1

Distribution System Operator Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Purpose The Water Operator performs routine functions associated with the daily operations of a water production and distribution system. Duties include daily checks of wells, pumps, lift stations ...

Evaluate and recommend distribution system upgrades, expansions, and improvements to support load ... Develop, manage, and monitor departmental operating and capital budgets. * Address project ...

Evaluate and recommend distribution system upgrades, expansions, and improvements to support load ... Develop, manage, and monitor departmental operating and capital budgets. * Address project ...

Maintenance Operator I-III

Osceola, AR · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

... distribution systems, and balance of plant systems. 4. Comply with all Fossil Safety Procedures and Policies. 5. Step-up to Temporary Supervisor or Contract Administrator position with responsibility ...

Maintenance Operator I-III

Osceola, AR

$17.50 - $23/hr

Maintenance Operator I-III Work Place Flexibility: Onsite Legal Entity: Entergy Arkansas, LLC ... distribution systems, and balance of plant systems. 4.  Comply with all Fossil Safety Procedures ...

An Operator will identify problems when they occur and take the necessary corrective actions. The ... Maintenance of the Utility Distribution Systems includes regular inspections, proactive preventive ...

SWEPCO NERC Compliance Lead

Fulton, AR · On-site

$145K/yr

Work with Operating Company's Impacted Business Unit Leader (IBUL) to review and approve mitigation ... Distribution system experience is a plus. NERC Compliance Lead (Salary Grade 10) Education:

next page

Showing results 1-20

Distribution System Operator information

See Arkansas salary details

$10

$24

$42

How much do distribution system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution system operator in Arkansas is $24.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $27.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Distribution System Operator?

A Distribution System Operator (DSO) is responsible for managing and controlling the distribution of electricity from the transmission system to end users, such as homes and businesses. DSOs ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient delivery of electricity, monitor real-time grid operations, and respond to outages or emergencies. They also coordinate with power generators, transmission system operators, and other stakeholders to maintain grid stability and integrate renewable energy sources. The role may involve using specialized software, remote monitoring tools, and field operations. DSOs play a crucial part in modernizing the electrical grid and supporting energy transition initiatives.

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

To thrive as a Distribution System Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, grid operations, and compliance standards, typically supported by a technical diploma or associate degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, outage management software, and NERC certifications is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring reliable power delivery, quick response to disruptions, and maintaining safety and regulatory compliance within the energy grid.

What is the difference between Distribution System Operator vs Substation Technician?

AspectDistribution System OperatorSubstation Technician
Required credentialsRelevant certifications (e.g., CDL, safety training)Electrical certifications, safety training
Work environmentFieldwork on power lines, substations, and distribution networksSubstation equipment maintenance and repair
Employer & industry usageUtility companies, power distribution firmsUtility companies, electrical service providers
Common search & comparison intentRoles involved in power distribution managementTechnical maintenance of substations

The Distribution System Operator oversees the operation and maintenance of power distribution networks, ensuring reliable electricity delivery. Substation Technicians focus on maintaining and repairing substation equipment. While both roles work within the electrical utility industry and require safety and electrical certifications, the Distribution System Operator has a broader responsibility for system management, whereas the Substation Technician specializes in substation equipment.

What Is a Distribution System Operator?

A distribution system operator, or DSO, coordinates the distribution system for a product or good. An electric distribution system operator distributes energy resources, but system distribution operators also work in fields related to water, utilities, and fuel. You monitor system operations, maintain the distribution system, and document any issues or problems. You ensure the electric grid works through various problems and weather conditions. If you work in gas distribution, you oversee the transport of natural gas through pipeline networks and to customers. Your responsibilities and duties include troubleshooting and repairing the distribution system and creating recovery and emergency contingency plans.

What are some typical challenges a Distribution System Operator faces during emergency situations?

