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Distribution System Operator Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

Operate, monitor, maintain and repair conventional water treatment/distribution systems, including ... Current Hawaii Water Treatment Plant Operator (WTPO) Certification Required Grade 1 or higher.

Operate, monitor, maintain and repair conventional water treatment/distribution systems, including ... Current Hawaii Water Treatment Plant Operator (WTPO) Certification Required Grade 1 or higher.

Electronics Technician responsibilities encompass, operating, maintaining, troubleshooting ... Major Battery Back-up and power distribution system experience desired. * Must be able to use and ...

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Distribution System Operator information

See Hawaii salary details

$13

$30

$53

How much do distribution system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution system operator in Hawaii is $30.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.50 and $33.94 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 job categories do people searching Distribution System Operator jobs in Hawaii look for? The top searched job categories for Distribution System Operator jobs in Hawaii are:
What are popular job titles related to Distribution System Operator jobs in HI? For Distribution System Operator jobs in HI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Distribution System Operator job openings in Hawaii as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,502 per year, or $30.5 per hour.
WATER QUALITY ADMINISTRATOR (PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR) (EM-08) [1 vacancy]

WATER QUALITY ADMINISTRATOR (PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR) (EM-08) [1 vacancy]

City and County of Honolulu

Honolulu, HI • On-site

$10K/mo

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


City and County of Honolulu rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

332nd of 649 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Information "Make a ripple of change in water quality." The Honolulu Board of Water Supply is hiring a Water Quality Administrator (Program Administrator). The position is responsible for planning, directing, organizing, administering and certifying the public health and safety, regulatory conformance and environmental protection of the department's water sources, treatment, and delivery systems through program managers and staff in various specialized scientific and technical areas of expertise. This role provides final authority on water quality decisions, guiding treatment processes, system integrity, lab-based service approvals, and responses to water quality issues across the island's water system

What You Will Do: Oversee compliance and enforcement of drinking water and environmental regulations across water source, treatment, storage, and distribution systems. Lead environmental planning and research programs to prevent and respond to pollution threats and disasters. Develop and enforce water quality and environmental protection policies.

Analyze reports, studies, and information to assess the impact on water quality and environmental protection policies and changes on the provision of services to the general public. Directing the preparation of plans for the modification or expansion of programs and budgets. Enjoy excellent employment benefits including generous time off (up to 21 vacation days, 21 sick leave days, and holidays), comprehensive health coverage, retirement plan, career development, and much more.

View details about all our available benefits by clicking on the "Benefits" tab at the top of this posting or visiting https://www.honolulu.gov/dhr/benefits/. Ready to make an impact. Apply today and be part of something bigger

Additional Job Information Some notifications will be sent via e-mail. You are responsible for monitoring instructions and correspondence from this office by checking your email account in a timely manner. To ensure proper delivery, please make sure you: - are subscribed to email notices; - use a valid e-mail account; - verify your e-mail address is entered correctly on your GovernmentJobs account; - check your spam folders; and - add infoneogov@honolulu.gov and info@governmentjobs.com to your contact list

Notifications may also be sent via text message if opted into the service. Data and text messaging fees apply. Minimum Qualification Requirements At time of application, you must be a citizen, national or permanent resident alien of the United States or a non-citizen eligible under federal law for unrestricted employment.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENT: Equivalent to graduation from an accredited four year college or university with a bachelor's degree in chemistry, geochemistry, environmental science, biology, or a closely-related field. The education requirement must be met at the time of application. Education obtained outside of the United States must be comparable to a degree earned at an accredited college/university in the United States.

In order to receive credit for the education, proper documentation, e.g., a foreign credential evaluation (FCE), must be provided. We also reserve the right to request further information about your academic program, evidence of comparability, or an original transcript. Education Verification: Education information must be listed clearly on your application

If available, please attach a legible electronic copy of your diploma, official transcripts, and/or applicable foreign credential evaluation to your application. As part of the hiring process, you may be asked to furnish documentation to verify your education to move forward for further consideration. EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT: Six (6) years of experience in the practices, principles and techniques of laboratory analyses and scientific investigation of water contaminants.

Of this experience: two (2) years of which shall have involved monitoring and enforcing compliance of environmental rules and regulations, OR designing water quality studies or projects incorporating the review, interpretation and analysis of data to formulate conclusions and recommendations; including or supplemented by three (3) years of experience in a managerial/administrative capacity. Such experience must have include demonstrated proficiency in: Administration: Supervisory principles and general administrative practices. Core Sciences: Principles of chemistry, toxicology, and microbiology.

Lab Operations: Current laboratory test methods and water quality testing technologies. Compliance Oversight: Interpreting drinking water regulations and meeting critical deadlines. Rule Enforcement: Formulating and implementing environmental policies, rules, and monitoring programs.

Risk Management: Identifying and resolving operational deviations to maintain compliance. LICENSE/CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENT: State of Hawaii, Board of Certification of Public Water System Distribution System Operator Grade 4 License, at the time of application. Examination Process If you qualify for the position, your name will be eligible for consideration for the current vacancy and future job openings with this job title.

Screening will be based on the education, experience, and other job-related information provided in your application. Failure to provide sufficient information may result in your application being rejected or your receiving a lower rating. All information provided on an application is subject to verification.

As applicable, false or misleading statements or omissions of material facts are grounds for disqualification and/or termination of employment with the City and County of Honolulu.


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