1

Substation Utility Worker Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Substation Engineer - Physical

Roanoke, VA ยท On-site

$107K - $165K/yr

GFT is seeking experienced Substation Physical Engineers (Electrical Engineers) Physical to join ... utility industry. * Interest in or direct experience working in the consulting engineering ...

As a substation engineer, you will lead or support utility and power substation projects and ... utility industry. * Interest in or direct experience working in the consulting engineering ...

Sr. Substation Engineer

Roanoke, VA ยท On-site

$107K - $165K/yr

As a substation engineer, you will lead or support utility and power substation projects and ... utility industry. * Interest in or direct experience working in the consulting engineering ...

Principal Substation Engineer

Roanoke, VA ยท On-site

$147K - $170K/yr

As a substation engineer, you will lead or support utility and power substation projects and ... utility industry. * Interest in or direct experience working in the consulting engineering ...

... Utility Companies. Responsibilities * Have advanced knowledge of the tasks required to perform all ... Have no issues with heights or working from a boom lift. * Understand, communicate and train hand ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Substation Utility Worker information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substation utility worker?

To thrive as a Substation Utility Worker, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, safety protocols, and basic mechanical skills, often backed by a high school diploma and completion of technical or apprenticeship training. Familiarity with protective equipment, power tools, and industry-specific systems like SCADA is typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective teamwork, and reliable communication are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of substations, reducing risks and supporting reliable power distribution.

What is a substation utility worker?

Substation Utility Workers are specialized technicians responsible for maintaining, repairing, and assisting in the operation of electrical substations. They ensure that the equipment and systems within substations function correctly to support the distribution of electricity. Their duties may include inspecting equipment, assisting in installations, performing routine maintenance, and following safety protocols to prevent accidents. These workers often collaborate with engineers and electricians to keep substations running efficiently and safely.

How to become a substation utility worker?

To become a substation utility worker, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an apprenticeship in electrical systems. Relevant skills include knowledge of safety procedures, electrical tools, and equipment, and some positions may require certifications such as OSHA safety training or specialized electrical licenses.

What are some common challenges substation utility workers face, and how can they prepare for them?

Substation Utility Workers often encounter challenges such as working in hazardous environments, exposure to high voltage equipment, and unpredictable weather conditions. To prepare, it's important to have strong safety awareness, follow protocols meticulously, and stay updated on the latest safety training. Additionally, effective communication with team members and a willingness to learn from experienced colleagues are key to navigating daily responsibilities successfully.

What is the difference between Substation Utility Worker vs Lineman?

AspectSubstation Utility WorkerLineman
CertificationsOSHA safety training, CDL often preferredOSHA safety training, CDL required
Work EnvironmentSubstations, electrical facilities, indoor/outdoorPower lines, poles, outdoor environments
Employer & Industry UsageElectric utilities, power companiesElectric utilities, construction companies

Substation Utility Workers focus on maintaining and repairing electrical equipment within substations, while Linemen work on installing and repairing overhead power lines. Both roles require safety certifications and work in outdoor environments, but their specific tasks and work settings differ. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right career path in the electrical utility industry.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Substation Utility Worker jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Substation Utility Worker job openings:
Infographic showing various Substation Utility Worker job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Substation Engineer - Physical

GFT.

Roanoke, VA โ€ข On-site

$107K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

GFT is seeking experienced Substation Physical Engineers (Electrical Engineers) Physical to join our expanding Power Group. This role is a hybrid in our Roanoke, VA or Charlotte, NC offices or FULLY Remote for the right person.ย 

Joining the power team at GFT means engaging in cutting-edge projects that drive the future of energy infrastructure. Our team excels in providing solutions for power transmission, distribution, and renewable energy, utilizing advanced technologies and creative problem-solving to meet today's diverse energy needs. Be part of a dynamic group dedicated to enhancing system reliability, sustainability, and efficiency while shaping the energy landscape for a resilient and sustainable future. Discover some of our signature power and energy projects here.ย 

What you'll be challenged to do:

As a Sr. Substation Engineer, you will lead or support utility and power substation projects and clients.ย  You will have need to have experience supporting or leading various substation projects from up through 765kV.ย  In addition, you will have the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to build effective relationships with clients and key stakeholders in the Power & Utility industry.

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

  • Prepare, provide guidance, or assist in preparing and developing the engineering deliverables for electric substation projects - including physical general arrangements, electrical one-line, detailed physical layouts, selection of substation equipment, equipment & construction specifications, and all associated electrical calculations and studies.
  • Calculations and studies include power system studies on utility and industrial/commercial electrical power transmission and distribution systems, including: short circuit, load flow, thermal underground power cable, shielding, lighitng, grounding analysis and other related studies.
  • Responsible for working closely with other engineering and design team members to coordinate overall design package and requirements.
  • Other duties include developing technical specifications, performing substation conceptual layouts, providing direction and guidance to drafters and designers, directing the flow of drafting and designer duties, ensuring design schedules are met, including regularly providing project status updates to project engineer.
  • Responsible for handling multiple projects and providing a detailed design package that complies with applicable substation engineering design standards and all safety codes.

What you will bring to our firm:ย 

  • Minimum Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
  • Professional Engineer License or on the path to obtaining professional licensure.
  • 3+ years progressive experience in design, engineering and project management within power and utility industry.
  • Interest in or direct experience working in the consulting engineering profession.
  • Demonstrated ability with project management software and tools (Microsoft Project or similar) for scope, schedule and budget management.
  • Design experience in high voltage substation, and distribution projects.
  • Experience in the creation of quality technical solutions and the design delivery of major power delivery projects.
  • Commitment to driving strong business performance, continuous improvement, and best practices.

What we prefer you bring:ย 

  • Experience with AutoCAD, MicroStation or Inventorย  ย 

Compensation:

The salary range for this role is $107,000-$165,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.

Featured Benefits:ย 

  • Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.
  • Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
  • Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.
  • Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.
  • Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
  • Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations
  • Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships - that's why we're the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry's brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century's experience, together we're building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives. GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Livesย 

GFT is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans' status or other characteristics protected by law.ย 

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

Location:St. Louis, MO, Chicago,IL, Marlton,NJ, Pittsburgh, PA, Phoenix, AZ, Roanoke, VA or Charlotte, NC

Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PMEmployment Status: Full-Timeย 

Internal Requisition ID:10923

Salary Range: $107,000 - $165,000;Salary dependent upon experience and geographic location

#LI-Hybrid

#LI-AM1

Employment Type: FULL_TIME