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Apprentice System Operator Jobs in South Carolina

Automation Systems Operator

Florence, SC

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Performs system software and updates per recommended client technical instruction Must possess ... 4 years apprenticeship or equivalent experience or training in the Robotics, Mechanical ...

Automation Systems Operator

Florence, SC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Work with the Partner Support team to proactively identify issues impacting Operations and system ... 4 years apprenticeship or equivalent experience or training in the Robotics, Mechanical ...

Paid apprenticeship & tutoring for the test * Paid vacation/holidays * Incentive-based pay bonuses ... system within a specified geographical area. Only the independently owned and operated franchised ...

Electrical Apprentice

Summerville, SC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... systems, commercial electric installations, and other related systems as directed by Electrical ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating instructions, procedure ...

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Apprentice System Operator information

See South Carolina salary details

$12

$18

$27

How much do apprentice system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice system operator in South Carolina is $18.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $20.29 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of System Operator jobs in South Carolina?

The most popular types of System Operator jobs in South Carolina are:

What are popular job titles related to Apprentice System Operator jobs in South Carolina?

For Apprentice System Operator jobs in South Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Apprentice System Operator jobs in South Carolina look for?

The top searched job categories for Apprentice System Operator jobs in South Carolina are:

What cities in South Carolina are hiring for Apprentice System Operator jobs?

Cities in South Carolina with the most Apprentice System Operator job openings:

SYSTEM OPERATOR APPRENTICE, (CAREER LADDER POSITION)

Dorchester County

Saint George, SC • On-site

$38K - $42K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Dorchester County (South Carolina) rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

385th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description The purpose of the class is to construct, install, maintain and repair water and sewer lines, pump stations, and associated appurtenances within the County wastewater collection and water distribution system; and to perform other skilled and semi-skilled work as required. This class works under general supervision and is given general work requirements. CANDIDATE IS SELECTED AT THE LEVEL IF QUALIFIED.

QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO APPLIED UNDER - 02340 DO NOT NEED TO REAPPLY TO RECEIVE CONSIDERATION. Duties ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Constructs, installs, maintains, troubleshoots, and repairs water and sewer service lines, mains and associated appurtenances; completes water and sewer taps and service connections. Plugs, unplugs and washes sewer lines as needed.

Locates and marks sewer lines and taps. Connects/disconnects/reconnects water and sewer services. Performs preventive maintenance on water distribution system including, but not limited to, exercising water valves, disinfecting new lines and flushing fire hydrants.

Installs and repairs pipes, conduits, meters, hydrants and fittings. Assists in making various sized taps and types of joints; assists in repairing all types of broken mains, valves, meters, lines and hydrants. Maneuvers and sets manhole rings and covers.

Reads, removes, sets or shuts off meters; replaces and repairs defective or leaking water meters; installs, tests and calibrates water meters; repairs meter boxes; and reads/re-reads water meters on assigned route. Performs cement work. Performs general landscaping work as required to repair worksites.

Attends meetings, trainings, etc., as appropriate, to enhance job knowledge skills. May operate a variety of light and heavy automotive, construction or specialized equipment as required to complete assigned tasks including a back hoe, tractor, dump truck line truck, tapping machine, boring equipment, packer, air hammer, etc.; inspects equipment for proper and safe working condition; cleans and maintains assigned vehicles and equipment; and stocks trucks. Responds to the public inquires and investigates complaints associated with wastewater collection and water distribution systems

Works on emergency repairs and services unsupervised. Performs routine tasks with hand tools (shovels, rakes, wrenches, trowels, etc.). Performs other related job duties as assigned

Qualifications SYSTEM OPERATOR APPRENTICE: Education and Experience: High school diploma or GED. Six (6) months of construction work experience preferred. Special Qualifications: Must possess a valid state driver's license.

SYSTEM OPERATOR D: Education and Experience: High school diploma or GED. Requires at least two (2) years of general maintenance and construction work experience; experience in a utility environment preferred. Special Qualifications: Must possess a valid South Carolina driver's license.

Must possess a D" level water distribution or a "D" sewer collection license. Proficient operation of heavy equipment including the skid steer, excavator and backhoe desired. SYSTEM OPERATOR C: Education and Experience: Requires high school diploma, GED equivalent or specialized vocational training.

Requires two years (2) years of general maintenance and construction work experience; experience in a utility environment preferred. Special Qualifications: Valid Driver's License. Must possess a "C" level water distribution or "C" sewer collection license.

Proficient operation of heavy equipment to include the skid steer, excavator desired. SYSTEM OPERATOR B: Education and Experience: High school diploma or GED. Requires at least three (3) years of general maintenance and construction work experience; experience in a utility environment preferred.

Special Qualifications: Must possess a "B" level water distribution or a "B" sewer collection license. Must be proficient in operation of heavy equipment including the skid steer, excavator and backhoe. SYSTEM OPERATOR A: Education and Experience: High school diploma or GED.

Requires at least four (4) years of general maintenance and construction work experience; experience in a utility environment preferred. Special Qualifications: Must possess a valid South Carolina driver's license with a Class A or equivalent endorsement. Must possess an "A" level water distribution or an "A" sewer collection license.

Must be proficient in operation of heavy equipment including the skid steer, excavator and backhoe. Additional Requirements WORK ENVIRONMENT Work is performed in a safe and secure work environment that may periodically have unpredicted requirements or demands. Dorchester County has the right to revise this job description at any time.

This description does not represent in any way a contract of employment. Position Type and Expected Hours of Work This is a full-time position; typical work 40 hours per week Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m

Some flexibility in hours is allowed, but employees must be available during the "core" work hours of 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. and must work 40 hour each week to maintain full-time status

Subject to 24-hour on-call status as assigned; may be required to work holidays and weekends during emergencies. This is a safety sensitive position and employees holding this position have the responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others. This position is subject to random drug testing.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER


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