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Apprentice System Operator Jobs in Edison, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Engineer Apprentice Launch your career in maintenance and engineering at JLL! The Engineer ... of system specific Standard Operating Procedures(SOP) Assist with critical system shutdown and ...

Work with system documentation, schematics, and software tools to identify and correct equipment ... Operating safely around energized equipment and moving conveyors. At JLL, we work together to ...

Mechatronics Junior Technician Apprentice - JLL What this job involves: As a Mechatronics Junior ... that systems function properly; communicates with machine operators, and operate equipment to ...

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Apprentice System Operator information

See Edison, NJ salary details

$14

$20

$30

How much do apprentice system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice system operator in Edison, NJ is $20.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $22.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 popular job titles related to Apprentice System Operator jobs in Edison, NJ? For Apprentice System Operator jobs in Edison, NJ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Edison, NJ are hiring for Apprentice System Operator jobs? Cities near Edison, NJ with the most Apprentice System Operator job openings:
First Operator Central Plant

First Operator Central Plant

New York University

New York, NY • On-site

$62.19/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


New York University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

94th of 531 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Summary
SHIFT: Friday - Tuesday 11:00PM - 7:00AM
Monitor and operate combined heat and power plant and chilled water systems and connected equipment controls. Ensure plant operations are performed safely and efficiently; monitor and respond to changes in operating conditions to maintain continuous plant performance; as directed perform operations work order duties and routines. Per prescribed frequencies and in accordance with established round protocols and recording direction, perform physical watch stander rounds of the cogeneration facility. Record and report any abnormal conditions to the Engineer. Assist Engineer in troubleshooting any plant issues. As required receive plant fuel and material deliveries. Maintain qualifications and perform stack emissions observations. At the engineer's direction manipulate manual and automatic valves and controllers in the plant. Respond to field emergencies as needed. Perform lock out tag out as directed. Ability to assist the Engineer in operating the plant either in the field or via the plant computerized control systems.
Qualifications
Required Education:
High School diploma.City of New York Certificate of Qualification for Refrigeration System Operator. City of New York Engineers License for High Pressure Boilers, Engines and Pumps.
Preferred Education:
Operating Engineer Apprentice Program.Trade School or other Post-Elementary EducationEngineering Degree.
Required Experience:
Five years relevant experience
Preferred Experience:
Operation and maintenance of Gas Turbines/Combustion Turbines, Heat Recovery Steam Generators
Required Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:- Knowledge of cogeneration and chilled water systems, equipment and proper operating conditions.- Knowledge of combined heat and power and chilled water systems and chilled systems, equipment and proper operating conditions.- Knowledge of maintenance routines and standards.- Soldering, minor welding, wire pulling, brazing, pipe threading and conduit installation skills.- Safe operation of hand tools, power tools, rigging equipment.- Good written and verbal communications skills, good interpersonal skills. - Basic knowledge/familiarity with computer applications such as Email, MS word and MS excel.- Maintain shift records for use by Central Plant staff.- Ability to learn plant instrumentation and control systems.- Ability to perform required task under minimum supervision- Ability to read and interpret diagrams, P7ID's, logic diagrams and OEM schematics- Knowledge of DDC instrumentation and Control systems- Knowledge in the operation and maintenance of high voltage switchgear and control equipment- Perform effective shift turn-over to oncoming shift, i.e., complete communication of plant equipment status and issues requiring attention by the oncoming shift; unfinished operations and maintenance tasks.- Positive attitude, willingness to collaborate and team with others to accomplish work efficiently and to high quality standards.Essential Requirements of the Position: - Proficient in English (e.g. reading directions and instructions written in English).- Ability to climb ladders, perform work safely on 'cherry picker work in hot or cold conditions (with proper personal protective equipment), work in confined space, etc.- Adequate ability to discern colors for monitoring alarm conditions on computer screens.-Ability to wear and work while wearing a full-face respirator.-Ability to lift 50 pounds.-Ability to work off of ladders and scaffolding
Preferred Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:
-Knowledge of University and department policies, processes, and quality standards.
Additional Information
In compliance with NYC's Pay Transparency Act, the hourly rate for this position is USD $62.185. This rate is based on bargaining unit contracts. This pay range represents base pay only and excludes any additional items such as incentives, bonuses, clinical compensation, or other items.
NYU aims to be among the greenest urban campuses in the country and carbon neutral by 2040. Learn more at nyu.edu/nyugreen.
NYU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to a policy of equal treatment and opportunity in every aspect of its recruitment and hiring process without regard to age, alienage, caregiver status, childbirth, citizenship status, color, creed, disability, domestic violence victim status, ethnicity, familial status, gender and/or gender identity or expression, marital status, military status, national origin, parental status, partnership status, predisposing genetic characteristics, pregnancy, race, religion, reproductive health decision making, sex, sexual orientation, unemployment status, veteran status, or any other legally protected basis. All interested persons are encouraged to apply at all levels.

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About New York University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since its founding in 1831, NYU has been an innovator in higher education, reaching out to an emerging middle class, embracing an urban identity and professional focus, and promoting a global vision that informs its 20 schools and colleges. Today, that trailblazing spirit makes NYU one of the most prominent and respected research universities in the world, featuring top-ranked academic programs and accepting fewer than one in eight undergraduates. Anchored in New York City and with degree-granting campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai as well as 12 study away sites throughout the world, NYU is a leader in global education, with more international students and more students studying abroad than any other US university.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

1831