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Substation Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Define and maintain operating and maintenance budget based on established metric, as well as ... Respond to substation outages in assigned area or in support of other areas. Participate in On-Call ...

Define and maintain operating and maintenance budget based on established metric, as well as ... Respond to substation outages in assigned area or in support of other areas. Participate in On-Call ...

Define and maintain operating and maintenance budget based on established metric, as well as ... Respond to substation outages in assigned area or in support of other areas. Participate in On-Call ...

Summary: Electrical background with direct experience in transmission and/or substation ... Support switching procedures and coordination with system operators. Work directly with utility ...

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Substation Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$4

$42

$50

How much do substation operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for substation operator in Michigan is $42.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.38 and $44.71 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 jobs will boom in 2026?

Substation operators are expected to see steady demand due to ongoing infrastructure upgrades and the transition to renewable energy sources. Skills in electrical systems, safety protocols, and certifications like OSHA are valuable, and the job often requires working in outdoor environments with shift schedules. Overall, utility and energy sector jobs related to power distribution are projected to grow in the coming years.

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 jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Substation operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, extensive experience, or ownership of a business. Most substation operators earn a median salary well below this threshold, generally between $60,000 and $80,000 per year.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Substation operators typically do not earn $10,000 a month without specialized training and experience; their salaries usually range lower. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include roles like commercial pilots, real estate brokers, or sales managers, which require skills, certifications, or licenses rather than formal degrees. These positions often involve significant responsibility, experience, or sales performance to achieve such income levels.

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 training or certifications. Their role is critical for maintaining power system stability and safety.

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 job categories do people searching Substation Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Substation Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Substation Operator jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Substation Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Substation Operator jobs in MI? For Substation Operator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Substation Operator job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,589 per year, or $42.1 per hour.
Staff Substation Structural Engineer- Data Center Infrastructure

Staff Substation Structural Engineer- Data Center Infrastructure

Black & Veatch

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Black & Veatch rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

61st of 352 rated engineering


Job description

Together, we own our company, our future, and our shared success.

As an employee-owned company, our people are Black & Veatch. We put them at the center of everything we do and empower them to grow, explore new possibilities and use their diverse talents and perspectives to solve humanity's biggest challenges in an ever-evolving world. With over 100 years of innovation in sustainable infrastructure and our expertise in engineering, procurement, consulting and construction, together we are building a world of difference.  

Company : Black & Veatch Corporation  

Req Id : 111066 

Opportunity Type : Staff 

Relocation eligible : Yes 

Full time/Part time : Full-Time  

Project Only Hire : No 

Visa Sponsorship Available: No 

Why Black and Veatch

Black & Veatch allows you to lend your talent and perspective to humanity's biggest challenges in a flexible environment where you are empowered to grow and explore new possibilities. We offer competitive compensation; 401K match and benefits that start day one. 

At Black & Veatch, you own your career with purpose and meaning. You are empowered to grow and explore new possibilities at every step of your career journey. Bring your big ideas knowing you are safe to be who you are and speak up with concerns or questions and put your diverse talents and perspectives to use.  #LI-DG1 

The Opportunity

As a Staff Structural - Data Center Substation Engineer, you will have the opportunity to: 

  • Lead structural design engineering and analysis on substation scopes, specifically for data center clients on EPC projects. 
  • Collect and assimilate data for engineering work. Perform research and prepare calculations in accordance with Black & Veatch and industry standards.  
  • Develop recommendations for equipment and materials. Understand and work successfully within budget, project schedule, and quality requirements.  
  • May assist with providing guidance to engineering team members. Maintain positive client relations understanding client interests and drivers through effective communication with the project team. May assist with business development activities. 
  • Function as a technical specialist and/or in a lead role. With minimal supervision, apply advanced engineering techniques and analyses for problems and methods. Expand knowledge and skill set in area of discipline. May start to expand knowledge in other disciplines and/or functional areas. 
The Team

Black & Veatch isRanked #4 Overall in Powerby Engineering News-Record (2025). Our Technology, Commercial & Industrial Team has specialized capabilities focused on the latest needs for clients in a fast-growth technology-led arena of advanced manufacturing, and generative AI computing including gigafactories, bio/ag tech, data centers anddistributed infrastructure. By joining our market sector, you will have the opportunity to be involved in cutting-edge technology and work with a team that moves quickly with decisions and expectations.

Black & Veatch provides complete engineering, procurement, and construction new asset and operating asset services in the following areas: 

  • Substations 
  • Overhead Transmission Lines 
  • Underground Transmission Lines 
  • Renewables Integration 
Key Responsibilities
  • Continues developing knowledge and may provide guidance and direction on design guides, standards, systems, applicable engineering codes and B&V policies. Provides technical guidance to others regarding projects and disciplines.
  • Independently applies knowledge and complies with B&V quality program relative to assigned tasks.  May be responsible for ensuring compliance with B&V quality program.  Provides related guidance and direction to others. Supports continuous improvement and change management efforts.
  • Prepares a variety of complex engineering deliverables for larger or multiple projects.  Performs complex research and develops recommendations for equipment and/or materials selection. May oversee collection, assimilation, and management of data for engineering work.  Prepares complex engineering calculations following standard methods and principles.  Manages assigned budget, schedule, and quality requirements. Independently applies advanced engineering techniques and analysis problems and methods. Actively delegates appropriate tasks to lower level team members to develop depth of project execution staff. Reviews lower level engineering work or assignments. Is responsible for one or more of the following:  leading production teams; coordinating multiple discipline activity; and serving as the responsible charge for a project.
  • Actively coordinates with all other internal/external team members on moderately complex projects.
  • Responsible for assisting with identification of key client interests and drivers on low to moderately complex projects. Communicates client interests and drivers to project team members and develops approaches to accommodate these concerns in the performance of the work on low to moderately complex projects. Provides support to business development or pursuit activities and may offer other services to clients.
  • Recognized as a technical specialist and has knowledge and skill set to provide consultation and guidance to project teams in a particular practice area. May design a complete project of moderately complex scope or support multiple projects on the complex technical challenges. Actively fosters knowledge management and provides mentoring. May develop and apply advanced engineering concepts and approaches to unique engineering problems
  • "Typically assists with performance management process, mentoring, recognition, and any corrective actions required. May participate in career planning, and learning and development.  Actively mentors lower level professionals and identifies successors to train in the specifics of their role.

