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How Much Do Substation Operator Make?

How much do substation operator make? Discover the average salary, base salary, and compensation for substation operator in the logistics & supply chain category. Learn about substation operator pay per hour, per week, per month, and per annum with detailed salary ranges from $60,000 to $80,000.

Base Salary (avg)
$85,000
Per Hour
$41/hr
Avg Bonus
$5,000
Job Outlook
10.53%
Experience
5 yrs

How Much Do Substation Operator Make? Complete Salary Guide

How much do substation operator make? This is one of the most common questions in career planning. Substation Operator in the Logistics & Supply Chain field can expect to earn an average salary of $85,000 per year, with entry-level positions starting at $60,000 and experienced professionals earning up to $80,000 annually.

When breaking down the average salary of substation operator by time periods, substation operator typically make around $7,083.333 per month and approximately $1,634.615 per week. The basic salary of substation operator varies significantly based on experience level, location, and industry specialization. Entry-level substation operator typically start with a base salary of $60,000, while mid-career professionals earn an average of $85,000, and senior-level roles can command salaries exceeding $80,000.

The salary landscape for substation operator is influenced by several key factors including geographic location, years of experience, educational background, and specific industry demands. How much do substation operator make in a week? On average, this translates to approximately $1,634.615 per week. How much do substation operator make per annum? The annual salary range spans from $50,000 to $90,000, with the median salary sitting at $85,000. Additionally, many substation operator receive bonuses averaging $5,000 annually, representing approximately 10.25% of their base salary.

How Much Do Substation Operator Get Paid Per Annum? Substation Operator Salary

Annual salary data for substation operator across different experience levels, showing entry-level, mid-career, and experienced professional compensation ranges based on industry standards.

Entry Level Annual Salary

$60,000
Range: $50,000 - $50,000

Mid-Career Annual Salary

$85,000
Range: $70,000 - $85,000

Experienced Annual Salary

$80,000
Range: $70,000 - $90,000

How Much Do Substation Operator Get Paid in a Month? Substation Operator Monthly Salary

Monthly salary breakdowns for substation operator at different career stages, providing practical budgeting insights and compensation expectations for financial planning.

Entry Level Monthly Salary

$5,000
per month

Mid-Career Monthly Salary

$7,083
per month

Experienced Monthly Salary

$6,667
per month

How Much Do Substation Operator Get Paid in Different Locations?

Geographic salary variations for substation operator across different cities and regions, including cost of living adjustments and regional market demand factors that impact compensation.

Austin
$80,000
Range: $55,000 - $110,000
Remote
$75,000
Range: $50,000 - $100,000
Seattle
$85,000
Range: $65,000 - $115,000
New York
$90,000
Range: $60,000 - $120,000
San Francisco
$95,000
Range: $70,000 - $130,000

Substation Operator Salary Trends

Historical salary progression for substation operator over the past years, showing year-over-year compensation growth and market trends in the industry.

Substation Operator Salary Trends (2020 - 2025)

Bonus & Compensation Package

Additional compensation beyond base salary, including bonuses, commissions, and overtime opportunities that contribute to total annual earnings.

Bonus Percentage

10.25%

of annual salary

Bonuses for Substation Operators are typically awarded based on performance metrics, safety records, and operational efficiency achievements throughout the year.

Average Bonus

$5,000

annually

Commission

Substation Operator roles generally do not offer commission or incentive opportunities, as compensation is primarily based on salary and benefits rather than performance-based incentives.

Overtime

Overtime pay is common for Substation Operators, as they often work beyond standard hours to ensure electrical systems operate efficiently and safely.

Employee Benefits Package

Comprehensive benefits and perks provided to employees, including health coverage, retirement plans, time off policies, and professional development opportunities.

Comprehensive Benefits

Typical benefits for a Substation Operator include health insurance, retirement plans like 401(k), paid time off (PTO), life insurance, disability coverage, and opportunities for professional development.

Health Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plans
Development

Substation Operator Job Overview

Comprehensive details about the substation operator role including daily responsibilities, work environment, physical demands, and key tasks that define this career path.

About This Role

A Substation Operator manages and maintains electrical substations, ensuring the safe and efficient distribution of electricity. They monitor equipment, perform routine inspections, troubleshoot issues, and coordinate with other utility personnel. Their role is critical in maintaining grid stability and preventing outages, contributing to reliable energy delivery for consumers.

Primary Responsibilities

Monitoring and controlling electrical equipment, Conducting routine inspections, Performing maintenance and repairs, Ensuring safety protocols are followed, Responding to alarms and emergencies, Documenting operational data, Collaborating with engineering teams, Managing system outages, Operating control systems, Training new personnel.

Day-to-Day Tasks

A Substation Operator monitors equipment, conducts inspections, manages power distribution, performs routine maintenance, responds to alarms, ensures safety protocols are followed, and collaborates with team members for efficient operations.

Work Environment

Field

Substation Operators work in control rooms or outdoors, ensuring electrical systems operate safely, often in high-pressure, noisy environments.

Physical Demands

Moderate

Substation Operators must handle heavy equipment, work in confined spaces, and endure extreme weather conditions. They require physical stamina, dexterity, and adherence to safety protocols.

Substation Operator Requirements & Prerequisites

Essential qualifications and credentials needed to pursue a career as a substation operator, including educational background, certifications, and experience requirements.

