Substation Electrician III

Hanwha Qcells USA Corp (Qcells USA), headquartered in Irvine, CA, specializes in providing utility-scale modules, solar photovoltaic (PV), and battery energy storage systems (BESS) project development, along with Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) services for solar and BESS projects nationwide. Qcells USA delivers comprehensive turnkey solutions encompassing the entire utility-scale project lifecycle. By choosing Qcells USA for turnkey solutions, customers can reduce uncertainty and risk, leading to enhanced investment returns and contributing to a more sustainable future.

About the role

The Substation Electrician III is responsible for assisting in the construction, maintenance, and repair of electrical substation systems and equipment. This position includes operating a variety of heavy equipment such as backhoes, trenchers, excavators, skid steers, bulldozers, and other equipment while adhering to safety standards. The Electrician III will also handle and install products in ditches, including direct bury wire, steel pipes, and other materials in locations where equipment cannot access. The role is designated as safety-sensitive, requiring a high degree of focus and safety compliance when working with energized systems and hazardous equipment. You will work closely with the Substation Foreman and assist with several key tasks on-site while maintaining safety standards and effective communication within the team. This position involves frequent physical activity and requires full-time on-site presence and 100% travel. Any remote work arrangements must receive prior approval from your direct supervisor or company leadership.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.

Responsibilities

• Observe, comply with, and promote the company’s safety program, rules, requirements, and corporate safety goals.
• Participate in safety-related processes, programs, and training.
• Engage with the work team to ensure zero injuries and report all safety hazards, accidents, or near misses.
• Assist with the installation and maintenance of HV and LV equipment within substations, including:
  • Breakers
  • Switches
  • Bus
  • Transformers
  • Cap Banks
• Improve skills of reading and interpreting schematic diagrams and construction drawings.
• Operate various types of heavy equipment, including backhoes, trenchers, excavators, skid steers, and bulldozers.
• Assist in excavation, backfilling, and site preparation for substations.
• Maintain company vehicles, equipment, and tools in good working order.
• Maintain cleanliness of the job site and equipment.
• Report deficiencies or issues to supervisory staff promptly.
• Work effectively with other crew members to ensure smooth operations on-site.
• Follow all safety procedures when working around energized equipment.

Requirements

• Diploma/certificate from High School, GED, or Line School.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• 7 years of recent electrician experience as a Substation helper or equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain a Class A CDL.
• Preferred experience in electrical substations or related field.
• Safety certifications (e.g., flagger training, OSHA certifications) are a plus.

Skills

• Ability to operate various types of heavy equipment (backhoe, trencher, excavator, bulldozer, skid steer).
• Familiarity with substation equipment and materials.
• Strong understanding of safety procedures, particularly around energized high voltage systems.
• Ability to work in confined spaces and around hazardous equipment.
• Basic ability to read blueprints or willingness to learn.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• This role involves heavy physical work, including lifting up to 100 pounds occasionally and up to 50 pounds regularly.
• The job requires standing, walking, using tools, and climbing or balancing as part of the daily tasks.
• Work performed outdoors with exposure to varying weather conditions.
• Travel is required up to 95% of the time to different job sites.
• Must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including hard hats, safety glasses, and fire-retardant clothing.
• Predominately outdoor climate with exposure to extreme hot or cold weather, excessive humidity, rain, etc.
• Various noise levels caused by tools, machinery, equipment, etc.
• Potential exposure to chemical substances and hazardous equipment.
• Work performed on uneven ground, obstructed pathways, at low and/or high elevations, and in confined areas.

Pay

The salary range for this position in Irvine, CA is required by the California Pay Transparency Act and may differ depending on the location of candidates hired nationwide. Actual compensation is influenced by factors including internal pay equity, skill set, education, licenses and certifications, geographic location, essential job duties and requirements, and necessary experience relative to the job’s minimum qualifications. An additional discretionary bonus structure or incentives may be offered as part of the overall compensation package.