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Apprentice System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The city of Marietta

Water System Operator 2026

Marietta, GA · On-site

$20.75 - $23.67/hr

Must have a high school diploma or GED and minimum experience of at least one year as an Apprentice System Operator or equivalent water and wastewater construction experience, to include skill in the ...

City of Fargo

Collection System Operator

Fargo, ND

$47K - $78K/yr

The Water Reclamation Apprentice Operator I, II, III, IV is responsible for the quality and ... Performs fiber repairs in the Ultrafiltration system of the Effluent Reuse Facility; Cleans and ...

RK Industries, LLC

Treatment System Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Description As a Water Treatment System Operator you'll help keep our water clean, safe, and ... RK University & RK Apprenticeship Program Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. RK ...

Sacramento County, CA

Water System Operator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$81K - $98K/yr

Under direction, Water System Operators perform work in connection with the operation, maintenance ... Or: 4. Completion of two-years of a stationary engineer, plumbing, or similar trade apprenticeship ...

Washington City

Water System Operator

Washington, UT · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

Performs a variety of entry, apprentice level semi-skilled duties related to the construction ... May receive close supervision from a Water Systems Operator IV, III or II while in training or on a ...

Washington City

Water System Operator

Washington, UT

$63K/yr

Performs a variety of entry, apprentice level semi-skilled duties related to the construction ... May receive close supervision from a Water Systems Operator IV, III or II while in training or on a ...

RK Industries, LLC

Treatment System Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

As a Water Treatment System Operator you'll help keep our water clean, safe, and flowing. In this ... RK University & RK Apprenticeship Program Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

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Apprentice System Operator information

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How much do apprentice system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice system operator in the United States is $20.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Apprentice System Operator?

An Apprentice System Operator is an entry-level position in the energy or utility sector, where individuals learn how to monitor, control, and maintain the operation of electrical power systems under the supervision of experienced system operators. Apprentices receive hands-on training and classroom instruction to understand grid operations, safety protocols, and emergency procedures. Their goal is to gain the knowledge and skills needed to ensure the reliable delivery of electricity and, eventually, qualify for a full System Operator role.

How does an Apprentice System Operator typically collaborate with senior operators and other departments during their training period?

As an Apprentice System Operator, you'll work closely with experienced system operators who provide guidance and on-the-job training. Collaboration often involves shadowing senior staff during shift operations, participating in real-time problem solving, and attending cross-departmental meetings to understand system reliability and communication protocols. You'll also interact with maintenance, engineering, and dispatch teams to learn how outages and grid issues are addressed. This hands-on, team-based environment helps you develop the technical and communication skills necessary for advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice System Operator, and why are they important?

To succeed as an Apprentice System Operator, you need a foundational understanding of electrical systems, strong analytical skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional vocational training preferred. Familiarity with SCADA systems, energy management software, and basic computer applications is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of power systems, minimizing downtime and maintaining service continuity.

What is the difference between Apprentice System Operator vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectApprentice System OperatorPower Plant Operator
Required CredentialsOn-the-job training, possibly a high school diploma or equivalentHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, often in control rooms or plant sitesOperational environment, monitoring equipment, controlling power generation processes
Employer & Industry UsageUtilities, power generation companies during training phasePower plants, energy companies, industrial facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles and training pathwaysJob responsibilities, qualifications, and career progression

The main difference is that an Apprentice System Operator is in training, gaining skills under supervision, while a Power Plant Operator is a fully qualified professional responsible for operating and maintaining power generation equipment. The apprenticeship prepares individuals for a career as a Power Plant Operator, with similar work environments and industry usage.

More about Apprentice System Operator jobs
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What are the most commonly searched types of System Operator jobs? The most popular types of System Operator jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Apprentice System Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice System Operator jobs are:
Apprentice System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice System Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $41,951 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

System Operator

Https://www.berkeleyelectric.coop/

Moncks Corner, SC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

BERKELEY ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC.

SYSTEM OPERATOR II

( WILL CONSIDER SYSTEM OPERATOR APPRENTICE , SYSTEM OPERATOR I OR II )


OBJECTIVES

  • A. To provide dispatch service and monitor and direct distribution system operations according to Cooperative policy. Monitors and directs the day-to-day operations of the Cooperative distribution system in a seven-day a week, twenty-four hour per day capacity. Provides support and direction to line crews for outage restoration and daily operations.
  • B. Ensure safe, reliable, efficient operations of the electric power system, and taking required action as necessary to assure public safety, quickly restore power, or prevent damage.
  • C. Interact with operations, support, and engineering, to ensure accuracy, stability, and enhancement of SCADA and supporting Information Technology (IT) systems, as well as the electric infrastructure. D. Maintain complete, accurate, and detailed historical information, in the form of logs, lists, and other documentation as required by management, and state and federal regulating agencies.
  • E. Execute switching orders, clearances, and reclose blocking of equipment to ensure safety of personnel and equipment.
  • F. Provide responsive member service to a high level of satisfaction.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

A. Reports to: Operations Center Manager

B. Supervises: None

C. Advises: System Operator I and Apprentice

POSITION SPECIFICATIONS

EDUCATION:

High School Diploma or equivalency is required. Completion of the Cooperative's System Operator Apprentice and I Training Modules, or equivalent training, is required. Completion of the Cooperative's System Operator II Training Module is required to become proficient.

EXPERIENCE:

Three (3) years' experience as a System Operator Apprentice and I, or equivalent is required. Directly related experience in customer service, dispatching, service planning, distribution design and/or line work, preferably at a Cooperative, may be substituted for some of this experience. Requires two (2) years in position to become proficient in job.

JOB KNOWLEDGE:

Must have an effective knowledge of the operation of an electrical distribution system and understand the flow of energy, switching, watts, voltages, and currents. Must be familiar with the various voltage regulation and protective devices used on the system. Must have an effective knowledge of Rural Utilities Service (RUS) construction specifications, the National Electric Safety Code (NESC), OSHA regulations, and local and state codes. Must know the Cooperative system service territory and the areas served by various substations and circuits. Must know how to operate the SCADA, OMS, AMI, billing, call-out, mapping, radio, phone and other systems used by a System Operator.

ABILITIES & SKILLS:

Must be able to operate efficiently under stressful circumstances during power outages and emergency situations that may occur involving the electrical distribution system. Must have ability to read and follow maps. Must have and keep a valid South Carolina driver's license. Must have ability to communicate with member/consumers and the public courteously and tactfully. Must have the ability to communicate clearly and concisely via phone, radio, email and text. Must be proficient in the use of computer and software systems. Must be able to multi-task and stay focused.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Normal office working environment for the most part. Some outside work may be required. Some overtime will be required. Subject to irregular hours during emergencies. Shift work is required to help ensure that the operations center is functioning, and an operator is ready to act, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Must be able to work alone and with others.


All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability status, veteran status, or other legally protected status.

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