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Distribution System Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Employee is responsible for operating backhoe and excavator in the installation and repair of water ... Maintains the condition of the water distribution and pumping system including fire hydrants.

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Water Treatment Operator

Gordon, TX · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

... the distribution system, and responding to emergencies. This role supports a team in delivering ... senior operator positions. Key Responsibilities: • Operate and monitor surface water treatment ...

Monitors and operates water distribution system equipment such as pumps, valves, motors, gauges ... Must possess a Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Class "C" Wastewater Operator ...

Lead team of 5-8 engineers to develop design and construction work packages for electrical overhead and underground distribution systems operating from 4kV through 138kV mostly associated with ...

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Distribution System Operator information

See Texas salary details

$12

$27

$48

How much do distribution system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution system operator in Texas is $27.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $30.48 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 Texas? For Distribution System Operator jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Distribution System Operator jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Distribution System Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Distribution System Operator jobs in TX? For Distribution System Operator jobs in TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Distribution System Operator job openings in Texas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,943 per year, or $27.4 per hour.
Distribution Engineering Supervisor

Distribution Engineering Supervisor

Leidos

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 428 rated business services


Job description

At Leidos, the opportunities are boundless. We challenge our staff with interesting assignments that provide them with an opportunity to thrive, professionally and personally. For us, helping you grow your career is good business.
Leidos is seeking a Distribution Engineering Supervisor who is passionate about electric utility design engineering. We're looking for someone who is dedicated to ensuring that every project, no matter how simple or complex, is of exceptional quality. You'll be working directly with clients to make sure that Leidos' reputation for high-quality work is always maintained. If you join us in this role, you'll gain expertise in a variety of areas, including NESC, Structural Pole Modeling, Electrical Power Calculations, GIS design training, Field Data Collection, and Client Design Standards. Your greatest work is ahead!
This position follows a hybrid work model, with three days per week spent in the office collaborating with internal teams and two days per week working remotely.
The successful candidate will have experience in developing construction work packages for the electric distribution system using various software systems and construction standards. Distribution systems may be in an OH, UG, or URD environment. Project work may include grid hardening and reliability, substation optimization, joint use make ready and street light projects. Work packages will be developed using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Computer Aided Design (CAD) tools, Work Management Systems (WMS), and other client systems. Project work will require performing engineering calculations that may include: structural analysis of poles, guying, cable pulling, electric demand, fault currents, and coordination of protective devices. Assignments may also include: preparing forestry trimming requests, facilitating permit and Right-of-Way acquisition, development of a BOM, estimating costs, and customer advocacy such as acquiring easements.
As a Distribution Engineering Supervisor, you can expect to support the following activities with minimal oversight:
  • Lead team of 5-8 engineers to develop design and construction work packages for electrical overhead and underground distribution systems operating from 4kV through 138kV mostly associated with programmatic work such as overloaded transformers, inspection and maintenance, joint use, and inspection reports.
  • Oversee on-boarding, performance, and day to day assignments of direct reports
  • Act as technical lead for engineers/designers to develop construction work packages included engineering calculations and constructability concern; this will including training junior engineers and designers, and entry-level technicians
  • Work under Engineering Manager to maintain project scope, schedule and budget
  • Review work provided by Client and assess requirements of scopes; Communicate work progress, technical issues, and schedule with Client.
  • Comply with Leidos and Client Safety requirements as well as design and quality expectations.
  • Develop permitting documents for different AHJ's (Authority Having Jurisdiction)
  • Coordinate with permit agencies, right-of-way specialists, system owners, field and forestry personnel, and 3rd party owners for joint-owned poles
  • Travel to sites/Customer meetings as needed.
  • Perform engineering calculations such as: structural analysis for wood pole loading, guying calculations, specifying conductor sags and tensions for recommended spans, and calculation of voltage drop and flicker.
  • Perform reviews (QAQC) of work by other engineers for submittal to Clients.
  • Provide engineering support during construction, including post-construction reviews to ensure all applicable engineering and construction standards have been met.
  • Conduct root cause analysis of outages and mitigation using engineering principles and design.

What Sets You Apart (Background Requirements):
  • 4+ years of prior relevant experience is required.
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering discipline (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, or Industrial) from an ABET accredited institution; additional relevant experience/certifications may be considered in lieu of degree.
  • Experience with NESC Standards, AutoCAD and/or MicroStation, and Bluebeam and/or Adobe.
  • Experience with distribution design tools such as BOUD, Pole Foreman, Spida-Calc, O-Calc, DDS and SAP
  • Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.)
  • Excellent verbal and written communications skills.
  • Ability to review other engineer designs with detailed eye for errors.
  • Some previous experience monitoring scopes and tracking others work progress.
  • Willingness to perform both office work and field work; Overnight travel may be necessary (15-25% travel).
  • Ability to work in outdoor environments.
  • Ability to utilize a personal vehicle, as some customer-related travel may be anticipated (Job-related travel will be reimbursed at IRS-approved rates
  • Experience with ESRI and GIS are preferred, but not required
  • Prior team leadership experience is a plus

At Leidos, we pride ourselves on being a trusted and technology-focused solutions provider. Our Power Delivery Services Team is the go-to for utilities and mobile operators who need reliable power and telecommunication expertise. We've worked with over 50 investor-owned utilities, over 160 municipals/cooperatives, and we're continuing to expand our reach. Plus, we've got an amazing group of industry-leading construction partners who help us deliver meaningful Energy Delivery Solutions. Our recognition as an industry leader has been confirmed time and time again. Engineering News-Record (ENR) has ranked Leidos among the Top 10 T&D Firms and Top 10 Power Firms.
As a valued team member, you can look forward to a fast paced, diverse work environment and flexible work hours/work arrangements, as well as managers who will encourage career development and growth opportunities, including Professional Engineer License (PE), Project Management Professional (PMP), Leadership training, Formal Mentorship Programs, Management opportunities.
PDSDLINE
PowerDelivery
If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
April 7, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $73,450.00 - $132,775.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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