Senior Substation Commissioning Technician I

This role is a remote position with high travel (up to 75%) with specific needs in certain states, including Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Kentucky, Ohio, California, Virginia, and Indiana. There could be other needs in other states as we expand.

About Ampirical ----------------

At Ampirical, were shaping the future of the power grid with precision, innovation, and purpose. Just as the ampere is the foundation of electric current, Ampirical is a core force driving the energy sector forward. We focus on quality, forward-thinking solutions, and empowering our team to grow and thrive.

We don't just build projects-we build careers. If you're looking for a place where your contributions matter and your professional development is supported every step of the way, we'd love to meet you. Watch this video to get a glimpse into our culture.

Why Ampirical? -------------

• Hourly Rate: $40/Hour - $53/Hour - Commensurate (dependent on experience, education, and qualifications)
• Pay rate may change based on geo differential
• Profit-Sharing Bonus: Semi-annual, performance-based (10% to 20% of salary)
• Day-One Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision
• 401(k) with 4% match and immediate vesting
• PTO: Starting at 80 hours of vacation & 40 hours of sick time per year + 10 paid holidays
• Flexible Work Schedule: Every other Friday off
• Career Development: Advancement opportunities, tuition reimbursement
• Perks: Gym membership stipend, wellness program, fertility benefits, pet insurance, and more

Your Role: Senior Substation Commissioning Technician I ---------------------------------------------------

We are seeking a skilled Senior Testing & Commissioning Technician I to support acceptance testing, maintenance, and commissioning of high-voltage substation equipment. This role requires strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety while working in energized utility environments.

You will work hands-on with breakers, transformers, protective relays, SCADA systems, and other high-voltage apparatus while traveling to project sites throughout the region.

What You'll Do --------------

• Independently perform testing and commissioning on circuit breakers, power transformers, CTs/PTs, switches, bus systems, and protective relays.
• Conduct electrical tests including insulation resistance, contact resistance, power factor (Doble), TTR, winding resistance, timing/SFRA, and GPS-based end-to-end relay testing.
• Troubleshoot relay misoperations and equipment failures.
• Interpret and verify one-line diagrams, protection logic, wiring schematics, and as-built drawings.
• Operate industry-standard equipment such as Megger, Doble, Vanguard, Omicron, and related tools.
• Support SCADA/RTU I/O verification and automation testing.
• Maintain accurate test reports, relay settings documentation, and redline drawings.
• Ensure compliance with NETA, NERC PRC, OSHA, NFPA 70E, and utility safety standards.
• Collaborate directly with engineers, utilities, contractors, and field personnel.
• Travel regionally/nationally (50-75%) including overnight stays.

Minimum Requirements -------------------

• High school diploma or GED +10 years of experience in testing and commissioning substations
• OR an Associates degree in substation and relay technology or Electrical Technology/Power Systems +8 years of experience testing and commissioning
• OR an Associates degree and +8 years of experience testing and commissioning
• OR Military technical experience (Prime Power, Electrical, Instrumentation) +8 years of experience testing and commissioning substations
• Valid driver's license
• Ability to pass drug and background screenings
• No travel restrictions
• Strong mechanical/technical aptitude and safety-first mindset
• NICET Level II (Power Testing) or higher
• Ability to obtain a TWIC card
• Ability to work independently in energized substations
• Strong drawing/schematic interpretation skills

Preferred Qualifications ----------------------

• OSHA 10 or 30
• OSHA Electrical Safety / NFPA 70E (or ability to obtain)
• Experience in energized substations under utility safety rules
• Familiarity with SEL, GE, ABB, Siemens, Basler, and other relay manufacturers
• Knowledge of NETA ATS/ASTM, IEEE, NERC PRC, and NESC standards

What Success Looks Like -------------------------

• Strong documentation discipline and accurate test reporting
• Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings confidently
• Effective communication with both field teams and customers
• Continuous growth in technical skills and industry certifications
• Reliability and professionalism while working in the field

Ampirical is an Equal Opportunity Employer ------------------------------------------

Ampirical is an Equal Opportunity Employer, meaning we do not discriminate based on the following characteristics in our hiring and employment practices:

• Age
• Sex
• Color
• Race
• Creed
• National origin
• Religion or religious attire
• Marital status
• Pregnancy (child birth or related medical conditions)
• Citizenship status or amnesty
• Ancestry
• Sexual orientation
• Gender
• Gender identity
• Gender expression
• Transgender status
• Physical or mental disability
• Military or veteran status
• Genetic information
• Sickle-cell trait
• Status as a tobacco user or non-user
• Or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law.