Utility Substation Inspector - O & V

HB NEXT is a fast-growing, technology-enabled Compliance as a Service (CaaS) company supporting the construction, industrial, and utility industries. We are looking for an energetic and motivated individual to join our team as a Utility Substation Inspector - Operational & Visual in the Georgia Market. This is a great opportunity to join a fast paced, high growth company in a key role. 

The Utility Substation Operational & Visual (O/V) Inspector is responsible for performing consistent, systematic inspections of electrical substations and associated equipment throughout the State of Georgia. This role focuses on identifying observable deficiencies, abnormal conditions, and operational concerns that may impact system reliability, safety, or regulatory compliance.

The position supports compliance with utility customer standards, OSHA regulations, and the Georgia High Voltage Safety Act, while ensuring accurate documentation and professional communication of inspection findings.

Purpose of Operational & Visual Inspections

The O/V Inspection Program provides a structured and repeatable process to evaluate the condition of:

• Substation facilities

• Power transformers

• Circuit breakers

• Protective devices

• Buswork

• Control houses

• Ancillary and associated substation equipment

The objective is to proactively identify visible defects, unsafe conditions, equipment degradation, and operational issues before they result in outages, failures, or safety incidents.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine and scheduled Operational & Visual inspections of electrical substations

• Identify and document: Observable equipment deficiencies / Abnormal operating conditions / Safety hazards / Signs of wear, damage, overheating, oil leaks, corrosion, or contamination

• Verify equipment status, labeling, grounding, and required clearances

• Observe and report operational concerns related to breakers, transformers, and protection systems

• Comply with all applicable safety requirements, including: OSHA standards / Georgia High Voltage Safety Act / Utility-specific safety policies and procedures

• Accurately complete inspection reports, including: Written findings / Photographic documentation / Severity classification and recommended follow-up actions

• Communicate inspection findings clearly, professionally, and in a timely manner

• Maintain inspection schedules and meet established performance timelines

• Properly use required inspection tools and personal protective equipment (PPE)

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED (technical or trade education preferred)

• Minimum 3 years of experience in one or more of the following: Electrical substations / Utility transmission or distribution systems / Power equipment inspection or maintenance

• Working knowledge of substation equipment, layouts, and safety practices

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience performing Operational & Visual substation inspections

• OSHA 10-hour or 30-hour certification

• NERC, NCCER, or equivalent utility-related certifications

• Experience working around high-voltage systems (69kV and above)

• Georgia ITS Qualified Operator

• Completion of the ITS Qualified Operator five-day training

Reporting Requirements

• Complete standardized inspection reports for each assigned facility

• Clearly document: Inspection date and location / Equipment inspected / Observed deficiencies and conditions / Recommended follow-up actions

• Submit reports within defined timelines

• Maintain accurate records in accordance with utility and client requirements

Performance Expectations

• Inspections are conducted consistently and systematically

• Findings are accurate, objective, and well-documented

• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and regulatory compliance

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

• Maintain professional conduct at all times while on utility property

Work Environment

• Outdoor and indoor substation environments

• Exposure to varying weather conditions

• Walking and standing for extended periods

• Proximity to energized high-voltage equipment

• No hands-on electrical work required

• Some Travel within the State of Georgia is required.

• A Company Vehicle is provided.

Compliance

All inspection activities must comply with:

• OSHA regulations

• Georgia High Voltage Safety Act

• Applicable utility and client policies and procedures