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Substation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Substation Engineer

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$97K - $124K/yr

The Substation Engineer will support the overall design and execution of QTS utility infrastructure. This role will support the delivery of utility capacity at each campus for data center substation ...

Substation physical design responsibilities include overall engineering and analysis for new switch yards and substations, additions, and modifications. Includes equipment specifications and ...

Substation physical design responsibilities include overall engineering and analysis for new switch yards and substations, additions, and modifications. Includes equipment specifications and ...

Substation physical design responsibilities include overall engineering and analysis for new switch yards and substations, additions, and modifications. Includes equipment specifications and ...

Substation physical design responsibilities include overall engineering and analysis for new switch yards and substations, additions, and modifications. Includes equipment specifications and ...

Substation physical design responsibilities include overall engineering and analysis for new switch yards and substations, additions, and modifications. Includes equipment specifications and ...

Substation physical design responsibilities include overall engineering and analysis for new switch yards and substations, additions, and modifications. Includes equipment specifications and ...

Substation physical design responsibilities include overall engineering and analysis for new switch yards and substations, additions, and modifications. Includes equipment specifications and ...

Substation physical design responsibilities include overall engineering and analysis for new switch yards and substations, additions, and modifications. Includes equipment specifications and ...

Substation physical design responsibilities include overall engineering and analysis for new switch yards and substations, additions, and modifications. Includes equipment specifications and ...

Substation physical design responsibilities include overall engineering and analysis for new switch yards and substations, additions, and modifications. Includes equipment specifications and ...

Substation physical design responsibilities include overall engineering and analysis for new switch yards and substations, additions, and modifications. Includes equipment specifications and ...

Job Summary The Substation Technician will provide engineering for the design of substation facilities for voltages up to and including 500 kV. Projects may be for the interconnection of Battery ...

Substation physical design responsibilities include overall engineering and analysis for new switch yards and substations, additions, and modifications. Includes equipment specifications and ...

Substation physical design responsibilities include overall engineering and analysis for new switch yards and substations, additions, and modifications. Includes equipment specifications and ...

Substation physical design responsibilities include overall engineering and analysis for new switch yards and substations, additions, and modifications. Includes equipment specifications and ...

Substation physical design responsibilities include overall engineering and analysis for new switch yards and substations, additions, and modifications. Includes equipment specifications and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Substation information

See Virginia salary details

$33.7K

$103.7K

$151.2K

How much do substation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for substation in Virginia is $103,707.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,900.00 and $134,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Substation vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectSubstationPower Plant Operator
CertificationsElectrical certifications, technical trainingOperational licenses, technical training
Work EnvironmentElectrical substations, outdoor and indoorPower plants, control rooms, outdoor
Industry UsageElectric utility companies, transmissionPower generation facilities, utilities
Job FocusManaging electrical equipment, switching, maintenanceOperating and controlling power generation equipment

Substation workers focus on maintaining and operating electrical substations, ensuring reliable power transmission. Power plant operators manage the generation process at power plants. While both roles require technical skills and safety certifications, substations are part of the transmission network, whereas power plant operators work at generation sites. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role in the energy sector.

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

To thrive as a Substation Technician, you need a solid background in electrical systems, high-voltage safety, and an associate degree or technical certification in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, protective relays, and industry-standard testing tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, troubleshooting skills, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this position. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe, reliable operation and maintenance of critical power infrastructure.

What are substation jobs?

Substation jobs refer to a range of roles focused on the construction, maintenance, and operation of electrical substations, which are key facilities in the power transmission and distribution network. These positions can include substation technicians, engineers, operators, and maintenance personnel. Their primary responsibilities involve monitoring equipment, ensuring safe and reliable power flow, performing inspections and repairs, and responding to outages or emergencies. Substation jobs require strong technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and often some level of electrical certification or training.

What are some common challenges faced by substation technicians and how can they be managed on the job?

Substation technicians often encounter challenges such as working in hazardous environments, managing high-voltage equipment, and responding to emergency outages. To manage these, technicians must adhere strictly to safety protocols, continuously update their technical knowledge, and collaborate closely with engineers and line workers. Effective communication and staying current with industry best practices can help prevent accidents and ensure smooth operations. Many organizations also provide ongoing training to help technicians advance and stay prepared for new technologies in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Substation jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Substation jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Substation jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Substation job openings:
Infographic showing various Substation job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,707 per year, or $49.9 per hour.
Substation Engineer

$97K - $124K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

The Substation Engineer will support the overall design and execution of QTS utility infrastructure. This role will support the delivery of utility capacity at each campus for data center substation and utility build projects. This role will interface and collaborate with many critical stakeholders, including but not limited to: energy leaders responsible for utility contracts and negotiations; utility engagement developing relationships with utilities; pre-development leads evaluating new properties; operations leaders managing load growth projections; and development team project leaders planning and building new data centers and substations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES - Other duties may be assigned.

  • Design and develop electrical substation layouts, schematics, and wiring diagrams, focusing on standardization for scale.
  • Perform load flow, short circuit, and coordination studies for substation projects or review the ones provided under EPC contracts.
  • Oversee the construction, installation, and commissioning of substation equipment and systems.
  • Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of substation equipment to ensure optimal performance and compliance with safety standards.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to substation operations.
  • Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and contractors to meet project timelines and budgets.
  • Prepare technical reports, specifications, and documentation for substation projects.
  • Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and regulatory requirements.
  • Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
  • Provide technical support and training to junior engineers and field personnel.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field.
  • Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and/or Engineer in Training (EIT) registration.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Proficient in electrical design software (e.g., AutoCAD, ETAP, SKM).
  • Strong knowledge of electric substation equipment, including transformers, circuit breakers, switchgear, and protective relays. This should include 15kV through 500kV.
  • Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., IEEE, NESC, ANSI, NEC).
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Willingness to travel up to 25% to project sites as needed.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
  • 10 Years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Knowledge of electric transmission systems and design

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing situations at a high-growth company.
  • Ability to prioritize, multitask, and deliver high-quality work in tight timeframes.

TOTAL REWARDS

This role is also eligible for a competitive benets package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; exible spending and HSA accounts; paid holidays; paid time off; paid volunteer days; employee assistance program; tuition assistance; parental leave; military leave assistance; QTS scholarship for dependents; wellness program, and other company benets. This role is bonus-eligible and may qualify for equity.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field.
  • Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and/or Engineer in Training (EIT) registration.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Proficient in electrical design software (e.g., AutoCAD, ETAP, SKM).
  • Strong knowledge of electric substation equipment, including transformers, circuit breakers, switchgear, and protective relays. This should include 15kV through 500kV.
  • Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., IEEE, NESC, ANSI, NEC).
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Willingness to travel up to 25% to project sites as needed.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
  • 10 Years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Knowledge of electric transmission systems and design

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing situations at a high-growth company.
  • Ability to prioritize, multitask, and deliver high-quality work in tight timeframes.

TOTAL REWARDS

This role is also eligible for a competitive benets package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; exible spending and HSA accounts; paid holidays; paid time off; paid volunteer days; employee assistance program; tuition assistance; parental leave; military leave assistance; QTS scholarship for dependents; wellness program, and other company benets. This role is bonus-eligible and may qualify for equity.

We conform to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or discrimination claim.

The "Know Your Rights" Poster is included here:

Know Your Rights (English)

Know Your Rights (Spanish)

The pay transparency policy is available here:

Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Poster-Formatted

QTS is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to talentacquisition@qtsdatacenters.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.