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Balancing Authority System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JEA

Associate System Operator

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

This is a professional non-supervisory position that performs for operational planning, monitoring, coordinating and operating the transmission and distribution system and the JEA balancing area in ...

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Symbotic

Automation System Operator

Woodland, CA · On-site

What we do The system operator is part of the site operations team, which is part of the Customer ... balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. * Must be capable of occasional and/or continuous ...

Symbotic

Automation System Operator

Woodland, CA

What we do The system operator is part of the site operations team, which is part of theCustomer ... balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. * Must be capable of occasional and/or continuous ...

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

As of Jun 4, 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 II or III

System Operator II or III

CORE Electric Cooperative

Sedalia, CO • On-site

$40.24 - $59.52/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

About CORE
CORE Electric Cooperative is the largest member-owned electric distribution cooperative in Colorado dedicated to providing reliable, affordable, clean, and safe electric service to our communities. With a commitment to innovation and member satisfaction, we strive to meet the evolving needs of our members while maintaining the highest standards of service excellence.
Job Summary
The System Operator II and System Operator III are responsible for the safe and reliable operation of CORE's Transmission and Distribution systems from the Primary or Backup Control Center. The System Operator II performs bulk electric system (BES) transmission tasks and coordinates normal and emergency operations and switching under the supervision of a System Operator III or Senior. The System Operator II and System Operator III will consistently work a 12-hour shift comprised of day or night hours according to the given weekly schedule.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Monitors and controls CORE's transmission and distribution system. Uses SCADA to monitor transmission line status, real and reactive power flows, and voltage per NERC requirements.
  • Coordinates and monitors switching and clearances on the transmission and distribution system, assigning and scheduling requests for clearing lines and equipment and issuing clearances and non-reclose orders.
  • Coordinates routine and emergency switching and operations in accordance with relevant CORE work practices and operating procedures.
  • Analyzes power outages via SCADA, Outage Management System (OMS) and field input. Develops and implements corrective actions. Operates CORE's OMS and reports issues to support.
  • Directs service crews and line crews by radio, telephone and the use of maps in isolating faults, troubleshooting, and restoring customer load.
  • Logs system and operation events, where required. Prepares reports and keeps records.
  • Calls in necessary personnel and dispatches crews as necessary during system emergencies and outages.
  • Answers telephone calls received in the Sedalia office outside of normal working hours and processes them properly.
  • Contacts proper authorities and requests emergency police, fire or medical equipment in the event of accidents, sabotage or vandalism to CORE facilities.
  • Informs CORE management of issues per the Supervisor On-call procedure.
  • Monitors alarms for radio repeaters, substations, building fire alarms, building security and security cameras. Takes appropriate actions as needed.
  • Attends internal and external NERC continuing education classes as needed to obtain or maintain NERC certification.
  • The System Operator III has the authority and responsibility to adhere to the requirements of NERC Reliability Standards and WECC Regional Reliability Standards.

Minimum Qualifications of System Operator II
  • High school diploma or equivalent certificate required
  • 3 or more years of practical experience with an electric utility.
  • Requires valid Colorado driver's license with satisfactory driving record within CORE standards.
  • Must obtain NERC certification as RC, TOP, or BITO within 18 months of employment. Satisfactory background check results required per NERC CIP.
  • Must obtain NERC certification as RC, TOP, or BITO within 18 months of employment.
  • Competent with position-specific software and applications.
  • Competent with Microsoft Office: Excel, Word, Outlook.
  • Competent with general office equipment.

Minimum Qualifications of System Operator III
  • High school diploma or equivalent certificate required.
  • 3 or more years of practical equivalent experience as an electric System Operator required. Willing to consider 5 years' experience in electric utility operations experience in substitute for System operator experience.
  • NERC certification as RC. TOP, or BITO required.
  • Requires a valid Colorado Driver's License with satisfactory driving record within CORE's standards.
  • Satisfactory background check results required per NERC CIP
  • Competent with position-specific software and applications.
  • Competent with Microsoft Office: Excel, Word, Outlook.
  • Competent with general office equipment.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements
  • Sedentary work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally and all other sedentary criteria are met.
  • None: The worker is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions (as in typical office or administrative work).

Note: This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed and is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned.
Application Timeline
The application deadline for this job is estimated to be 6/15/2026. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs, the availability of qualified candidates, and whether the role is filled or not. We encourage qualified candidates to submit their application(s) expediently so as not to miss out on opportunities.
CORE offers a comprehensive benefits package including the following...
  • 9/80 work schedule: every other Friday off!
  • Nine paid holidays per year
  • 160 Hours of accruable PTO per year
  • Paid parental leave
  • Education and training reimbursement
  • Volunteer paid time off
  • 100% Cooperative paid benefits, including:
    • Defined benefit pension plan
    • Medical insurance
    • Dental insurance
    • Vision insurance
    • Short term disability
    • Long term disability
    • Employee assistance program
    • Life insurance
    • HSA with employer contribution
  • 401(k) with up to 4% match. Immediately 100% vested
  • Length of service program
  • Free Onsite EV charging stations (at certain locations)
  • Onsite micro market (at certain locations)
  • Onsite gym with golf simulator and massage chairs (at certain locations)

CORE is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
  • EEO is The Law - click here for more information
  • Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled
  • We consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, handicap or disability, or status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran in accordance with federal law. If you need assistance, please reach out to us at hr@core.coop

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