Electrical Power Systems Technicians
Overview
Electrical Power Systems Technicians keep the lights on by maintaining and repairing the complex electrical equipment that generates and distributes power to homes and businesses. They use advanced testing tools like digital multimeters and computer diagnostic systems to troubleshoot problems, perform safety inspections, and ensure power grids operate reliably. This hands-on career combines electrical engineering knowledge with problem-solving skills, often involving teamwork with engineers and other technicians in both indoor facilities and outdoor substations. Many technicians start with an associate degree in electrical technology or complete apprenticeship programs that provide both classroom learning and real-world experience.
Did you know?
This occupation requires strict adherence to OSHA safety standards and electrical codes due to the high-voltage, life-threatening nature of powerhouse and substation work.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$102,548.75 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast Growing
Top Skill
Monitoring
Key Responsibilities
- Analyze test data to diagnose malfunctions, to determine performance characteristics of systems, or to evaluate effects of system modifications.
- Consult manuals, schematics, wiring diagrams, and engineering personnel to troubleshoot and solve equipment problems and to determine optimum equipment functioning.
- Inspect and test equipment and circuits to identify malfunctions or defects, using wiring diagrams and testing devices such as ohmmeters, voltmeters, or ammeters.
- Maintain inventories of spare parts for all equipment, requisitioning parts as necessary.
- Schedule and supervise splicing or termination of cables in color-code order.
- Schedule and supervise the construction and testing of special devices and the implementation of unique monitoring or control systems.
- Test insulators and bushings of equipment by inducing voltage across insulation, testing current, and calculating insulation loss.
- Repair, replace, and clean equipment and components such as circuit breakers, brushes, and commutators.
- Notify facility personnel of equipment shutdowns.
- Open and close switches to isolate defective relays, performing adjustments or repairs.
- Disconnect voltage regulators, bolts, and screws, and connect replacement regulators to high-voltage lines.
- Run signal quality and connectivity tests for individual cables, and record results.
- Test oil in circuit breakers and transformers for dielectric strength, refilling oil periodically.
- Construct, test, maintain, and repair substation relay and control systems.
- Prepare and maintain records detailing tests, repairs, and maintenance.
Career Considerations
Safety and Regulatory Compliance
This occupation requires strict adherence to OSHA safety standards and electrical codes due to the high-voltage, life-threatening nature of powerhouse and substation work.
Specialized Technical Training
Workers typically need completion of electrical technology programs, apprenticeships, or military training, as the complex equipment requires advanced technical knowledge.
Job Security and Growth Outlook
The field offers strong job security due to the critical nature of electrical infrastructure maintenance and the ongoing need to upgrade aging power grid systems across America.