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Substation Tech Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Substation Engineer 1 - Grid

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$62K - $90K/yr

Description As a Substation Engineer, this position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and ... An understanding of the practical application of electrical engineering and technology including ...

Description As a Substation Engineer, this position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and ... An understanding of the practical application of electrical engineering and technology including ...

Showing results 41-60

Substation Tech information

See Oregon salary details

$35.9K

$110.6K

$161.2K

How much do substation tech jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for substation tech in Oregon is $110,596.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $143,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a substation tech?

Substation Techs, or Substation Technicians, are skilled workers responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing the equipment found in electrical substations. They ensure the safe and reliable operation of transformers, circuit breakers, and other critical components that help distribute electricity from power plants to homes and businesses. Their work often involves performing inspections, troubleshooting electrical problems, and following strict safety protocols. Substation Techs play a vital role in keeping the electrical grid running smoothly and preventing outages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substation tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Substation Tech, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, power distribution, and safety procedures, typically supported by a technical diploma or associate degree in electrical technology. Familiarity with tools such as multimeters, SCADA systems, and protective relay testing equipment, as well as certifications like OSHA or NETA, is common. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These qualifications ensure the safe, reliable operation and maintenance of substations, which are critical to the stability of the electrical grid.

What are some common challenges faced by substation technicians on the job?

Substation Technicians often work in environments where safety and precision are paramount, as they handle high-voltage equipment and complex electrical systems. Common challenges include troubleshooting unexpected outages, working outdoors in various weather conditions, and staying updated with evolving technology and regulations. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as technicians frequently collaborate with engineers, linemen, and control center personnel to ensure reliable power delivery. Proactive problem-solving and a strong safety mindset help technicians navigate these challenges successfully.

What is the difference between Substation Tech vs Power Line Technician?

AspectSubstation TechPower Line Technician
CredentialsTypically requires electrical certifications, associate degree or technical trainingRequires lineman training, CDL license, and climbing certifications
Work EnvironmentIndoor and outdoor, primarily within substations and electrical facilitiesPrimarily outdoor, working on power lines and poles
Employer & IndustryElectric utilities, power generation companiesElectric utilities, construction companies, contractors
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Substation Tech and a Power Line Technician lies in their work environment and focus. Substation Techs work mainly within electrical substations, maintaining and installing equipment, while Power Line Technicians focus on installing and repairing overhead and underground power lines. Both roles require specialized certifications and are essential in the electric utility industry, but they serve different parts of the power delivery system.

How hard is it to be a substation technician?

Becoming a substation technician requires technical knowledge of electrical systems, safety procedures, and often involves completing an apprenticeship or technical training program. The job can be physically demanding and requires attention to detail, but with proper training and certifications, it is a manageable career path for those interested in electrical infrastructure.
Infographic showing various Substation Tech job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,596 per year, or $53.2 per hour.

Intermediate Substation Structural Engineer

WSP

Lake Oswego, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago


WSP rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description


WSP is currently initiating a search for an Intermediate Level Structural Engineer for our Lake Oswego, Oregon office. Be involved in projects with our Pacific Civil/Structural Substation team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our clients' objectives and solves their challenges.
This Opportunity
Provides support to technical staff, engineers, and project managers for the planning, analysis, design, and delivery of structural engineering solutions supporting electrical substation projects in the public and private sector. Tasks may include basic assistance with the research, design, concept development, and construction of load-bearing structures or structural elements (steel structures, rigid bus supports, and foundations). Generates accurate and concise reports and documentation regarding assigned installations and construction specifications. Ensures that responsibilities are delivered and adhered to with a level of quality that meets or exceeds acceptable industry standards for design, safety, structural soundness, and functionality.
WSP brings global expertise in power delivery, power generation, and program management-anchored by the acquisition of POWER Engineers, Inc. TRC Companies have now joined WSP, deepening our power practice and expanding our energy advisory and intelligent grid services. We're partnering with clients to shape how energy systems evolve around the world-and we need your help.
Your Impact
  • Work with other engineers, designers, and drafters, and self-perform all aspects of electrical substation structural design, including foundations, structural supports, and control building design.
  • Support of substation physical design with bus analysis calculations and coordinating with multiple disciplines on results.
  • Preparation of calculation packages to satisfy client, code, and WSP requirements.
  • Coordinate with all disciplines contributing to electrical substation design.
  • Assure plans adhere to client and WSP standards.
  • Ensure dimensions, materials, and quality for assigned projects meet the contract requirements.
  • Review shop drawings, respond to RFIs, and provide construction phase support.
  • Strong command of the English language with good written and oral communication skills to work effectively with other team members.
  • Ability to successfully participate in multiple projects concurrently and manage budgets and schedules.
  • We expect everyone on the team to assume ownership of the project's goals and success.
  • Complete training on assigned tasks.
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources, and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.
Who You Are
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Structural or Civil Engineering, or closely related discipline (or equivalent experience).
  • 1 to 3 years of relevant post education experience.
  • Knowledge of structural engineering principles, practices, process, design/build, and the application to project work-related issues.
  • Familiarity with infrastructure planning, design, and construction management; including modifications to existing infrastructure and new design.
  • Highly familiar with relevant structural and civil construction laws, codes, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.
  • Analytical mindset with an ability to exercise sound judgement in evaluating situations and making decisions.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to an engineering and non-engineering audience.
  • Capable self-leadership with attention to detail, accuracy, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives.
  • Basic proficiency with technical writing, office automation, software, technology, math principles, physics, predictive models, spreadsheets, and tools.
  • Experience with discipline-specific design software (i.e., RISA 3D, RISA Foundation, L-Pile, MathCAD).
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
  • Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Engineer in Training Certification.
  • Prior design experience.
  • A member of and/or actively participate in local professional practice organizations.

Disclaimer
  • Relocation assistance is not available for this position.

About Us
About WSP
WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.
www.wsp.com
WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.
At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?
WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.
The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.
NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:
WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.

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