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Substation Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

FastTek

Electrical Construction Manager

Gaylord, MI · On-site

... system operating constraints. * This role provides on-site leadership, coordinates crews and ... Key Responsibilities: * Manage all phases of field construction for utility substation ...

DTE Energy

Operating Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$44.90/hr

The operator performs routine monitoring, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and ... Maintain and monitor substation equipment located in both the chilled water plant and pump house.

DTE Energy

Operating Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$44.90/hr

The operator performs routine monitoring, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and ... Maintain and monitor substation equipment located in both the chilled water plant and pump house.

DTE Energy

Operating Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$44.90/hr

The operator performs routine monitoring, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and ... Maintain and monitor substation equipment located in both the chilled water plant and pump house.

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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 Aug 6, 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 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 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.

More about Substation Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Substation Operator jobs in Michigan? For Substation Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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:
Substation Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substation Operator job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,589 per year, or $42.1 per hour.

Skid Steer Operator (Travel Required)

Phillips, Inc.

Lansing, MI

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago

Phillips 66 rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 86 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

**Travel Required**

Summary: 

This position is responsible for operating several types of construction equipment such as front end loaders, excavators, skid steers, and fork lifts to supply materials to transmission line and substation structures.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

Learn and follow safety regulations
Take actions to avoid potential hazards or obstructions, such as utility lines, other equipment, other workers, or falling objects
Locate underground services, such as pipes or wires, prior to beginning work
Monitor operations to ensure that health and safety standards are met
Adjust hand wheels and depress pedals to control attachments, such as blades, buckets, scrapers, or swing booms
Start engines; move throttles, switches, or levers; or depress pedals to operate machines, such as bulldozers, trench excavators, road graders, or backhoes
Coordinate machine actions with other activities, position or move loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members
Load and move dirt, rocks, equipment, or other materials using trucks, crawler tractors, power cranes, shovels, graders, or related equipment
Check fuel supplies at sites to ensure adequate availability
Drive and maneuver equipment with blades in successive passes over working areas to remove topsoil, vegetation, or rocks or to distribute and level earth or terrain

Requirements:

Follow safety regulations
Follow instructions and meet set standards
Judge distances and slopes accurately
Make decisions based on verifiable standards
Must be able to stoop, bend, and crouch and use hands, arms, and legs fully
Must have good vision and hearing (either naturally or with correction)
Frequently lift up to 80 pounds, and the ability to carry objects weighing 50 pounds or less  
Work dusty or dirty surroundings
Pass construction equipment operator qualification testing/observation

Education and Experience: 

High School Diploma preferred
Two-three years verifiable and relevant experience

Candidates that accept an offer of employment are required to undergo and successfully complete a pre-employment physical examination. This exam is essential to ensure that all potential employees meet the necessary health and fitness standards for the role. The examination includes a series of tests and evaluations conducted by a certified medical professional to assess overall physical health, identify any potential medical conditions that could interfere with job performance, and verify that the candidate is capable of safely performing the essential duties of the position.

Completion and clearance of this physical are mandatory steps in the hiring process.

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