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Substation Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Develops and maintains knowledge of the Company's substation, distribution and transmission systems ... and associated operating procedures and guidelines Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in ...

Develops and maintains knowledge of the Company's substation, distribution and transmission systems ... and associated operating procedures and guidelines Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in ...

Not required, but 1-2 years of experience in substation operation, protective relaying, or ... Must pass System Operator/Power Dispatching (SO/PD) test to qualify. Ability to work under pressure ...

Monitor substation construction activities on a daily basis to ensure compliance with company ... Verify that work is completed using safe operating procedures and electrical safety procedures that ...

The right candidate will be a substation designer or engineer with deep AutoCAD and SDS experience ... Comfortable operating in a growing organization where processes are still being built and ownership ...

Senior Substation Electrical Engineer III ???? Tallmadge, OH ???? Engineered Products Department ... Standard Operating Procedures * High-voltage safety practices * Engineering policies and technical ...

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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.

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:
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.
Engineering Project Manager - Substation

Engineering Project Manager - Substation

Quanta Services

Columbus, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Quanta Services rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 80 rated construction


Job description

QISG leverages Quanta’s comprehensive resources to deliver collaborative solutions for our partners' energy infrastructure needs. We use in-house talent, expertise and resources to plan, design, engineer, manage, conduct maintenance on and construct projects.


Our turnkey service capabilities provide our customers with efficiency, consistency, attention to detail and safe execution. The QISG team brings together Engineering, Safety, Quality, Material Procurement, QA/QC, Right-of-Way Acquisition, Scheduling, Environmental Planning, Permitting, Title and Land Management expertise that ensure outstanding results for our clients.


At QISG, our Substation Engineering teams play a critical role in strengthening and modernizing the electric grid. We engineer, construct, upgrade, and maintain substations that transform, control, and protect the flow of electricity from generation sources to transmission and distribution systems. From greenfield substation builds to complex expansions and retrofit projects, our teams deliver safe, reliable, and high-performance infrastructure that supports grid stability and long-term energy resilience. By combining proven engineering practices with advanced technologies and innovative solutions, we provide cost-effective, sustainable, and dependable outcomes for our customers and communities.

The Engineering Project Manager – Substation provides technical leadership, project coordination, and engineering oversight required to deliver these projects successfully.  This role manages the full project lifecycle, from proposal and scope definition through detailed design, procurement support, construction coordination, commissioning, and project closeout. The Engineering Project Manager ensures that engineering deliverables are complete, constructible, compliant with standards, and aligned with project schedules and budgets.

Reporting to the Engineering Director, the Engineering Project Manager will serve as a key liaison between engineering, construction, and client teams, driving collaboration, resolving technical challenges, managing risk, and ensuring compliance with applicable codes, standards, and company procedures across substation projects.


  • Strategically collaborate with engineering and operational leadership on technical goals and oversee engineering work.
  • Act as a technical lead during the conceptual, preliminary engineering, detailed design, construction, and closeout phases of the project lifecycle.  This will include customer or jobsite visits as necessary during different phases of a project.
  • Define engineering scope, deliverables, assumptions, and technical requirements for each project.
  • Manage the performance of engineering partners, including developing and reviewing key performance indicators with senior leadership from the engineering partner.
  • Facilitate design reviews, constructability reviews, and coordination meetings. Identify project risks early and implement mitigation strategies.
  • Ensure internal technical documentation and standards are upheld to meet company and customer requirements.
  • Develop and implement training strategies that elevate the technical proficiency and performance of the substation engineering project management team. Support business development efforts by participating in client meetings, proposal development, and project planning activities.
  • Work with Quanta Engineering and Construction Operating Units to drive work.
  • Drive innovation and efficiency in engineering processes and methodologies, leveraging new technologies and best practices to enhance project delivery and performance.
  • Foster a culture of safety, quality, and integrity within the engineering department, promoting adherence to QISG's core values and principles.
  • Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and advancements in engineering practices, and incorporate relevant innovations into project designs and processes
  • Represent QISG in industry forums, conferences, and professional associations to enhance the company's reputation and thought leadership in the engineering community.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

  • Minimum of 10 years’ experience in the electric utility industry performing engineering related duties and/or management for high voltage electrical projects.
  • Bachelor of Science degree (B.S.) or Graduate degree in Engineering from an ABET accredited university.
  • P.E. license is preferred.
  • Proven track record of successfully leading multidisciplinary engineering teams and delivering complex projects on time and within budget.
  • Strong technical expertise in structural, civil, or electrical engineering, with a comprehensive understanding of engineering principles and practices.
  • Expert knowledge of electric utility engineering and construction standards.
  • Knowledge of utility industry processes including scheduling, contracts, coordinating, and managing all disciplines.
  • Excellent business acumen.
  • Knowledge of process and procedures for project controls and estimates.
  • Experience interpreting internal and external business issues, recommending best practices, mitigating risk and solving complex problems.
  • Demonstrated experience supporting external customers.
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams, clients, and external partners.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic plans, drive innovation, and achieve business objectives.
  • Knowledge of relevant industry codes, standards, and regulations, including ANSI, ASTM, ACI, AISC, IEEE, NEC, NESC, and others.
  • Able to deal with ambiguity and ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and determine priorities in a complex environment.

  • Competitive Compensation
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Holiday Pay
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage
  • Pet Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Professional Development
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Employee Discount Program

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company’s Human Resources department.


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