High-Voltage Offshore Electrician

High-Voltage Offshore Electrician

High-Voltage Offshore Electrician – Job Description

Position Summary

A High-Voltage Offshore Electrician is responsible for the installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of high-voltage (HV) electrical systems on offshore platforms, wind farms, vessels, and substations. This role ensures the safe and reliable distribution of power in harsh marine environments while adhering to strict industry safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

Installation & Commissioning

• Install, test, and commission high-voltage equipment (typically 11kV–66kV+, depending on site).
• Connect and terminate HV cables, switchgear, transformers, and protection systems.
• Interpret electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, and technical documentation.

Maintenance & Inspection

• Conduct routine and preventive maintenance on HV switchgear, transformers, protection relays, power distribution panels, UPS systems, and generators.
• Perform troubleshooting and diagnostics on electrical faults using testing instruments (VLF testers, insulation resistance testers, mega testing of cables, multimeters, etc.).
• Theoretical knowledge with three phase system
• Exposure to generator and alternator troubleshooting
• Inspect and report defects, wear, and hazards related to HV equipment.

Safety & Compliance

• Work in compliance with offshore safety regulations (GWO, OSHA, IEC, ISO).
• Follow permit-to-work (PTW), lockout/tagout (LOTO), and electrical isolation procedures.
• Participate in emergency response drills and safety briefings.

Operations & Support

• Support HV switching operations and energization procedures under an authorized person (AP) or senior engineer.
• Maintain detailed logs, test reports, and maintenance records.
• Assist other technicians with LV systems where required.

Required Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of high-voltage electrical theory and safe working practices.
• Competent in cable testing, HV switching, and electrical diagnostics.
• Ability to work in adverse offshore conditions and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
• Proficiency with electrical tools, testing equipment, and diagnostic software.

Qualifications & Certifications

(varies by region/operator)

• Recognized electrician or electrical engineering qualification (NVQ, diploma, apprenticeship).
• HV authorization or certification (HV switching, cable jointing/terminations).
• Offshore certificates such as:
• GWO (Working at Heights, Sea Survival, First Aid, Fire Awareness)
• BOSIET/FOET (Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training)
• UKOOR
• HUET (Helicopter Underwater Escape Training)
• Electrical safety training (LOTO, Arc Flash awareness).

Work Environment

• Offshore wind platforms, oil & gas platforms, rigs, vessels, or floating substations.
• Shift-based or rotational schedules (e.g., 2 weeks on / 2 weeks off).
• Long hours in remote conditions, exposure to wind, saltwater, and heavy equipment.

Typical Job Titles

• Offshore High-Voltage Electrician
• HV Technician (Offshore)
• Wind Turbine High-Voltage Technician
• Offshore Electrical Maintenance Technician
• Substation Technician (Offshore)