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Substation Operator Jobs in Redmond, OR (NOW HIRING)

Understanding ofpower plant operating procedures. * Ability to work with sub-contractors and field ... Regular work in substation control buildings with occasional outdoor work in energized substation ...

Substation Operator information

See Redmond, OR salary details

$5

$51

$61

How much do substation operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for substation operator in Redmond, OR is $51.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.88 and $54.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 job categories do people searching Substation Operator jobs in Redmond, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Substation Operator jobs in Redmond, OR are:

What cities near Redmond, OR are hiring for Substation Operator jobs?

Cities near Redmond, OR with the most Substation Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Substation Operator job openings in Redmond, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,507 per year, or $51.2 per hour.

Utility Scale Horizontal Directional Drill Division Manager

Prineville, OR • On-site

R-2 Contractors
Construction • 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Join Our Team at R-2 Contractors!
R-2 Contractors is seeking an accomplished and visionary Utility-Scale Horizontal Directional Drill Division Manager to lead and grow our Horizontal Directional Drill Division. This executive-level leadership role is responsible for building a high-performing organization that consistently delivers safe, productive, and high-quality trenchless conduit installation projects across the United States.
Working in partnership with the Operations Manager and executive leadership, the Division Manager will oversee all aspects of Horizontal Directional Drill operations, including bore planning, drill setup, pilot bores, reaming, drill fluid management, conduit installation, utility crossings, equipment utilization, and operational execution. This individual will be responsible for developing people, improving operational performance, strengthening customer relationships, and driving long-term division growth.
Success in this role is measured not only by operational excellence, but by the ability to build exceptional leaders, earn the confidence of customers, and create a Horizontal Directional Drill Division that reflects the R-2 standard of excellence.
Position: Utility-Scale Horizontal Directional Drill Division Manager
Location: Gilbert, AZ or Prineville, OR
Travel Requirements:

  • Approximately 25% travel each month to project sites nationwide is required
  • Additional travel may be required to support critical project meetings, customer meetings, leadership meetings, safety initiatives, quality audits, compliance activities, or other business needs
Salary: $180k - $250k DOE
Key Responsibilities:
  • Provide strategic leadership for all Horizontal Directional Drill operations across multiple utility-scale construction projects
  • Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of Superintendents, Foremen, Drill Operators, Locators, and field leaders
  • Lead all aspects of trenchless conduit installation, including bore planning, drill setup, pilot bores, reaming, drill fluid management, conduit installation, utility crossings, and operational execution
  • Plan and approve bore profiles, utility crossing strategies, and drilling methodologies to ensure safe and efficient execution
  • Ensure manpower, drilling equipment, tooling, materials, subcontractors, and resources are properly planned and coordinated to support project execution
  • Coordinate drilling resources, support equipment, drill fluid systems, and production sequencing to maximize efficiency
  • Ensure bores are completed safely, accurately, and in accordance with project specifications
  • Partner closely with Project Managers, Operations Leadership, Estimating, and executive leadership to ensure successful project delivery
  • Drive operational consistency through planning, communication, accountability, and execution
  • Monitor production, productivity, equipment utilization, quality, and overall operational performance
  • Support project planning, scheduling, forecasting, budgeting, and resource management
  • Develop future leaders through coaching, mentorship, performance management, and succession planning
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, General Contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and project stakeholders
  • Identify opportunities to improve productivity, efficiency, safety, quality, and operational performance throughout the division
  • Champion continuous improvement initiatives while reinforcing company processes and best practices
  • Promote a culture where safety is always the highest priority
  • Lead by example while living and reinforcing the R-2 Core Values every day
Requirements:
  • Minimum 10 years of Horizontal Directional Drilling construction experience, including utility-scale power, renewable energy, transmission, substation, telecommunications, or large underground infrastructure projects
  • Proven experience leading multiple Horizontal Directional Drill crews, Superintendents, and large-scale trenchless construction operations
  • Strong knowledge of bore planning, utility locating, pilot bores, reaming, drill fluid management, conduit installation, utility crossings, and trenchless construction methods
  • Demonstrated experience managing large Horizontal Directional Drill rigs, support equipment, tooling, and drilling operations
  • Strong understanding of production planning, operational scheduling, risk management, and resource allocation
  • Strong financial and business acumen with experience managing operational budgets and project performance
  • Proven ability to build, lead, and develop high-performing teams
  • Excellent leadership, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to build strong working relationships with customers, project teams, and executive leadership
  • Demonstrated commitment to safety, accountability, operational excellence, and quality workmanship
  • Ability to travel as required to support projects, customers, and company operations
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
  • Ability to successfully complete pre-employment drug screening and background check
What Success Looks Like:
The successful Horizontal Directional Drill Division Manager:
  • Builds a division where employees are engaged, developed, and proud to work
  • Consistently delivers safe, productive, and high-quality trenchless conduit installation
  • Develops strong Superintendents, Foremen, Drill Operators, Locators, and future leaders
  • Earns the trust and confidence of customers through reliable execution and exceptional performance
  • Delivers accurate, efficient, and high-quality conduit installations that support project success
  • Plans proactively, communicates effectively, and resolves challenges before they impact production
  • Continuously strengthens the division through improved people, systems, processes, and operational performance
Our Leadership Philosophy:
At R-2 Contractors, technical expertise may open the door—but leadership is defined by how you develop people, build teams, and live our Core Values.
Our leaders are expected to:
  • Lead with integrity, humility, professionalism, and accountability
  • Put the safety and success of their people first
  • Coach, mentor, and develop future leaders
  • Build trust through consistent execution and open communication
  • Foster teamwork while empowering others to make decisions and grow
  • Hold themselves and others accountable to the highest standards
  • Protect and strengthen the culture that makes R-2 different
  • Leave the division stronger than they found it
The R-2 Core Values
PRIDE - We take ownership of our work, our people, our equipment, and our reputation. Every project reflects the pride we have in our craft.
  • Do What's Right
  • Put Your Name On It
  • Never Accept Mediocrity
  • I Am R-2
  • Grow or Die
GRIT - We embrace challenges, solve problems, overcome adversity, and never allow obstacles to define our success.
  • Dig Deep and Grind It Out
  • Give It Your All
  • Do What It Takes
  • Dedication
OWN IT! - We don't make excuses or point fingers. We own the outcome, communicate early, solve problems, and continually improve ourselves and our teams.
  • Do What You Say
  • Be Accountable
  • If You Ain't First, You're Last
  • Accept Criticism
  • Own Your Position
Benefits:
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance (company funded plans available for the entire family)
  • 401(k) with 3% company match
  • 5-Year Employment Appreciation Bonus

Ready to Join Our Team?
If you're ready to lead one of the premier Heavy Civil divisions in the utility-scale power industry while building exceptional people, delivering outstanding projects, and shaping the future of R-2 Contractors, we'd love to hear from you.
At R-2 Contractors, we don't simply move earth—we build infrastructure, develop leaders, strengthen teams, and create a culture that refuses to settle for anything less than excellence.
Apply today and help us build what's next.
R-2 Contractors is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
 

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