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent.

Field: Electrical Engineering, Power Systems Technology, Electrical Maintenance, Renewable Energy Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Technology, Utility Management.

Experience

5 years

Employers seek candidates with relevant technical experience, strong problem-solving skills, safety awareness, knowledge of electrical systems, and the ability to work under pressure in a team-oriented environment.

Certifications

High School Diploma or GED, Electrical Technician Certification, National Electric Code (NEC) Certification, OSHA Safety Training Certification, First Aid and CPR Certification, Certified Electrician License, Power Plant Operator License, NERC Certification (North American Electric Reliability Corporation), Forklift Operator License.

Required Skills

Electrical systems knowledge, troubleshooting skills, safety awareness, communication skills, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, technical proficiency, teamwork.

Technical Skills

Electrical Systems KnowledgeSafety ProtocolsTechnical TroubleshootingSCADA Systems OperationPreventive MaintenanceRegulatory ComplianceEquipment TestingCommunication Skills

Soft Skills

CommunicationProblem-SolvingTeamworkAttention to DetailAdaptabilityTime Management

Substation Operator Career Path

Professional progression opportunities for substation operator from entry-level to senior management, including typical career advancement timeline and role evolution.

Entry Level

Positions:

Electrical Technician, Utility Worker, Power Plant Operator.

Early-career Substation Operators monitor and control electrical systems, ensure equipment functionality, perform maintenance tasks, troubleshoot issues, and maintain safety protocols to support reliable power distribution.

Mid-Career

Positions:

Electrical Technician, Power Systems Technician, Lineworker

Mid-career Substation Operators manage equipment, ensure safety protocols, perform maintenance, monitor systems for efficiency, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate with teams to maintain power reliability.

Senior Management

Positions:

Substation Manager, Senior Electrical Engineer, Operations Supervisor

Senior Substation Operators oversee operations, maintenance, and safety of electrical substations, ensuring reliable power distribution, managing teams, and implementing compliance with industry regulations.

Career Progression Timeline

Timeline: 5 years

Substation Operators typically advance from entry-level positions to roles such as Senior Operator or Supervisor, gaining expertise in electrical systems and management responsibilities over time. Continuous training enhances career opportunities in the energy sector.

Substation Operator Industry & Growth

Market outlook and growth prospects for substation operator, including industry trends, job market demand, and factors influencing career opportunities and advancement.

Job Outlook

10.53% Growth

Stable

Projected: 2024–2034

Industry Trends

Increased demand for renewable energy integration, advancements in smart grid technology, emphasis on cybersecurity and infrastructure resilience.

Growth Factors

Growing energy demand, renewable energy integration, aging workforce, technological advancements, infrastructure upgrades, and increased focus on grid reliability drive the rising need for Substation Operators.

Future Opportunities

Renewable energy integration, smart grid technology, battery storage systems, automation and AI in operations, cybersecurity for energy infrastructure, and electric vehicle charging networks.

Substation Operator Related Professions

Alternative career paths and similar roles for substation operator, including career transitions, related positions, and advancement opportunities within the field.

Similar Roles

Electrical TechnicianPower Plant OperatorTransmission Line WorkerSafety Inspector

Career Alternatives

Electrical TechnicianPower Systems EngineerField Service RepresentativeEnergy Consultant

Upgrade Paths

Senior Substation OperatorSubstation SupervisorOperations Manager

Related Entry Roles

TechnicianOperatorElectrician

Substation Operator Skills & Development

Essential skills and professional development resources for substation operator, including technical abilities, soft skills, recommended courses, and ongoing learning opportunities.

Technical Skills

Electrical SafetySCADA SystemsPower DistributionTroubleshootingPreventive MaintenanceCircuit AnalysisLoad Flow AnalysisEquipment Operation

Soft Skills Needed

CommunicationProblem-SolvingTeamworkAttention to DetailAdaptability

Recommended Certifications

NERC CertificationElectrical Safety Compliance CertificateSubstation Operations Training Certificate

Recommended Courses

Electrical Substation DesignSubstation Operations and Maintenance

Development Resources

LinkedIn LearningCourseraUdemyNational Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA)

Training Timeline

6-12months

Estimated training time

Frequently Asked Questions About Substation Operator Salary

Common questions and answers about pursuing a career as a substation operator, covering qualifications, salary expectations, career prospects, and practical career guidance.

What qualifications are needed to become a substation operator?

Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or an associate degree in electrical technology is required.

What is the average salary of a substation operator?

The average salary ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience and location.

What skills are essential for a substation operator?

Key skills include technical knowledge of electrical systems, problem-solving abilities, and strong attention to safety protocols.

Is prior experience necessary to become a substation operator?

While prior experience in electrical work is beneficial, many employers offer on-the-job training for entry-level positions.

What career advancement opportunities exist for substation operators?

Operators can advance to supervisory roles or specialize in areas such as maintenance management or system planning.

How Much Others Make?

Explore salary data for other professions to compare compensation across different career paths and industries.

Important Disclaimer

Salary information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. Actual salaries may vary based on location, experience, education, industry, company size, and other factors. We strive to provide accurate data, but cannot guarantee the completeness or accuracy of all information. Please verify with official sources before making career decisions.