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Substation Commissioning Technician I, II, III or IV - Western US

Ampirical · United States · 2 wk ago
RemoteRemoteEngineering$30/hrFull-time

Ampirical is shaping the future of the power grid with precision, innovation, and purpose. We focus on quality, forward-thinking solutions and empower our team to grow and thrive. This is a 100% travel role focused on specific states within the Western United States. Candidates must currently live in—or be willing to relocate to—the Western US.

About the Role

We are seeking a skilled Testing & Commissioning Technician(s) I, II, III, or IV to support acceptance testing, maintenance, and commissioning of high-voltage substation equipment. This role requires strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety while working in energized utility environments. You will work hands-on with breakers, transformers, protective relays, SCADA systems, and other high-voltage apparatus while traveling to project sites throughout the region.

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, 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, 14+ years for Tech IV) of experience 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, 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/hour (dependent on 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 at 80 hours of vacation and 40 hours of sick time per year, plus 10 paid holidays
  • Every other Friday off (flexible work schedule)
  • Career development: advancement opportunities, tuition reimbursement
  • Gym membership stipend, wellness program, fertility benefits, pet insurance, and more

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