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Substation Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Substation Physical Engineer

Portland, OR

$104K - $133K/yr

We are looking for a Substation Physical Engineer to join our team. As an Career Substation ... Utilities and mobile operators rely on our Power Delivery Services Team for reliable power and ...

Substation Physical Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$104K - $133K/yr

We are looking for a Substation Physical Engineer to join our team. As an Career Substation ... Utilities and mobile operators rely on our Power Delivery Services Team for reliable power and ...

Design Engineer - Substation

Portland, OR · On-site

$104K - $133K/yr

... operating companies providing solutions for the utility, renewable energy, electric power ... The Design Engineer - Substation will perform substation design assignments including physical ...

Substation Project Engineer

Lake Oswego, OR · Hybrid

$101K - $129K/yr

Incorporate future-ready techniques, concept development, operating strategies, and various design ... substation switchyard layouts. * Develop plans, specifications, and cost estimates; preparing ...

Substation Project Engineer

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

$101K - $129K/yr

Incorporate future-ready techniques, concept development, operating strategies, and various design ... substation switchyard layouts. * Develop plans, specifications, and cost estimates; preparing ...

Senior Substation Physical Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

As an Career Substation Physical Engineer, candidates will have the opportunity to work on projects ... Utilities and mobile operators rely on our Power Delivery Services Team for reliable power and ...

As an Career Substation Physical Engineer, candidates will have the opportunity to work on projects ... Utilities and mobile operators rely on our Power Delivery Services Team for reliable power and ...

Support of substation physical design with bus analysis calculations and coordinating with multiple ... S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms.

Support of substation physical design with bus analysis calculations and coordinating with multiple ... S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms.

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Substation Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$5

$51

$60

How much do substation operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for substation operator in Oregon is $51.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.79 and $54.28 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 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 Oregon? For Substation Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Substation Operator jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Substation Operator jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Substation Operator jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Substation Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Substation Operator jobs in OR? For Substation Operator jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Substation Operator job openings in Oregon as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 24% Full Time, 74% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,250 per year, or $51.1 per hour.
Substation Physical Engineer

Substation Physical Engineer

Leidos

Portland, OR

$104K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 426 rated business services


Job description

Looking for an opportunity to make an impact?

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community. Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide the way we do business.

Your greatest work is ahead!

We are looking for a Substation Physical Engineer to join our team. As an Career Substation Physical Engineer, candidates will have the opportunity to work on projects for electric utilities at voltages from 12kV up to 500kV. This is an exciting and growing field in the power systems industry and allows candidates to get exposure to how the power generation such as that of renewable energy ties into the electric system. Candidates will be expected to use knowledge of digital logic design, AC and DC circuits to design substation electrical projects.

*Hybrid Work Schedule: (3 days in office)

  • 2-3 Days of In-Person Connection: Build strong relationships with colleagues and clients by being in the office or on-site. It's the perfect way to strengthen collaboration and ensure seamless communication.
  • Networking Events: Expand your horizons and make valuable connections at industry-leading events. You'll be in the right rooms, with the right people, at the right time.
  • Continuous Development: Stay at the forefront of innovation by participating in top-tier training programs and conferences. Personal growth isn't optional here; it's part of the package.
  • The Best of Both Worlds: With the flexibility to work remotely on other days, you'll have the freedom to focus, recharge, and bring your A-game to every opportunity

Successful candidates can look forward to a fast paced, diverse work environment and flexible work hours/work arrangements as well as managers who will encourage career development and growth including:

  • Engineer in Training Certificate (EIT).
  • Professional Engineer License (PE).
  • Project Management Professional (PMP).
  • Technical & Non-Technical Training Opportunities.
  • Leadership Opportunities.
  • Mentorship & Training Opportunities.
  • Opportunity to Lead, Grow, and Inspire a Dynamic Team

Are you ready to make an impact? Begin your journey of a flourishing and meaningful career, share your resume with us today!

The Challenge:

  • Experience in executing substation physical projects
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to interact with the internal team and clients to meet project needs.
  • Performing quality control checks on substation physical design projects.
  • Expected to read and design substation physical drawings such as one-line drawings, three-line drawings, plan-section drawings, foundation, grounding drawings.
  • Create and check bill of materials for substation physical
  • Expected to attend site visit at customer location

Successful candidates must comply with quality control and safe work practices and maintain compliance with project scope, schedule, and budget. This position will be a member of a design team comprised of engineers, designers, and CAD technicians and will work with client standards to implement design.


What Sets You Apart:

  • Mid-Level: Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, or related degree with two (2+) or more years of related substation physical design experience.
  • Senior-Level: Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, or related degree with four (4+) or more years of related substation physical design experience.
  • Lead -Level: Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, or related degree with eight (8+) or more years of related substation physical design experience.
  • Experience with grounding studies/lightning protection and lighting studies.
  • Demonstrate Excellent communication skills and ability to interact with the internal team and clients to meet project needs.
  • Ability to meet deadlines under pressure situations.
  • Collaborator and leader who can work effectively in team environment.
  • Self-starter who works independently with minimal direction.
  • Strong analytical skills and proven problem solver in both team and independent environments.
  • High level of computer competency.
  • Willingness to travel to project / client sites and Portland, OR office as needed.

You Might Also have:

  • US Citizen and able to pass a DOE Background
  • Engineer Intern ("EI" or "EIT") professional certification.
  • Professional Engineer ("PE") License.
  • Working knowledge of protection and control design
  • Experience with bus calculation
  • Experience with WinIGS or CDEGS
  • Master's degree in related field.

WHAT WE DO

Leidos is a trusted and technology-focused solutions provider. Utilities and mobile operators rely on our Power Delivery Services Team for reliable power and telecommunication expertise, as reflected through our work with more than 50 investor-owned utilities, more than 160municipals/cooperatives,as well as a growing number of mobile operators, local utility providers and private developers. In addition to providing engineering and project management services, Leidos works with an established group of industry-leading construction partners delivering meaningful Energy Delivery Solutions. Our recognition as an industry leader is confirmed by the latest national rankings by Engineering News-Record (ENR) ranking Leidos within the Top 10 T&D Firms, and Top 10 Power Firms. To explore and learn more, click here!

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainably. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community. Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide the way we do business.

We take care of our employees. Leidos seeks the best and the brightest, and in return, we invest in you, with an eye on your future, through career advancement, growth opportunities and continuous improvement via mentoring, formal and informal project management training and assistance with obtaining pertinent certifications. We challenge you to help solve some of the world's toughest problems, and reward you with a welcoming culture that recognizes the importance of a strong work/life balance, as well as competitive compensation and benefits. We believe that diversity and inclusion make us all better and offer the chance to have fun and make a difference.

PowerDelivery

PDSSUBSTATION

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:February 12, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $87,100.00 - $157,450.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


What Leidos employees say

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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