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Substation Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Sonepar

Substation Estimator (Hudson, OH)

Hudson, OH

Switches (disconnects, load break switches, gang operated) * Capacitor banks and reactors * Bus pipe, bus fittings and expansion components * Connectors, clamps, insulators, and hardware * Substation ...

Sonepar

Substation Estimator (Hudson, OH)

Hudson, OH · On-site

Switches (disconnects, load break switches, gang operated) * Capacitor banks and reactors * Bus pipe, bus fittings and expansion components * Connectors, clamps, insulators, and hardware * Substation ...

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All JobsSubstation Operator JobsSubstation Operator Jobs in Ohio

Substation Operator information

See Ohio salary details

$5

$45

$54

How much do substation operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for substation operator in Ohio is $45.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.98 and $48.80 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.

More about Substation Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Substation Operator jobs in Ohio? For Substation Operator jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Substation Operator jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Substation Operator jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Substation Operator jobs in OH? For Substation Operator jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Substation Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substation Operator job openings in Ohio as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,538 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

Substation Construction Manager

SunEnergy1LLC

Jackson, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

The Substation Construction Manager is responsible for overseeing and directing all on-site construction activities for electrical substation projects. This role ensures work is executed safely, in compliance with design and utility standards, and delivered on schedule and within budget. The Construction Manager serves as the senior field leader, coordinating crews, subcontractors, inspectors, and commissioning teams through project completion and energization.

Key ResponsibilitiesConstruction Leadership & Execution
  • Lead day-to-day field construction activities for substation projects (greenfield, brownfield, expansions, upgrades)
  • Supervise site superintendents, foremen, subcontractors, and craft labor
  • Develop and execute construction work plans, sequencing, and manpower plans
  • Coordinate outage schedules and tie-ins with utilities and system operators
Safety Management
  • Champion a zero-incident safety culture across all project sites
  • Enforce site-specific safety plans, JHAs, and company safety policies
  • Ensure compliance with OSHA, NESC, NFPA 70E, and utility safety standards
  • Conduct toolbox talks, safety audits, and incident investigations
Schedule & Productivity
  • Drive adherence to the project schedule and milestone dates
  • Monitor labor productivity, equipment utilization, and material availability
  • Identify and mitigate construction risks and schedule impacts
Quality & Compliance
  • Ensure construction meets approved drawings, specifications, and standards
  • Coordinate inspections, testing, and quality documentation
  • Resolve field conflicts, constructability issues, and non-conformances
Engineering & Project Coordination
  • Interface with engineering teams on constructability reviews and RFIs
  • Coordinate material deliveries (transformers, breakers, steel, control buildings)
  • Support commissioning, testing, and energization activities
Client & Stakeholder Interface
  • Serve as the primary on-site representative for clients and utility personnel
  • Participate in progress meetings and provide field updates
  • Coordinate with AHJs, inspectors, and third-party owners’ engineers
Cost & Contract Support
  • Track field costs, labor hours, and equipment usage
  • Support change management, time-and-material work, and daily reports
  • Assist with punch list completion and project closeout
QualificationsRequired
  • 8+ years of experience in electrical substation construction or T&D projects
  • Strong hands-on knowledge of substation construction means and methods
  • Proven leadership experience managing field crews and subcontractors
  • In-depth knowledge of electrical safety practices and energized work environments
  • Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications
  • Willingness to travel extensively and work from project sites
Preferred
  • Experience with utility-scale or EPC substation projects
  • Experience with high-voltage systems (69kV–500kV)
  • Electrical trade background or construction management degree
  • Familiarity with relay testing, protection & control, and commissioning processes