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Substation Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Substation Operator information

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$4

$43

$52

How much do substation operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for substation operator in Tennessee is $43.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.01 and $46.59 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 Tennessee? For Substation Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Substation Operator jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Substation Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Substation Operator jobs in TN? For Substation Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Substation Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substation Operator job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,209 per year, or $43.9 per hour.

Designer - Substation

Quanta Infrastructure Solutions Group, LLC

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

About Us
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.
About this Role
Every moment of every day, people all over the world rely on electricity provided by Quanta Services and its customers. With its highly skilled and innovative workforce, Quanta is the largest specialty contractor in North America that powers modern life. Find your future with us by being a part of something bigger - leading the energy transition in building a better world for generations to come.
We encourage and inspire our people to embrace opportunities within our corporate office and 200 operating companies providing solutions for the utility, renewable energy, electric power, industrial, and communications industries worldwide.
Quanta's culture is about creating an environment where all employees can be themselves, are valued, and have an equal opportunity to succeed. When you join our team, you join a dynamic culture in which career development is encouraged, excellence is rewarded, and diversity is valued.
What You'll Do
The Designer - Substation is responsible for supporting substation design projects across the QISG platform by performing routine 2D/3D Physical and/or Protection & Control (P&C) design tasks. This role requires working knowledge of basic design techniques and industry procedures, with an emphasis on accuracy, standards compliance, and CAD proficiency.
Ideal candidates will demonstrate strong familiarity with substation materials, construction methods, and utility design standards. Proficiency with CAD platforms-including AutoCAD, AutoCAD Electrical, AutoCAD Map 3D, Inventor, and Substation Design Suite (SDS) for Physical and/or P&C applications-is preferred. The Designer will work under the direction of a Lead Designer and collaborate closely with engineers and drafting teams to develop and maintain quality drawing packages for both internal and client-facing deliverables.
  • Work on design aspects from project inception to completion on various substation projects.
  • Utilize 3D and/or smart design software for substation design.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of quality control procedures to ensure the highest standards of workmanship.
  • Take personal responsibility for the quality and accuracy of his/her work.
  • Research information in catalogs, specifications, corporate standards, or other reference material.
  • Learn and properly use the document management system and suggest improvements.
  • Learn and apply corporate standard engineering practices.
  • Bring potential project-related problems and possible solutions to the attention of the stakeholders.
  • Travel out of town for short periods of time as required by projects and assignments.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

What You'll Bring
  • Associates degree in Drafting & Design or equivalent certification is preferred. A 4-year Eng Tech degree is a plus.
  • Experience in drafting disciplines with a background in substation design is highly preferred.
  • Minimum of 4 years' experience in the electric utility industry performing detailed CAD/design for high voltage substation projects. More experience could result in a higher-level position.
  • Experience with 3D and/or smart design software (AutoCAD, AutoCAD Electrical, Inventor, SDS, etc.) is preferred.
  • Word processing, spread sheet, and e-mail software.
  • Extensive knowledge of various CAD programs
  • Basic knowledge of the major components of a substation
  • Basic oral and written communications
  • Basic knowledge of the types of drawings required to construct an electrical substation.
  • Working in a team environment
  • Communicating effectively with co-workers
  • Able to deal with ambiguity and ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks and determine priorities in a complex environment.

Travel Requirements:
  • Role will require travel as necessary to achieve job responsibilities. but travel will be minimal to support project related site visits.

What You'll Get
  • Competitive salary - overtime is available
  • Comprehensive health and retirement benefits
  • Professional development opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Employer
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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