May assist with resource management strategy. May have responsibility of engineering resources for small groups of a single discipline. May be accountable for some administrative responsibilities that include but aren't limited to:

  • Ensuring policies, procedures and processes are effectively implemented and communicated for work group.
  • Ensuring adherence to corporate and division programs.
  • Approving timesheets and expense reports.
Management Responsibilities
Individual Contributor
Preferred Qualifications
  • Active PE License 
  • Written Communications, Drive For Results, Priority Setting, Planning, Delegation, Directing Others, Conflict Management, Informing, Listening, Dealing with Ambiguity, And Building Effective Teams 
  • Advanced knowledge of engineering design principles and applicable design guides and standards related to assigned engineering discipline 
  • Previous client interaction experience with solid relationship-building abilities in pursuit of business opportunities. 
  • Proven strong written and verbal communications skills. 
  • Ability to think quick at the job site and in front of customer personnel. 
  • Good listening skills, customer focused, priority setting, delegation, teamwork and team building skills. 
  • Experience using 3D structural analysis and design software (i.e. RISA-3D, STAAD, etc.) for steel and concrete design 
  • The following experience would be most preferred (but not required) based on the work anticipated from the client: 
  • Experience with the design of utility-scale electrical substation and transmission systems. 
  • Structural design of electrical substation structures and foundations. 
  • Previous EPC project experience or experience doing structural design in a fast-paced environment 
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires a bachelor's degree in engineering from either a recognized accredited program in their home country or the country in which the professional is practicing or equivalent experience in engineering work.
  • Minimum of 5 years related work experience.
  • Holds an active engineering registration or licensure to support engineer of record (EOR) requirements for BV projects in applicable countries, and supports where necessary.
Certifications

Most positions - depending on the nature of work performed as defined by the division - will typically require incumbents to have professional registration or licensure in their designated home office country, or be in active pursuit* of such registration.

Work Environment/Physical Demands

Black & Veatch prides itself on the support of our employees and providing flexibility to make the things that are most important to you, a priority.  Hybrid or flexible work options may be offered after the first 90 days of employment based upon manager discretion, job performance and work assignments. Additionally this opportunity has the possibility of being located in any of our offices located across the U.S; click the link to see a full list of  U.S. Office Locations (select United States).  Some positions may be relocation eligible. Speak to your recruiter if you have interest in relocation.

Competencies
Salary Plan
REG: Registered Engineering
Job Grade
016

Black & Veatch endeavors to make www.bv.com/careers accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process because of a disability, please contact the Employee Relations Department at +1-913-359-1622 or via our accommodations request form. This contact information is for disability accommodation requests only; you may not use this contact information to inquire about the status of applications. General inquiries about the status of applications will not be returned.

Black & Veatch is committed to being an employer of choice by creating a valuable work experience that keeps our people engaged, productive, safe and healthy.

Our comprehensive benefits portfolio is a key component of this commitment and offers an array of health care benefits including but not limited to medical, dental and vision insurances along with disability and a robust wellness program.

To support a healthy work-life balance, we offer flexible work schedules, paid vacation and holiday time, sick time, and dependent sick time.

A variety of additional benefits are available to our professionals, including a company-matched 401k plan, adoption reimbursement, tuition reimbursement, vendor discounts, an employment referral program, AD&D insurance, pre-taxed accounts, voluntary legal plan and the B&V Credit Union. Professionals may also be eligible for a performance-based bonus program.

We are proud to be a 100 percent ESOP-owned company. As employee-owners, our professionals are empowered to drive not only their personal growth, but the company's long-term achievements - and they share in the financial rewards of the success through stock ownership.

By valuing diverse voices and perspectives, we cultivate an authentically inclusive environment for professionals and are able to provide innovative and effective solutions for clients.

BVH, Inc., its subsidiaries and its affiliated companies, complies with all Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws and regulations. Black & Veatch does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender Identity and expression, disability, veteran status, pregnancy status or other status protected by law.

For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. 

Notice to External Search Firms: Black & Veatch does not accept unsolicited resumes and will not be obligated to pay a placement fee for unsolicited resumes. Black & Veatch Talent Acquisition engages with search firms directly for hiring needs.


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About Black & Veatch

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Company: Black & Veatch Family of Companies Together, we own our company, our future, and our shared success. As an employee-owned company, our people are Black & Veatch. We put them at the center of everything we do and empower them to grow, explore new possibilities and use their diverse talents and perspectives to solve humanity's biggest challenges in an ever-evolving world. With over 100 years of innovation in sustainable infrastructure and our expertise in engineering, procurement, consulting and construction, together we are building a world of difference.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Overland Park, KS, US

Year founded

1915