiring diagrams, specifications, manufacturer's instructions and work orders pertaining to substation, transmission and distribution circuits construction and maintenance. Makes field revisions and notes on drawings as needed.

- Installs, operates, and maintains substation structures and equipmentsuch as transformers, switchgear, batteries, chargers, network protectors, mobile substations, reactors, capacitors, circuit breakers, and apparatus vital to the continuity of electrical service. May perform like work on customer and generating facilities. Performs work on energized circuits using protective equipment and hot line tools.

- Lays out and installs vault, manhole, duct runs, conduit, conduit fittings, wiring devices, control wire, electrical cable, cable terminations, and fiber optics and associated accessories. - Splices and terminates lead covered cable (where applicable), armored, rubber jacketed; paper, varnished, cambric, rubber and rubber like insulated cables either for power transmission/distribution; control or communication. - Inspects substation, underground, and aerial circuits and equipment.

- Installs, tests, and maintains various types of substation related metering and relaying systems, which include electro-mechanical types and solid-stateelectronic types where applicable. - Uses various forms of electrical testing equipment and instruments in installing, maintaining, and servicing electric substation equipment. - Installs and assist in the installation, testing and maintenance of distribution supervisory control equipment (RTU's), telemetering systems, protective relaying, and load control equipment which utilizes solid state devices, electromechanical relays, power line carrier equipment, voice frequency carrier equipment, and microwave equipment where applicable.

- Performs switching operations in substations and underground networks as applicable, as directed by supervisory personnel, or systems control center. - Performs necessary duties not electrical in character in connection with construction, maintenance and operation of all substations. Those qualified may perform acetylene welding, acetylene cutting and electrical welding operations.

- Performs necessary maintenance and or housekeeping onor around construction sites, substations, and vaults. - Operates vehicles and equipment necessary to perform the job. Inspects vehicles and equipment for proper operating conditions.

- Locates underground facilities. - Leads, trains and instructs employees in their work. - As appropriate, may perform radio interference troubleshooting.

- As appropriate, may overhaul and repair distribution equipment in shop. - Performs infrared testing surveys.


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