Powerhouse, substation, and relay: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more

Powerhouse, substation, and relay electrical and electronics repairers inspect, test, maintain, or repair electrical equipment used in generating stations, substations, and in-service relays. These workers also may be known as powerhouse electricians, relay technicians, or power transformer repairers.

Education Required
Electrical and electronics installers and repairers must understand electrical equipment and electronics. As a result, employers often prefer applicants who have taken courses in electronics at a community college or technical school. Courses usually cover AC and DC electronics, electronic devices, and microcontrollers. It is important for prospects to choose schools that include hands-on training in order to gain practical experience.
Training Required
In addition to technical education, workers usually receive training on specific types of equipment. This may involve manufacturer-specific training for repairers who will perform warranty work.
Job Outlook
The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 1% (Little or no change)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.)
Licenses/Certifications
While certification is not required, a number of organizations offer it, and it can be useful in getting a job. For example, the Electronics Technicians Association International (ETA International) offers more than 50 certification programs in numerous electronics specialties for various levels of competency. The International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET) also offers certification for several levels of competence. The ISCET focuses on a broad range of topics, including basic electronics, electronic systems, and appliance service. To become certified, applicants must meet prerequisites and pass a comprehensive exam.
Median pay: How much do Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers make?
$55,920 Annual Salary
$26.89 per hour

Careers for Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers

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  • Auto radio mechanics
  • Automotive electricians
  • Battery repairers
  • Bench technicians
  • Car alarm installers
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  • Commercial and industrial electrical and electronics equipment repairers
  • Commercial and industrial equipment electrical and electronics repairers
  • Dynamo repairers
  • Electric motor fitters
  • Electric motor repairers
  • Electric motor rewinders
  • Electric motor, power tool, and related repairers
  • Electrical and electronics installers and repairers of transportation equipment
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  • Electronic equipment installers and repairers
  • Electronic equipment installers and repairers of motor vehicles
  • Electronic technicians
  • Electronics repairers
  • Field technicians
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  • Generating station mechanics
  • Generator mechanics
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  • Marine electronics repairers
  • Marine electronics technicians
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  • Power transformer repairers
  • Powerhouse electricians
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  • Substation electricians
  • Substation mechanics
  • Television installers
  • Transformer repairers

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