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Substation Electrician III

Qcells EPC, Irvine, CA, United States


Summary
The Substation Electrician III assists in the construction, maintenance, and repair of electrical substation systems and equipment, operating heavy machinery such as backhoes, trenchers, excavators, skid steers, and bulldozers. The role is safety‑sensitive, requiring adherence to strict safety standards while working with energized systems and hazardous equipment. The position requires full‑time on‑site presence with 100% travel and an 18‑year age minimum. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States; no sponsorship available.

Essential Job Functions & Responsibilities

Safety Compliance and Program Participation

Observe, comply with, and promote the company’s safety program, rules, and corporate safety goals.

Participate in safety‑related processes, programs, and training.

Report all safety hazards, accidents, or near misses to the work team.

Installation and Maintenance

Assist with installation and maintenance of HV and LV equipment within substations (breakers, switches, bus, transformers, cap banks).

Improve skills in reading and interpreting schematic diagrams and construction drawings.

Machinery Operation and Site Preparation

Operate various types of heavy equipment, including backhoes, trenchers, excavators, skid steers, and bulldozers.

Assist in excavation, backfilling, 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.

Required Skills & Competencies

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.

Required Qualifications

Diploma/certificate from high school, GED, or line school.

Minimum 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.

Work Environment / Physical Demands

Heavy physical work, lifting up to 100 pounds occasionally and 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 required up to 95% of the time to different job sites.

Must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including hard hats, safety glasses, and fire‑retardant clothing.

Climatic / Environmental Conditions At Job Site

Predominantly outdoor climate.

Exposure to extreme hot or cold weather.

Potential exposure to excessive humidity, rain, noise from machinery, and chemical substances.

Work performed around hazardous equipment.

Examples Of Mobility Barriers To Job Site Access

Uneven ground level.

Obstructed pathways.

Work performed at low and/or high elevations.

Work performed in confined areas.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Hanwha Qcells is proud to be 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, or any other classification protected by applicable federal, state or local law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. Hanwha Qcells will provide reasonable accommodations to all qualified individuals with disabilities to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and/or receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us at hr-usa@qcells.com to request accommodations.

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