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Distribution System Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Alliance Water Resources

Operator I

Maquoketa, IA

... Operator for the water and wastewater treatment plant in our Maquoketa, IA division. Schedule ... Performs a variety of maintenance and repair work in the distribution and/or collection system on ...

Aerotek

Forklift Operator

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$17/hr

... fast-paced distribution center. In this role, you'll safely operate a stand-up forklift while ... Use a voice/headset-directed system to receive instructions and navigate the warehouse * Move ...

Crate and Barrel

Forklift Operator

Newton, IA

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

With a team of more than 8,000 associates spanning 130 store and distribution locations across the ... Participates in ongoing training regarding technology upgrades and new systems applicable to the ...

Cargill

Process Operator

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

... processing, and distribution. We also offer a range of farmer services and risk management ... Monitoring equipment, operating control systems, processing samples, and utilizing computer systems ...

Cargill

Process Operator

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

... processing, and distribution. We also offer a range of farmer services and risk management ... Monitoring equipment, operating control systems, processing samples, and utilizing computer systems ...

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$12

$27

$48

How much do distribution system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution system operator in Iowa is $27.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $30.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 is a distribution systems operator?

A distribution systems operator is responsible for managing and controlling the distribution of electricity from transmission systems to end-users. They monitor grid conditions, operate switching equipment, and ensure reliable power delivery, often working with SCADA systems and adhering to safety and regulatory standards.

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.

More about Distribution System Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Distribution System Operator jobs in Iowa? For Distribution System Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Distribution System Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Distribution System Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Distribution System Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Distribution System Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Distribution System Operator jobs in IA? For Distribution System Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Distribution System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Distribution System Operator job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,408 per year, or $27.6 per hour.
Research Assistant Professor - Electrical and Computer Engineering

Research Assistant Professor - Electrical and Computer Engineering

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago

Iowa State University rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

306th of 530 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Title:
Research Assistant Professor - Electrical and Computer Engineering
Appointment Type:
Faculty
Job Description:
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:
The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ece.iastate.edu), in the College of Engineering at Iowa State University, invites applications for the position of Research Assistant Professor. This is a 3-year term research faculty position that holds responsibilities primarily contributing to the research mission of the department through scholarly impact and an externally funded research program in the areas of wireless and network systems. Specifically, besides contributing to the research, education, and innovation projects led by the Center for Wireless, Communities and Innovation (wici.iastate.edu), the responsibilities include mentoring graduate and undergraduate students working on research and design projects.
Term Faculty hold limited-term, full or part-time, renewable appointments that are not eligible for tenure, but have the potential to be reviewed for advancement into senior ranks. Research faculty must secure extramural funding to fully support their research program and at least 80% but no more than 90% of their salary, with the remainder salary provided by the department.
Successful candidates will have experience that demonstrates exceptional ability or potential to produce scholarship, compete for and secure funding from external sources, and the capability for long-term leadership in their research field. They will also exhibit excellent communication skills.
Required Minimum Qualifications:
  • Ph. D. in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Research experience and quality publications in advanced wireless and network systems (e.g., safety-critical wireless, URLLC, Open RAN, 6G/NextG);
  • Hands-on experience with cellular network platforms (e.g., O-RAN, srsRAN, OpenAirInterface, Aether/SD-RAN), edge/cloud computing platforms (e.g., Kubernetes, OpenStack), SDN, and/or VNF;
  • Hands-on experience in designing, developing, deploying, and/or operating field-deployed wireless, network, and/or distributed systems;
  • Hands-on experiences in edge/cloud systems management, virtual machines/containers, Linux systems administration, shell scripting, etc;
  • Capability of building systems prototypes based on reference publications and/or open-source software;
  • Knowledge of wireless systems, networked/distributed systems, operating systems, virtualization, systems and network security;
  • Programming skills: Python, C, C++, Java, Web etc.

Department/Program & College Description:
The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Iowa State University is home to 60 faculty and is associated with 11 research centers and institutes, for instance, the Center for Wireless, Community and Innovation (WiCI). The department boasts 20 IEEE Fellows, over $15.4M in research expenditures (FY20), and one of the largest ECpE enrollments in the nation.
About Iowa State University and the Ames Community
Iowa State University is classified as a Carnegie Foundation Doctoral/Research University-Extensive. More than 30,000 students are enrolled and are served by over 6,200 faculty and staff. The College of Engineering consists of eight departments with annual research expenditures exceeding $105 million.
Iowa State University is located in Ames, IA, a progressive community of 66,000, located approximately 30 minutes north of Des Moines, one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the Midwest, and is beaming with community pride and accolades.
Iowa State University and the College of Engineering are responsive to the needs of dual-career couples and are dedicated to work-life balance through an array of flexible work policies.
Department Unit/Website:
For more information about our department's engineering programs, go to www.ece.iastate.edu.
Proposed Start Date:
August 16, 2026
Proposed End Date or Length of Term:
May 15, 2029
Number of Months Employed Per Year:
09 Month Work Period
Time Type:
Full time
Application Instructions:
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. However, to receive full consideration, applications should be received by May 31st, 2026. All interested, qualified persons must apply for this position online at jobs.iastate.edu.
The following documents are required to be submitted in PDF format:
  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae
  • Letter of Application/Cover Letter that briefly discusses how the candidate meets each of the preferred qualifications
  • Contact information for at least three references, including name, mailing address, email address, phone number, and other pertinent information
  • Research statement

Inquiries regarding this position may be directed to Hongwei Zhang (hongwei@iastate.edu) or Sara K. Harris (skharris@iastate.edu).
Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State Faculty enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
Original Posting Date:
March 4, 2026
Posting Close Date:
Job Requisition Number:
R18719

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