Distribution System Operators often encounter high-pressure scenarios during emergencies, such as severe weather events or equipment failures, where quick decision-making and effective communication are crucial. Balancing the restoration of power while ensuring the safety of field crews and the public can be challenging. Operators must coordinate closely with various teams, prioritize tasks, and adapt to rapidly changing system conditions to minimize downtime and maintain grid stability. Regular training and scenario planning help prepare for these demanding situations.
What are popular job titles related to Distribution System Operator jobs in AR? For Distribution System Operator jobs in AR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Distribution System Operator job openings in Arkansas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,541 per year, or $24.3 per hour.
FUEL DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATOR (Title 5)

FUEL DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATOR (Title 5)

Air National Guard Units

Fort Smith, AR • On-site, Remote

$30.79 - $35.94/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Air National Guard rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 5 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION
This National Guard position is for a FUEL DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATOR (Title 5), Position Description Number T5799507 and is part of the AR ANG 188 LGR SQ, National Guard.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
1. Organizes, administers and evaluates a segment of the fuels quality assurance program for the organization. Ensures responsibilities for product compliance inspections of all petroleum activities. Draws fuel samples for frequencies and exact testing following procedures listed in appropriate technical orders. Determines status and adequacy of actions taken on prior inspection items and prepares accurate reports for management use. Conducts statistical surveys of petroleum products in areas where trouble had been encountered. Analyzes defect data, isolates trends and recommends corrective action. Investigates problem areas, identifies causes, recommends and takes corrective follow-up action. Verifies quality through the application of audit and investigative methods to ensure compliance with established guidelines. Advises responsible supervisors on quality problems and required corrective action. Provides technical assistance to personnel in assigned organization in order to improve quality and enhance safety of equipment and workers using products. Prepares local operating procedures based on supplements, regulations, and manuals of higher echelons in the area of quality assurance. Assists in managing fiscal resources for support of the quality assurance program. Conducts laboratory analysis to determine that physical and chemical properties of products are within specification use limits. Operates precision measuring instruments and analytical equipment designed to measure the effectiveness of mechanical systems and petroleum handling hardware. Tests various petroleum, cryogenic samples for total solids and microscopic analysis. Extracts samples from selected source throughout the base and submits to area laboratory for pollution control and correlation testing. Samples are recorded in the Air Force Test and Analysis Tool. Uses technical publications, bulleting, specifications and standards. Must conduct surveillance inspections during operations of components in pump house and tank farms during receipt, transfer, sampling and issue of petroleum products. Recommends objectives and acts as an advisor on well defined, non-controversial fuels projects to ensure continuous refinement of the quality program in response to test results, processing problems or objective quality evidence. Responsible for maintaining the Quality Control module in the Fuels Automated System Fuels Manager Defense database. Documents all sampling, sample due dates and the status of all equipment in the FMD. Builds and maintains test sets in the Quality Control Module of FMD.
2. Directs, inspects, operates and maintains a complete fuels distribution system to receive, store, transfer and issue both aviation and ground fuels in a Type III hydrant system. Operates petroleum products distribution equipment by initiating and controlling the movement and storage of supplies throughout complete pipeline or tank farm systems, using telephone communications, signal systems, a central control board, or similar facilities. Inspects systems for leakage, corrosion, faulty fittings, and inoperative components such as distribution lines, storage tanks, hydrant pits/outlets, oil/water separator, pumps, automatic/manual valves, meters, and system control rooms. Performs operator maintenance to include checking components for operation, adjustment, pressures, and external leakage under pressure, removing/cleaning/inspecting receipt and dispensing strainers, calibrating additive injectors, draining water from lines, tanks, filter separator vessels and dike/containment areas. Reports more extensive repairs/needs. Receives and transfers fuel by coupling and uncoupling hoses, closing and opening valves, starting and stopping pumps, monitoring gauges, meters and filter separators. Maintains hazardous waste management program, to include initial accumulation points maintenance & inspections. Conducts all additional required environmental inspections. Directs and coordinates disposal with Base Environmental Manger. Initiates emergency procedures as necessary.
3. Operates one or more types of special purpose design aviation and ground fuel tank truck vehicles having a capacity of up to 6,000 gallons and gross vehicle weight of 70,000 pounds used for fueling/defueling various types of aircraft and ground fuels applications such as AGE, power production, heating and engine test cells. Transports fuel from the bulk storage area to the flightline issue point, positions the vehicle for the refueling/defueling task as required. Monitors vehicle mounted main control panel, gauges, meters and instruments. Operates dead man control safety system and coordinates with personnel at the aircraft or receiving point.
DUTIES CONTINUE UNDER THE EDUCATION SECTION.
Requirements
Help
Conditions of employment
Conditions of Employment
If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/1959 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you be registered or you are not eligible for appointment in this agency (https://www.sss.gov/RegVer/wfRegistration.aspx).
  • Federal employment suitability as determined by a background investigation.
  • May be required to successfully complete a probationary period.
  • Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.
  • Information Assurance Certification is a condition of employment. Per DoD 8570.01-M, the incumbent must achieve the appropriate IA certification within six months of assignment of these duties.
  • Must be able to obtain/maintain appropriate security clearance
  • Ability to establish effective professional working relationships with coworkers and customers, contributing to a cooperative working environment and successful accomplishment of the mission.
  • May be required to travel by car, in military and/or commercial aircraft, and by other means of transportation as appropriate to perform temporary duty assignments
  • Irregular and/or overtime (compensatory) hours may be required to support operational requirements or contingencies or may be required to work hours outside of the normal duty day.
  • The work may require the incumbent to drive a motor vehicle; if so, and an appropriate valid driver's license is mandatory.
  • This position is designated as Essential Personnel and may be subject to duty in preparation for, or in response to, a state emergency or disaster declaration. Head of Agency requests to exceed 14 days in a calendar year must be approved in advance by the National Guard, Director of Manpower and Personnel (NGB-J1).

