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Apprentice System Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

CNC Machinist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

... apprenticeship or equivalent * Experience with 5-axis mills * Experience operating wire EDM ... Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality systems System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and ...

CNC Machinist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

... apprenticeship or equivalent * Experience with 5-axis mills * Experience operating wire EDM ... Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality systems System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and ...

CNC Machinist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

... apprenticeship or equivalent * Experience with 5-axis mills * Experience operating wire EDM ... Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality systems System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and ...

CNC Machinist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

... apprenticeship or equivalent * Experience with 5-axis mills * Experience operating wire EDM ... Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality systems System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and ...

CNC Machinist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

... apprenticeship or equivalent * Experience with 5-axis mills * Experience operating wire EDM ... Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality systems System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and ...

CNC Machinist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

... apprenticeship or equivalent * Experience with 5-axis mills * Experience operating wire EDM ... Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality systems System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and ...

CNC Machinist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

... apprenticeship or equivalent * Experience with 5-axis mills * Experience operating wire EDM ... Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality systems System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and ...

CNC Machinist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

... apprenticeship or equivalent * Experience with 5-axis mills * Experience operating wire EDM ... Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality systems System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and ...

Critical Environments Operator II

Sterling, VA

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Able to use hand tools, test equipment, and be knowledgeable of maintenance shop practices, with experience at the apprentice level for Electrical and Mechanical Equipment and systems * Able to ...

Able to use hand tools, test equipment, and be knowledgeable of maintenance shop practices, with experience at the apprentice level for Electrical and Mechanical Equipment and systems * Able to ...

Critical Environments Operator II

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Able to use hand tools, test equipment, and be knowledgeable of maintenance shop practices, with experience at the apprentice level for Electrical and Mechanical Equipment and systems * Able to ...

Critical Environments Operator II

Sterling, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Able to use hand tools, test equipment, and be knowledgeable of maintenance shop practices, with experience at the apprentice level for Electrical and Mechanical Equipment and systems * Able to ...

Showing results 41-60

Apprentice System Operator information

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 Washington?

The most popular types of System Operator jobs in Washington are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Apprentice System Operator jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Apprentice System Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Apprentice System Operator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Equipment Operator - Underground (Dominion)

Manassas, VA • On-site

$18.80 - $25.40/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Position Summary: The Underground Equipment Operator is an entry level position in the construction, maintenance and repair of electrical underground distribution systems.  This position works at various locations. The position may also be required to travel to another state depending on customer demands.

The compensation range for this position is between $18.80 - $25.40 per hour.

Essential Functions:

  • Work safely while performing new construction, maintenance or repair work of energized and de-energized underground.
  • Assists with installing underground transformers.
  • Assists in replacing fuses in transformers and clears faulted circuits and systems.
  • Frequently works around energized high voltage systems requiring skill and care to protect the lives of themselves and others.
  • Maintains company vehicles, equipment and tools in good working order.
  • Able to perform rigorous physical labor.
  • Understands proper use of company radio.
  • Understands operation of heavy equipment.
  • Understand basic rigging.
  • Understand the proper use and maintenance of hand tools.
  • Capable of receiving and following directions.
  • Capable of learning basic knowledge of materials used.
  • Possess a basic knowledge of materials used.
  • Able to identify primary and secondary voltage on a circuit.
  • Must be familiar with induced voltage.
  • Capable of assisting with the installation and hook up of a single phase transformer.
  • Understands the basic concepts of equipment set up and grounding.
  • Capable of working at heights and/or confined spaces.
  • Understands minimum approach distance.
  • Capable of checking voltage on transformers.
  • Understands flag and tag procedures.
  • Capable of installing and removing a service.
  • Capable of properly inspecting rubber goods and PPE.
  • Understands when to wear personnel protective equipment.
  • Understands how and when to use Kellum grips.
  • Able to identify different types of materials used.
  • Willingness to glove/work live high voltage distribution lines.
  • Must be able to work outside, frequently in inclement weather.
  • Does all other related work as required to complete the job.

Minimum Requirements:

  • 5-year minimum of recent field experience.
  • Able to read and communicate effectively in English.
  • Able to obtain a Commercial Driver's License permit within 60 days of employment.
  • A Commercial Driver's License is preferred.
  • Able to travel long distances on short notice, when required.
  • Able to work for extended periods in various locations, when required.
  • Able to lift in excess of 50 lbs.
  • Able to properly inspect rubber goods and PPE.
  • Willing to work over-time when requested.
  • Willing to work outside of the normal work schedule including weekends, holidays, and overtime as required for the position.

Physical Demands:  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to fingers, handle and feel; and reach with hands and arms.

Work Environment:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to a variety of extreme conditions at construction job sites. The noise level in the work environment and job sites can be loud. This position is performed in outside weather conditions.

Competencies:

  • Self-Motivated
  • Team-Oriented
  • Customer Oriented
  • Must be able to follow Company safety rules and all other Company policies.

NOTE:  This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Equal Opportunity Employer - Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled

VA Approved Apprenticeship Program - GI Bill Benefits Available to Eligible Veterans

Pike Electric, LLC is a Non-union Company

About Us
Founded in 1945, Pike is a leading provider of construction, repair and engineering services for electric and gas utilities, as well as telecommunications companies with a growing portfolio of turnkey renewable projects. We work with hundreds of utility clients across the country, and we continuously expand our offerings to supply our customers with the ideas, technology, experience, manpower and equipment to perform any job.
"Essential" is the one word that sums up who we are, the work we do and what our people mean to us. Each of our employees plays a critical role in ensuring that infrastructure systems are up and running when people and businesses need them.
Pike is a family-oriented workplace with a strong culture of safety, collaboration, innovation and exceptional customer service.
Electric

We work with utilities across the country to solve our nation's energy infrastructure challenges, from designing new transmission and distribution systems, upgrading and managing installation of the latest smart meter technologies, and integrating renewable energy sources onto the grid.