Substation Foreman

Substation Foreman

Title:

Substation Foreman – Department: T&D/C –

Location:

Ankeny, IA – Supervisor:
Substation Superintendent – FLSA Status:
Not Exempt – Position Status:
Permanent, Full‑Time – Work Status:
Project Site

Job Overview

The Substation Foreman is responsible for the installation, testing, repair, and maintenance of high voltage substation components, including wiring, equipment, control systems, and relays. This role requires working with energized lines, structures, and equipment within and around electrical substations while strictly adhering to safety standards, codes, and regulations.

In this position you will perform complex tasks in a team environment, often in varied outdoor conditions, with significant travel required (up to 95%). The Foreman works hands‑on and leads the crew, overseeing installation and maintenance of high voltage equipment, reading schematic diagrams, operating heavy equipment, preparing sites, and mentoring junior team members.

• Safety Compliance and Program Participation
  • Ensure compliance with OSHA and company safety policies.
  • Participate in safety meetings, toolbox talks, and pre‑job briefings.
  • Conduct safety audits and hazard assessments on job sites.
• Field Operations & Supervision
  • Supervise construction efforts to meet design, budget, and schedule.
  • Provide hands‑on leadership on field operations, ensuring safety and efficiency.
  • Troubleshoot complex field issues and provide on‑the‑spot solutions.
• Installation and Maintenance
  • Perform installation and maintenance of high‑ and low‑voltage equipment within substations.
  • Examples:
    Breakers, Switches, Bus, Transformers, Cap Banks.
• Machinery Operation and Site Preparation
  • Operate Lifts, skid steers, Ditch Witch machines, excavators, and lifts.
  • Assist with site staging, material handling, and excavation.
  • Oversee mobilization/demobilization of equipment at job sites.
• Team Leadership and Mentorship
  • Provide on‑the‑job training to helpers, laborers, and apprentice substation technicians.
  • Lead by example, fostering teamwork, safety, and quality.
  • Conduct performance reviews and provide feedback.
• Job Site Management and Communication
  • Maintain communication with the Substation Superintendent, project managers, and other team members regarding status, safety, and progress.
  • Document work via daily logs, work orders, and incident reports.
  • Coordinate with subcontractors, suppliers, and other departments.

• In‑depth knowledge of high‑voltage electrical systems and substation equipment.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics, and technical documents.
• Physical ability to lift heavy objects, climb, and work in challenging environments.
• Excellent troubleshooting skills for electrical issues.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

• 5+ years of construction experience with at least 1 year of leadership experience.
• Mandatory understanding of electrical terms used in substations.
• Valid Journeyman certification or equivalent electrical construction experience.
• Must possess all required tools for the role.
• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
• Valid driver’s license and Class A or B CDL, or ability to obtain one.
• OSHA‑approved certification preferred (e.g., NCCCO or CIC Certification for crane operations).

• Climb and maintain balance on ladders, scaffolding, stairways.
• Stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, or work at elevated heights and in confined spaces.
• Walk or move continuously while carrying 50 lbs of tools and/or materials; assistance recommended for >50 lbs.
• Stand or walk for long periods and work extended hours on uneven surfaces.
• Full range of motion and flexibility consistent with job requirements.
• Requires repetitive movement.

• Industrial construction sites and/or fabrication shop.
• Uneven ground level, obstructed pathways, low/high elevations, confined areas.
• Predominantly outdoor; exposure to extreme heat or cold, excessive humidity, rain, noise, chemical substances, and hazardous equipment.

Hanwha Qcells is an at‑will Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination against race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or perception, national origin, age, marital status, pregnancy, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status, and other protected classifications under applicable law. Policies apply to all employment terms and conditions. For accommodations, contact

Notes:
This description is not exhaustive; duties may change with or without notice.