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Substation Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Line Mechanic

Humboldt, 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 ...

Line Mechanic

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$52.05/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 ...

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 ...

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

... substation issues, sub-transmission and transmission issues, changes in their load profiles ... Coordinates planned equipment outages that impact generation output with generation operators at ...

... substation issues, sub-transmission and transmission issues, changes in their load profiles ... Coordinates planned equipment outages that impact generation output with generation operators at ...

... substation issues, sub-transmission and transmission issues, changes in their load profiles ... Coordinates planned equipment outages that impact generation output with generation operators at ...

Showing results 21-40

Substation Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$4

$45

$54

How much do substation operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 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.

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 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.

Line Mechanic - May accept apprentice

Berkshire Hathaway Energy

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days 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, works alone or with a crew to install and maintain electric distribution and transmission systems. Includes all overhead, underground facilities and other utilities, which includes installing, but not connecting gas pipe.

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.

- Class "A" CDL required - Pipeline/Hwy Alcohol & Drug Testing - CIP certification

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.

- Class "A" CDL required - Pipeline/Hwy Alcohol & Drug Testing - CIP certification -

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 the duties of Electric Service Technician, Utility Operator and Meter Utility Person. 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. Installs, changes, transfers, moves and removes poles, poles line hardware, guys, transformers, lightning arresters, streetlight equipment, electrical cable, gas pipe, cross-arms, energized conductors, insulators, conduit, capacitor bank controls and any and all forms of electrical material and accessories utilized in the construction, maintenance, and operation of electric circuits. Installs, uses and removes protective equipment and devices on energized electric circuits of all voltages. Works with hot line tools on circuits. Performs work on energized circuits of all voltages. Performs steel tower structural work including the erection and removal and repair of steel towers and electrical equipment used in connection therewith. Works with electrical instruments such as voltmeters, ammeters, fault locators, etc. Reads meters. Operates switches and cutouts in transmission and distribution circuits. Patrols transmission and distribution circuits as assigned. Inspects poles and towers, making climbing inspections of conductors and equipment. Drives truck and is responsible for truck, tools, and equipment carried thereon. Must be familiar with and capable of operating all types of equipment associated with the work being performed. Locates underground gas and electric facilities in conjunction with their work. Additionally, performs locates where no Locator/Leak Surveyors exist. Contacts property owners on tree trimming matters. Performs minor tree trimming, cutting brush, removing line detriments to the extent necessary in performance of regular duties. Responsible for completing written reports on fieldwork and proper accounting for materials and time associated with each job. Performs public contacts when necessary. Leads, trains and instructs employees in their work including switching. Installs, removes, changes and turns on or off existing meters of the following classes: Sets voltage recording devices Single and three phase self-contained meters through Class 320 Network meters through Class 320 Changes bill group on demand meters as needed. (Note: This does not include meter types or situations that require programming for installation) Performs duties in Company and customer substations to restore service and perform diagnostics to include: switching, analyzing and communicating relay targets, amp readings, voltage readings, breaker/recloser count or values, voltage regulator information, load tap changer information and similar work to restore service. Operates substation equipment to include: open/close breakers and reclosers, operate load tap changers and voltage regulator controls, install fuses and similar work to restore service as well as other operations consistent with training and ability.


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