Substation Technician

About the role

The position assists in substation design, protection and control systems, engineering documentation, and field support activities. Skilled in developing detailed engineering drawings, coordinating with multidisciplinary project teams, conducting field investigations, and supporting construction and commissioning efforts for transmission and distribution substation projects. Can manage multiple assignments independently while ensuring compliance with utility standards, safety requirements, and project schedules.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, review, and revise substation engineering drawings, including single-line diagrams, protection and control schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, and cable schedules.
• Perform detailed design and drafting for transmission and distribution substation projects in accordance with company standards, industry codes, and project requirements.
• Conduct field investigations, site surveys, and equipment verifications to support engineering design, system upgrades, and expansion projects.
• Develop and maintain accurate engineering documentation, as-built drawings, design packages, and technical records.
• Aid in the design and modification of protection and control systems, station service systems, grounding systems, and substation equipment layouts. Coordinate with engineering staff, construction personnel, contractors, and operations teams to resolve design issues and support project execution.
• Review project drawings and technical documents for accuracy, constructability, completeness, and compliance with applicable standards.
• Support procurement activities by preparing material takeoffs, equipment lists, and technical documentation for project specifications.
• Provide technical support during construction, testing, commissioning, and energization activities, including responding to field requests and resolving drawing discrepancies.
• Assist with troubleshooting and analysis of substation equipment, control circuits, and protection system issues.
• Monitor assigned project tasks and deliverables to ensure schedules, quality standards, and project objectives are achieved.
• Develop and execute a system coordination plan to ensure the system is reliable, resilient, and safe.
• Develop and execute a protection equipment testing plan to maintain reliability of critical assets.
• Develop and execute a substation transformer testing plan to maintain reliability of critical assets.
• Develop specifications for new substation transformers and substation protective devices.
• Direct the installation of mobile transformers inside the substation.
• Aid with disaster response planning and recovery.
• Provide substation expertise to other departments throughout the organization.
• Aids in system operation and engineering activities as required to maintain continuity of service to the system.
• Ensures all cooperative safety rules are followed as defined in the cooperative Safety Manual.
• Ensures all cooperative Service Rules and Regulations are followed.
• Interfaces with vendors to answer detailed specification questions and provide guidance as needed.
• Provides a resource for substation construction crews to solve problems through collaborative efforts.
• Works in collaboration with the Grid Intelligence Division Head to ensure all ADMS needs are covered inside the substation.
• Requires excellent computer skills for all communication and operational activities.

Qualifications

• An Associate Degree in Applied Science or two years college level courses in a technical field with three to four years' prior experience necessary.
• A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering preferred.
• Courses in electrical system coordination, power system operations and design, also computer systems operations and maintenance preferred.
• Maintains a knowledge of engineering practices related to power line design and construction and code requirements relating to utility operations.
• Ability to render sound judgment decisions relating to safety, mechanical conditions and recommendations for maintenance of all types of power line components and appurtenances.
• Possess' a knowledge of electricity and electrical safety.
• Ability to perform outdoors, in adverse weather conditions for extended period of time and ability to work for extended periods of time in confined areas.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a current NC Drivers License.
• Ability to think clearly and must possess sound judgment abilities.
• Ability to use tools and test equipment in rough terrain.
• Ability to write in a clear legible manner.
• Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions and to request clarification when needed.
• Ability to lift objects of various sizes and shapes weighing in excess of 25 pounds.
• Ability to walk long distances over rough terrain for distances exceeding two miles.