ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Substation Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

6AM City, LLC

Senior Project Manager, PMO

Nevada, IA · On-site

$130 - $180/hr

Integrated transmission and substation rebuilds * Strong collaboration and cross-functional team ... service providers, pipeline operators, and industrial companies. We are a forward-thinking ...

New

PJM Interconnection, LLC

(Sr) Engineer I (II)

Audubon, IA · On-site

$85 - $120/hr

At least 0-5 years of experience Field experience with major substation and transmission line ... As the nation's largest grid operator, the work we do every day requires every one of us. If you're ...

Solidus Resources, LLC

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$140 - $210/hr

The conventional heap leach pad is segregated into these two operating areas where it will be ... Act as the electrical engineering lead for site electrical infrastructure from substation to end ...

New

NEW YORK POWER AUTHORITY

Superintendent I

Massena, IA · On-site

... operating budgets and proposals for capital expenditure and investments in infrastructure ... This position will be located at the Massena Substation 486 N Racquette River Rd, Massena NY 13662.

Berkshire Hathaway Energy

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSubstation Operator JobsSubstation Operator Jobs in Iowa

Substation Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$4

$45

$54

How much do substation operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 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 a substation operator?

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 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.

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.

More about Substation Operator jobs

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:

Substation Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substation Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,389 per year, or $45.4 per hour.

Operator-EMJ Tech

Utility Lines Construction Services, LLC

Marshalltown, IA • On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Utility Lines Construction Services rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description
Operator/EMJ Journeyperson
This position will be responsible for switching, maintenance, and construction of substation equipment including implementation of all necessary protective measures for preventative and reactive maintenance duties and performing routine substation inspections. Provide an efficient and safe work environment for employees and contractors in strict accordance with all customer and company practices and procedures along with leadership for all Operator/EMJ apprentices.
Are you a real go-getter looking for an amazing opportunity with a nationwide full-service-utility contractor offering competitive wages and incredible benefits? Keep reading because this job might be for you!
Since 1928, Asplundh has been dedicated to safe, efficient, and innovative line clearance services for the utility industry. Reliable, uninterrupted power is an important service provided by the world's electrical utilities and Asplundh has the expertise to help keep the power flowing. Diversification over the years has opened up vegetation management services to other specialized markets such as municipalities, railroads, pipelines, helicopter vegetation services, and departments of transportation.
A family-owned and operated corporation headquartered near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Asplundh has grown to employ over 36,000 service professionals throughout the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Job Type: Full-Time +, Non-Exempt
Pay:Competitive, Hourly
Benefits:
  • Company Sponsored Retirement Plan
  • Health Insurance (Medical/Dental/Vision)
  • Employee Assistance Program
Essential Functions & Responsibilities:
  • Able to read and understand drawings, schematics, operating instructions, and manuals relating to station transmission equipment.
  • Safety and Environmental knowledge.
  • Able to work and retain access to all ITC assets, including but not limited to substations, ROWs, facilities, vehicles, and equipment.
  • Familiar and able to use Microsoft.
  • Work within all applicable safety rules.
  • Work both independently and in group settings.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Experience as a substation operator, journeyperson substation electrician is required. (not required for apprentices)
  • Be available during off-duty hours.
  • Completed Red Tag Certification or ability to obtain.
  • Willingness to work extended hours and travel as required.
  • Must be able to:
    • work in energized substations and power plants containing voltages up to and including 345,000 volts.
    • work with hands above head for extended periods.
Education & Experience
  • Minimum of a recognized Certificate of Accreditation from an approved College or University, or equivalent job experience. College transcripts will be required to ensure minimum courses have been completed.
Pre-Screen
  • Upon offer, employees may be required to subject and pass a pre-employment drug screen, background, and/or MVR check.
License & Certifications:
  • Valid commercial driver's license (CDL) class "A" required within 6 months of employment.
Physical Requirements:
  • RARE (up to 10%): climbing poles, climbing stairs.
  • OCCASIONAL (up to 33%): sitting, stooping, body twisting, crawling, climbing on/off truck, lifting over 10 lbs. to 50 lbs., climbing ladders, lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • FREQUENT (up to 66 %): standing, walking, kneeling, squatting, gripping, reading, reaching, range of motion, depth perception, color vision, lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, balancing, lifting up to 10 lbs.
  • CONTINUOUS (up to 100%): sense of touch, manual dexterity, speaking clearly, seeing distant, seeing, hearing-speech range.
Safety
Due to the inherently dangerous nature of the industry and requirements to work with or around hazardous equipment, employees must have sufficient eyesight to judge distance/coordination of equipment and tools, be able to maintain attention and concentration for extended periods, be able to withstand exposure to all kinds of weather while completing work assignments, be able to wear personal protective equipment as necessary, be able to enter and exit a vehicle numerous times a day, have the endurance necessary to traverse various terrain, be capable of performing job duties throughout a standard 8- or 10-hour day, be able to communicate with others, read, write, and comprehend written/verbal job instructions and information, and communicate and handle conflict professionally.
  • Works in all temperatures and will be exposed to nature i.e., irritating plants and biting or stinging insects.
  • Works near energized parts or equipment.
  • Works in traffic.
  • Works around excessive noise from machines, jackhammers, gas drills, and other equipment with proper hearing protection.
  • Exposed to hazards of working near power equipment, traffic, high voltage wires, and falling limbs.
About Us:
As a full-service utility contractor, Asplundh performs tree pruning and removals, right-of-way clearing and maintenance, vegetation management with herbicides and emergency storm work and logistical support. Asplundh is the parent company of Asplundh Infrastructure Group whose subsidiaries provide overhead and underground line construction, planning and design, meter reading and AMR/AMI installation, electrical testing, and street lighting/traffic signal services. Asplundh also operates Rotor Blade Airborne Utilities Management, overhead electric distribution, and transmission lines using MD 500 helicopters.
Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees.
An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Benefits
We offer a competitive range of benefits to support our employees' health, well-being, and financial security. Medical, dental, and vision benefits are available to all eligible employees on the first day of employment. For more information on the benefits available for this role, please contact the recruiter or hiring manager.
Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees.
An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Please note:
  • All job offers are subject to pre-employment drug screening and a background check.
  • Unless otherwise noted, we do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Notice to Agencies: We only accept resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or staffing services if a Service Agreement has been signed and we have requested recruitment/staffing services for the specific position. Any unsolicited resumes will become the property of the company, and no fees or compensation will be paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or staffing service.

What Utility Lines Construction Services employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply