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Substation Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Quanta Services

Directional Drill Operator

Sumner, WA · On-site

$34.60 - $59.75/hr

Our expertise is in power, transmission, distribution, and substation projects. We are a leading ... Directional Drill Operator If you enjoy working with a great group of professionals, are accurate ...

Potelco, Inc.

Directional Drill Operator

Sumner, WA · On-site

$34.60/hr

Our expertise is in power, transmission, distribution, and substation projects. We are a leading ... About this Role Directional Drill Operator If you enjoy working with a great group of professionals ...

Potelco, Inc.

Directional Drill Operator

Sumner, WA

$34.60 - $59.75/hr

Our expertise is in power, transmission, distribution, and substation projects. We are a leading ... About this Role Directional Drill Operator If you enjoy working with a great group of professionals ...

Quanta Services

Mainline Trench Operator

Sumner, WA · On-site

$34.60 - $59.75/hr

Our expertise is in power, transmission, distribution, and substation projects. We are a leading ... Mainline Trench Operator If you enjoy working with a great group of professionals, are accurate ...

Potelco, Inc.

Mainline Trench Operator

Sumner, WA

$34.60 - $59.75/hr

Our expertise is in power, transmission, distribution, and substation projects. We are a leading ... About this Role Mainline Trench Operator If you enjoy working with a great group of professionals ...

Potelco, Inc.

Mainline Trench Operator

Sumner, WA · On-site

$34.60/hr

Our expertise is in power, transmission, distribution, and substation projects. We are a leading ... About this Role Mainline Trench Operator If you enjoy working with a great group of professionals ...

Potelco, Inc.

Vac Truck Operator

Sumner, WA

$34.60 - $60.85/hr

Our expertise is in power, transmission, distribution, and substation projects. We are a leading ... The Vac Truck Operator is responsible for the safe transportation and operation of the vacuum truck ...

Quanta Services

Vac Truck Operator

Sumner, WA · On-site

$34.60 - $60.85/hr

Our expertise is in power, transmission, distribution, and substation projects. We are a leading ... The Vac Truck Operator is responsible for the safe transportation and operation of the vacuum truck ...

Potelco, Inc.

Vac Truck Operator

Sumner, WA · On-site

$34.60/hr

Our expertise is in power, transmission, distribution, and substation projects. We are a leading ... The Vac Truck Operator is responsible for the safe transportation and operation of the vacuum truck ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsSubstation Operator JobsSubstation Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA

Substation Operator information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$6

$54

$65

How much do substation operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for substation operator in Seattle, WA is $54.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51.44 and $58.41 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.

More about Substation Operator jobs

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Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Substation Operator job openings:

Substation Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substation Operator job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,364 per year, or $55 per hour.

Heavy Civil Substation & Power-Lead GPS Grade Checker

R-2 Contractors

Seattle, WA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Join Our Team at R-2 Contractors!
Since 2009, R-2 Contractors has been a trusted leader in Civil & Underground construction, specializing in power infrastructure projects nationwide. From renewable energy to major utility work, we deliver expert excavation, grading, trenching, and foundation services that keep communities connected and moving forward.
What truly sets us apart is our culture. At R-2, we're a team of people who are hungry to take on challenging projects, humble enough to learn, grow, and collaborate, and smart in how we plan, build, and solve problems. We believe in showing up for each other, doing things the right way, and owning every aspect of our work. If you take pride in precision, thrive in tough conditions, and live by "Pride, Grit, & Own It!," you'll fit right in! We're building more than infrastructure-we're building a team that pushes limits and stands behind every job
we do.
GPS Grade Checker / Machine Control Specialist
Heavy Civil - Substation & Power Infrastructure Projects
Location: Project-Based (Travel Required)
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced GPS Grade Checker / Machine Control Specialist to support heavy civil substation and power infrastructure projects. This role is responsible for GPS layout, machine control setup, data management, modeling adjustments, hardware troubleshooting, and grade verification in a high-production environment.
This position plays a critical role in ensuring trenching, duct banks, grounding systems, equipment foundations, and mass excavation are built accurately and pass inspection the first time.
Key Responsibilities
GPS & Field Operations
  • Operate data collectors and rover units
  • Perform localization and verify project control
  • Establish temporary and permanent base stations
  • Verify control points and benchmarks
  • Perform pre-construction and daily layout/stakeout
  • Complete as-built data acquisition and reporting
  • Maintain thorough QA/QC documentation

Machine Control & Heavy Equipment
  • Operate heavy equipment equipped with GPS systems (dozers, excavators, graders, etc.)
  • Setup, calibrate, and verify GPS machine control systems
  • Build and adjust surfaces, points, and linework in the field
  • Manage project files between field units and machines
  • Install, troubleshoot, and repair sensors, antennas, cables, and hardware
  • Support operators in real-time production

Substation & Power Infrastructure Support
  • Layout and verify power duct banks and conduit runs
  • Confirm trench depth, bedding grades, and grounding grid elevations
  • Verify equipment pad and foundation elevations
  • Monitor yard cut/fill and drainage slopes
  • Ensure compliance with civil and electrical drawings

Modeling & Data Management
  • Read and interpret civil, structural, and electrical blueprints
  • Utilize Civil 3D, Carlson, Magnet, Bentley, or similar platforms
  • Perform quantity takeoffs
  • Manage data from project inception through closeout
  • Resolve field model discrepancies and make real-time corrections
  • Understand datums, projections, and units of measurement

Hardware & Technical Troubleshooting
  • Diagnose and repair GPS rovers and data collectors
  • Update firmware and software
  • Troubleshoot networking and localization issues
  • Maintain machine-mounted GPS systems
Hardware familiarity may include: Trimble, Topcon, John Deere Integrated GPS, Total Stations, Laser systems, Theodolites, and Builder's Levels.
Top Outcomes
  • Accurate grade control with zero rework
  • Reliable machine control performance
  • Clean, inspection-ready documentation
  • Real-time model corrections that protect schedule
  • Full understanding of daily site GPS processes

Qualifications
  • 3+ years heavy civil GPS or survey experience (substation/power preferred)
  • Experience operating GPS-equipped heavy equipment
  • Strong machine control background
  • Experience with mass excavation, duct banks, and structural foundations
  • Proficiency in modeling and takeoff software
  • Strong math, elevation calculation, and problem-solving skills
  • Mechanically inclined with the ability to troubleshoot hardware

Work Environment & Physical Requirements
  • Outdoor heavy civil construction sites
  • Substations, renewable energy, and power infrastructure projects
  • Ability to work long hours, overtime, and travel
  • Stand for extended periods and navigate uneven terrain
  • Lift and maintain GPS and related equipment

Ready to Join Our Team?
If you're ready to bring your expertise and passion for construction to a growing company, apply today and be part of a team that values quality, integrity, and precision in every project!
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
R2 Contractors Terms and Conditions:
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