Substation Commissioning Technician I, II, III or IV - N. Virginia 75% TRAVEL
About Ampirical
Ampirical is shaping the future of the power grid with precision, innovation, and purpose. The company focuses on quality, forward-thinking solutions and empowers its team to grow and thrive. Ampirical builds careers, not just projects, offering a place where contributions matter and professional development is supported.
About the Role
This is a remote position with high travel (up to 75%), primarily serving Northern Virginia. We are seeking skilled Testing & Commissioning Technician(s) at levels I, II, III, or IV to support acceptance testing, maintenance, and commissioning of high-voltage substation equipment. The role requires strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety while working in energized utility environments.
Responsibilities
- Independently perform testing and commissioning on circuit breakers, power transformers, CTs/PTs, switches, bus systems, and protective relays.
- Conduct electrical tests including insulation resistance, contact resistance, power factor (Doble), TTR, winding resistance, timing/SFRA, and GPS-based end-to-end relay testing.
- Troubleshoot relay misoperations and equipment failures.
- Interpret and verify one-line diagrams, protection logic, wiring schematics, and as-built drawings.
- Operate industry-standard equipment such as Megger, Doble, Vanguard, Omicron, and related tools.
- Support SCADA/RTU I/O verification and automation testing.
- Maintain accurate test reports, relay settings documentation, and redline drawings.
- Ensure compliance with NETA, NERC PRC, OSHA, NFPA 70E, and utility safety standards.
- Collaborate directly with engineers, utilities, contractors, and field personnel.
- Travel regionally/nationally (50–75%) including overnight stays.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED and minimum 10 years of experience (12+ years for Tech II, 14+ years for Tech III, or 16+ years for Tech IV) in testing and commissioning substations.
- OR an Associate's degree and 8+ years (10+ years for Tech II, 12+ years for Tech III, or 14+ years for Tech IV) of experience in testing and commissioning.
- OR Military technical experience (Prime Power, Electrical, Instrumentation, or related) and 8+ years (10+ years for Tech II, 12+ years for Tech III, or 14+ years for Tech IV) of experience in testing and commissioning substations.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Ability to pass drug and background screenings.
- No travel restrictions.
- Strong mechanical/technical aptitude and safety-first mindset.
- NICET Level II (Power Testing) or higher.
- Ability to obtain a TWIC card.
Preferred Qualifications
- OSHA 10 or 30.
- OSHA Electrical Safety / NFPA 70E (or ability to obtain).
- Experience in energized substations under utility safety rules.
- Familiarity with SEL, GE, ABB, Siemens, Basler, and other relay manufacturers.
- Knowledge of NETA ATS/ASTM, IEEE, NERC PRC, and NESC standards.
- Strong drawing/schematic interpretation skills.
What Success Looks Like
- Strong documentation discipline and accurate test reporting.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings confidently.
- Effective communication with both field teams and customers.
- Continuous growth in technical skills and industry certifications.
- Reliability and professionalism while working in the field.
- Ability to work independently in energized substations.
Pay
Hourly rate: $30–$60 per hour, commensurate with experience level, education, and qualifications. Pay rate may change based on geo differential.
Semi-annual, performance-based profit-sharing bonus: 10% to 20% of salary.
Benefits
- Day-one medical, dental, and vision benefits.
- 401(k) with 4% match and immediate vesting.
- Starting PTO: 80 hours of vacation and 40 hours of sick time per year, plus 10 paid holidays.
- Flexible work schedule: every other Friday off.
- Career development: advancement opportunities and tuition reimbursement.
- Perks: gym membership stipend, wellness program, fertility benefits, and pet insurance.