Substation Electrician III

Overview

Title:

Substation Electrician III

Department: T&D/C
•

Location:

Field-Based
• Supervisor:
Substation Foreman
• FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt
• Position Status:
Full-Time
• Work Status:
Field-based, Travel Required

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 turnkey solutions across the entire utility-scale project lifecycle. As part of the global Qcells brand, Qcells USA benefits from a legacy of photovoltaic manufacturing excellence.

The Substation Electrician III is responsible for assisting in the construction, maintenance, and repair of electrical substation systems and equipment. This role includes operating heavy equipment and working in locations where access is limited. It 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 key on-site tasks while maintaining safety 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. Working hours are project-driven and set in consultation with the employee s supervisor.

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.

• Safety Compliance and Program Participation
  • 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.
• Installation and Maintenance
  • Assist with the installation and maintenance of HV and LV equipment within substations. Examples:
    Breakers, Switches, Bus, Transformers, Cap Banks.
  • Improve skills in reading and interpreting schematic diagrams and construction drawings.
• Machinery Operation and Site Preparation
  • Operate heavy equipment including backhoes, trenchers, excavators, skid steers, and bulldozers.
  • Assist in excavation, back filling, and site preparation for substations.
  • Maintain company vehicles, equipment, and tools in good working order.
• Job Site Management and Communication
  • 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Heavy physical work, including lifting up to 100 pounds occasionally and up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Standing, walking, using tools, and climbing or balancing as part of 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 PPE including…