Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay
Inspect, test, repair, or maintain electrical equipment in generating stations, substations, and in-service relays.
Common Job Titles
- Relay Technician
- Substation Electrician
- Substation Technician
- Wireman
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onPerform electrical equipment repairs on powerhouse, substation, and relay systems using digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, and relay test sets in high-voltage environments.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze electrical system malfunctions and equipment failures by troubleshooting complex circuits and applying knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and engineering principles.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate equipment performance data and quality control metrics to determine compliance with electrical safety standards and operational specifications.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate specialized diagnostic and testing equipment including insulation resistance testers, thermal imagers, and phase rotation indicators during maintenance procedures.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply mathematics and physics principles to electrical system calculations when estimating power loads, voltage drops, and equipment specifications.Proficient
- Hands-onCoordinate preventive maintenance schedules and equipment control processes by monitoring processes and controlling machines in substations and powerhouses.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret technical schematics, blueprints, and SCADA system data using AutoCAD and supervisory control software to diagnose system issues.Proficient
- MindsetPrioritize safety protocols and public protection measures when working with high-voltage equipment in electrical generation and distribution environments.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess repair versus replacement decisions for electrical components by evaluating equipment condition, cost factors, and operational requirements independently.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate continuing education requirements and emerging electrical technologies to update technical knowledge of computers, electronics, and telecommunications systems.Proficient
- Hands-onExecute inspection and testing protocols for electrical equipment in generating stations and substations following public safety and regulatory standards.Developing
- MindsetEngage in collaborative problem-solving with supervisors, peers, and interdisciplinary teams when coordinating work activities and communicating technical information about equipment status.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
23,040
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $60,820. 25th percentile: U.S. $79,930. 50th percentile: U.S. $100,940. 75th percentile: U.S. $114,740. 90th percentile: U.S. $127,970. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $60,820 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $127,970 |
| Workers on average earn | $97,460 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Mechanical4.3/5
- Mathematics3.9/5
- Engineering and Technology3.9/5
- Public Safety and Security3.9/5
- English Language3.8/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- Fluke Corporation FlukeView Forms
- Megger PowerDB
- OMICRON Test Universe
- Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
- Web browser software
Tools & Equipment
- Adjustable hand wrenches
- Adjustable pin spanner wrenches
- Alternating current AC electric welders
- Analog ohmmeters
- Bearing pullers
- Bench ammeters
- Bench drills
- Bench vises