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Balancing Authority System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MWResource, Inc.

System Operator (Transmission)

Richmond, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $22.50/hr

Transmission System Operator Contract-to-Hire Richmond, VA Onsite and Rotating Shift Work CANDIDATE ... and Balancing Authority. Critical, reliability-related tasks are performed without obtaining ...

MWResource, Inc.

System Operator (Transmission)

Richmond, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $22.50/hr

Transmission System Operator Contract-to-Hire Richmond, VA Onsite and Rotating Shift Work CANDIDATE ... and Balancing Authority. Critical, reliability-related tasks are performed without obtaining ...

OG&E

System Operator

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

Has the responsibility and authority to implement real-time actions to ensure the stability of ... Time Balancing Reliability Unit Commitment Operator) and completion of OG&E System Operator ...

OG&E

System Operator

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

Has the responsibility and authority to implement real-time actions to ensure the stability of ... Time Balancing Reliability Unit Commitment Operator) and completion of OG&E System Operator ...

OG&E

System Operator

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

Has the responsibility and authority to implement real-time actions to ensure the stability of ... Time Balancing Reliability Unit Commitment Operator) and completion of OG&E System Operator ...

California ISO

Transmission Dispatcher (Onsite)

Folsom, CA · On-site

$69.13 - $79.35/hr

System operator experience. Recent experience in either California or other major WECC transmission grid or Balancing Authority Area desired. Background in Electrical System Operations or Electric ...

California ISO

Transmission Dispatcher (Onsite)

Folsom, CA · On-site

$69.13 - $79.35/hr

System operator experience. Recent experience in either California or other major WECC transmission grid or Balancing Authority Area desired. Background in Electrical System Operations or Electric ...

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Balancing Authority System Operator information

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How much do balancing authority system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for balancing authority system operator in the United States is $32.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $38.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Balancing Authority System Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Balancing Authority System Operator, you need a strong grasp of power system operations, grid reliability concepts, and typically a background in electrical engineering or a related field. Proficiency with energy management systems (EMS), SCADA platforms, and certifications such as NERC System Operator Certification are commonly required. Exceptional situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and effective communication are vital soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure the reliable and safe operation of the electrical grid, preventing outages and maintaining system stability.

What are the main challenges Balancing Authority System Operators face during grid emergencies, and how are they addressed?

Balancing Authority System Operators often encounter significant challenges during grid emergencies, such as sudden generation outages, unexpected demand spikes, or extreme weather events. In these situations, operators must rapidly assess system conditions, coordinate with neighboring balancing authorities, and implement contingency plans to maintain grid reliability. Effective communication, quick decision-making, and a deep understanding of grid operations are crucial for successfully navigating these high-pressure scenarios. Ongoing training and real-time system monitoring tools help operators stay prepared for such events.

What are Balancing Authority System Operators?

Balancing Authority System Operators are professionals responsible for maintaining the balance between electricity supply and demand within a specific region, known as a balancing authority area. They monitor grid conditions in real-time, coordinate with power plants, and manage energy imports and exports to ensure the stability and reliability of the electric grid. Their work is critical to preventing blackouts and ensuring energy is delivered efficiently to consumers. These operators typically work in control centers and use advanced software and communication systems to perform their duties.

What is the difference between Balancing Authority System Operator vs Power Dispatcher?

AspectBalancing Authority System OperatorPower Dispatcher
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical engineering or related field; certifications like NERC Reliability Coordinator or System Operator license are commonOften requires similar technical knowledge; certifications like NERC Reliability Coordinator or System Operator license are also relevant
Work EnvironmentWorks within control centers managing grid stability and real-time operationsWorks in control rooms or dispatch centers coordinating power flow and responding to system needs
Employer & IndustryUtilities, independent system operators, and regional transmission organizationsUtilities, grid operators, and power companies

The main difference is that a Balancing Authority System Operator oversees the entire balancing of the electrical grid within a specific area, ensuring supply matches demand in real-time. A Power Dispatcher focuses more on directing power flows and managing specific generation or transmission assets. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What states have the most Balancing Authority System Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Balancing Authority System Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Balancing Authority System Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,988 per year, or $32.7 per hour.
System Operator - Balancing Authority & Unit Dispatch

System Operator - Balancing Authority & Unit Dispatch

MISO

Carmel, IN • On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

As our System Operator- Balancing Authority and Unit Dispatch, you will be part of the close-knit team at MISO that impacts over 45 million people by helping ensure they have electricity. This team is involved in two very important roles within MISO; we are Balancing Authorities and Unit Dispatch Operators. As a Balancing Authority Operator, you are responsible for the real time balance of load and generation in the MISO footprint monitoring Area Control Error (ACE). As a Unit Dispatch operator, you are responsible for security constrained economic dispatch system that drives the generation fleet in MISO.
In one year as our System Operator- Balancing Authority and Unit Dispatch, you will know you were successful if you successfully complete the training and certification programs for this position. Once certified, experience will be gained within MISO Operations and success will be measured based upon continued reliable and efficient operations.
We are looking for talented professionals who have:
  • A minimum of 4 years of related experience in the energy or operations industry.
  • A Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field. Educational equivalency may be established with a combination of education, training, certifications and directly related experience
  • A current NERC/RC Certification
  • Strong communication skills

Once on the job:
  • Successful completion of the Unit Dispatch and Balancing Authority Certifications and Board exams
  • Work a 12-hour rotating shift schedule to ensure reliable, efficient, and compliant execution of MISO's Balancing and Dispatch (BA) functions

We would also prefer candidates with the following:
  • Experience in one of the following areas: energy industry, balancing authority, generation system dispatch, transmission system operations, merchant operations, generation operational planning, gas operations, engineering or power accounting

Appropriate level will be determined based upon experience and knowledge.
See what MISO is all about!
MISO manages the electricity superhighway in the Central U.S. Through use of groundbreaking research and advanced technology, our highly skilled employees ensure power flows reliably to 45 million people. Operating the electricity grid, running a robust energy market, planning for a bright future - it's what our immensely talented and dedicated team does every day.
The base salary compensation range being offered for this role is $115,000.00 - $125,000.00 USD annually. Base salary range for this position is included in accordance with requirements of various state/local pay transparency legislation. Please note that salaries may vary for different individuals in the same role based on several factors, including but not limited to location of the role, individual competencies, education/professional certifications, and qualifications/experience.
Position is also eligible for an annual bonus if individual performance and company objectives are met. At MISO we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including 401k, vacation, sick and safe time, available on your first day of employment.
For more info about MISO, check out our video
MISO, What We Do
Apply today for this great opportunity to help us keep the lights on!
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Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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