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Substation Welding Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Substation Welding information

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

To thrive as a Substation Welder, you need expertise in welding techniques, blueprint reading, and a strong understanding of safety protocols, often backed by a welding certification or vocational training. Familiarity with welding equipment (such as MIG, TIG, and stick welders), metal fabrication tools, and OSHA safety standards is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the structural integrity and operational safety of electrical substations, which are critical for reliable power distribution.

What is the difference between Substation Welding vs Substation Electrical Technician?

AspectSubstation WeldingSubstation Electrical Technician
CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS)Electrical certifications (e.g., NICET, journeyman license)
Work EnvironmentWelding sites, outdoor substations, fabrication areasSubstation sites, control rooms, maintenance areas
Job FocusMetal fabrication, welding, assembly of substation componentsElectrical system installation, troubleshooting, maintenance
Industry UsagePower generation, transmission, and distributionPower distribution, electrical infrastructure maintenance

While both roles work within substations, Substation Welders focus on welding and fabricating metal components, requiring welding certifications. Substation Electrical Technicians handle electrical systems, requiring electrical certifications. Both are essential in power infrastructure but serve different technical functions.

What is substation welding?

Substation welding refers to the specialized process of joining metal components within electrical substations, which are critical parts of the power distribution and transmission system. Welders in this field work on structures such as busbars, grounding grids, support frameworks, and transformer tanks to ensure structural integrity and electrical conductivity. The work often requires knowledge of various welding techniques, strict adherence to safety protocols, and familiarity with electrical hazards. Substation welders play a vital role in maintaining the reliability and safety of the electrical grid.

What are some common challenges faced by substation welders during large-scale projects, and how can they be addressed?

Substation welders often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, exposure to adverse weather conditions, and coordinating with multiple trades on-site. These challenges can be addressed by adhering strictly to safety protocols, participating in thorough pre-job planning meetings, and maintaining open communication with other team members, such as engineers and electricians. Additionally, staying updated on the latest welding techniques and certifications helps ensure quality work and smoother project execution.
What are popular job titles related to Substation Welding jobs in Virginia? For Substation Welding jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Substation Welding jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Substation Welding jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Substation Welding jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Substation Welding job openings:
Substation Welding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substation Welding job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Substation Construction Apprentice (Statewide)

Phillips, Inc.

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Phillips 66 rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 86 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Summary:

We are seeking Substation Construction Apprentices to join our T&D Services team in Alabama and Georgia. This is an entry level position that will enter the Phillips Inc. Apprenticeship Program.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Perform substation construction and maintenance with minimal to no supervision. This includes trenching, installing conduit, pulling cable, wiring of outdoor electrical equipment, installing ground grids, installing foundations, setting steel structures, installing buswork and conductors, welding aluminum buswork, setting and adjusting air switches, installing circuit breakers, and setting main power transformers.
  • Follow all verbal and written instructions from senior crew members.
  • Operate company vehicle.
  • Assist Electricians by making ready materials and stocking trucks.
  • Learn to operate aerial lifts, forklifts, skidsteers, backhoes, excavators, boom trucks, and other equipment used in the construction of electrical substations.
  • Perform services in a safe and timely manner.
  • Maintain company equipment in a safe and efficient manner.

Requirements:

  • Clean driving record, Class A Commercial Driver's License preferred.
  • Effective communication skills.
  • Ability to perform manual labor i.e., digging, trenching, lifting, etc.
  • Be able to lift/move 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to pass a skills assessment at start of employment.
  • Pass a pre-employment drug screen, physical, and background check.

Education and Experience:

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • 1 year construction experience.
  • Completion of an accredited Substation Apprentice Program, or 2-4 years in the T&D construction industry.

Candidates that accept an offer of employment are required to undergo and successfully complete a pre-employment physical examination. This exam is essential to ensure that all potential employees meet the necessary health and fitness standards for the role. The examination includes a series of tests and evaluations conducted by a certified medical professional to assess overall physical health, identify any potential medical conditions that could interfere with job performance, and verify that the candidate is capable of safely performing the essential duties of the position.

Completion and clearance of this physical are mandatory steps in the hiring process.

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