Qualifications
GENERAL EXPERIENCE:
Experience or training which demonstrates the ability to follow instructions and to safely operate the type of equipment required to accomplish the duties of the position.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:
Experience or training operating, maintaining, repairing, troubleshooting, and overhauling fuel systems and components. Experience or training initiating and controlling the movement and storage of fuel supplies by operating high pressure systems with a series of terminals connected by cross-country pipelines or multi-fuel storage and distribution facilities connected by a network of internal pipelines.
Education
DUTIES CONTINUED:
3. Exercises safety precautions during fueling/defueling operations. Inspects and performs operator maintenance and safety checks to ensure that refueling equipment is safe and operational. Modifies all sales transactions to reflect fuel at 60 degrees using volume correction factor per DLA policy regarding capitalized fuel.
4. Operates, inspects and performs all required maintenance and repair on 400-5,000 gallon storage tanks. Troubleshoots, tests, and repairs all aspects of mechanical & electrical systems and their subcomponents to include AC generators, complex wiring harnesses, regulators, automatic relays, AC and DC power generation circuitry, electrically controlled solenoids. As a results of such tests and diagnosis, and make necessary repairs and adjustments to obtain maximum operating efficiency. Utilizes electrical test equipment such as multi-meters to monitor system functionality and make repairs. Inspects, maintains, performs operator maintenance, and minor repairs to support equipment and cryogenic samplers to include the following: air purging units, vacuum gauges, vacuum pumps, portable efficiency meters, portable samplers and other support equipment that is required to maintain the cryogenic storage tank in a ready condition to receive, store and transfer LOX or LIN. Applies safety or precautionary procedures required in handling fluids. Analyzes, isolates, and corrects system malfunctions. Performs preventive maintenance on components and tanks, to include inspections. This includes routine maintenance/servicing of components such as compressors, safety valves, hand operated valves, pressure disks, filter/strainer assemblies, gauges, and various moving mechanical parts by disassembling, cleaning, accomplishing minor repairing or adjusting, and reassembling components. Ensures that parts are cleaned and certified as suitable for oxygen/nitrogen servicing. Purges and maintains insulating vacuum on tanks as required by technical orders or product testing results. Maintains inspection and maintenance records and performs quality control of products. Performs periodic sample of purity in lab. Establishes and maintains a level of spare parts or system subparts that are required to keep the tank(s) operational.
5. Assess, monitor and reviews assigned Self-Assessment Communicators utilizing the Management Internal Control Toolset (MICT) program. Uses and assures proper fit of required safety equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE).Plans, monitors and conducts On-The-Job Training (OJT), for assigned Fuels Management Flight personnel. Maintains a consolidated tool kit program.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Additional information
Veteran Preference may apply if the first area of consideration are not met.
Veterans Information: Veterans' information must be validated by formal submissions including all necessary supporting documentation. You must provide acceptable documents for eligibility. Acceptable documentation may be:
1. A copy of your DD-214, "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty," which shows dates of service and discharge under honorable conditions.
2. A "certification" that is a written document from the armed forces that certifies the service member is expected to be discharged or released from active duty service in the armed forces under honorable conditions not later than 120 days after the date the certification is signed.
3. You may obtain a letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs reflecting your level of disability for preference eligibility by visiting a VA Regional Office, contacting a VA call center or online. If claiming over 30% disability a SF-15 is required to be submitted with your letter.
Expand Hide additional information
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
Help
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

What Air National Guard employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom