Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay

Inspect, test, repair, or maintain electrical equipment in generating stations, substations, and in-service relays.

SOC: 49-2095.00

Common Job Titles

Relay TechnicianSubstation ElectricianSubstation TechnicianWireman

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key 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.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze electrical system malfunctions and equipment failures by troubleshooting complex circuits and applying knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and engineering principles.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate equipment performance data and quality control metrics to determine compliance with electrical safety standards and operational specifications.
  • Hands-onOperate specialized diagnostic and testing equipment including insulation resistance testers, thermal imagers, and phase rotation indicators during maintenance procedures.
  • KnowledgeApply mathematics and physics principles to electrical system calculations when estimating power loads, voltage drops, and equipment specifications.
  • Hands-onCoordinate preventive maintenance schedules and equipment control processes by monitoring processes and controlling machines in substations and powerhouses.
  • KnowledgeInterpret technical schematics, blueprints, and SCADA system data using AutoCAD and supervisory control software to diagnose system issues.
  • MindsetPrioritize safety protocols and public protection measures when working with high-voltage equipment in electrical generation and distribution environments.
  • KnowledgeAssess repair versus replacement decisions for electrical components by evaluating equipment condition, cost factors, and operational requirements independently.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate continuing education requirements and emerging electrical technologies to update technical knowledge of computers, electronics, and telecommunications systems.
  • Hands-onExecute inspection and testing protocols for electrical equipment in generating stations and substations following public safety and regulatory standards.
  • MindsetEngage in collaborative problem-solving with supervisors, peers, and interdisciplinary teams when coordinating work activities and communicating technical information about equipment status.
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

MetricU.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 AutoCADMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoft Word

Technology Skills

Fluke Corporation FlukeView FormsMegger PowerDBOMICRON Test UniverseSupervisory control and data acquisition SCADA softwareWeb browser software

Tools & Equipment

Adjustable hand wrenchesAdjustable pin spanner wrenchesAlternating current AC electric weldersAnalog ohmmetersBearing pullersBench ammetersBench drillsBench vises