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Distribution System Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

M1 Technology

Software and Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA

$177K - $210K/yr

... operating within a classified development environment. Team member will work as a part of the ... The Test Framework is a distributed system that manages physical and virtual test infrastructure ...

Command Holdings

Water Instructor

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

... Distribution Systems assigned to the program. This position will end on or about August 13, 2027 ... Quattro Consulting, an operating firm of Command Holdings, is a tribally-owned firm providing ...

NRTC

Power Systems Advisory Engineer

Herndon, VA

Execute and/or review distribution planning and power system studies, including protection and ... We are a dynamic, growing cooperative with more than 800 employees operating out of eight office ...

NRTC

Power Systems Advisory Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

We are a dynamic, growing cooperative with more than 800 employees operating out of eight office ... Execute and/or review distribution planning and power system studies, including protection and ...

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All JobsDistribution System Operator JobsDistribution System Operator Jobs in Virginia

Distribution System Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$29

$51

How much do distribution system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution system operator in Virginia is $29.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.44 and $32.40 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.
More about Distribution System Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Distribution System Operator jobs in Virginia? For Distribution System Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Distribution System Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Distribution System Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Distribution System Operator jobs in VA? For Distribution System Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Distribution System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Distribution System Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,596 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Software and Systems Engineer

M1 Technology

Herndon, VA

$177K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Software and Systems Development Engineer to support the design, development, deployment, and ongoing maintenance of a new Test Framework - a purpose-built test orchestration and asset management platform operating within a classified development environment. Team member will work as a part of the engineering team, contributing across the full software development lifecycle of the Test Framework and its operational use.
The Test Framework is a distributed system that manages physical and virtual test infrastructure, orchestrates test execution, and stores and analyzes test results. It operates in an isolated environment with strict controls - creative problem-solving and debugging within those constraints is expected. The devices under test are embedded Linux systems operating in a physical lab network, so familiarity with embedded systems and networking is directly applicable.

Clearance Requirement : TS/SCI (no polygraph required)

Key Responsibilities

  • Design and implement new features across all Test Framework subsystems: Test Manager (configuration, orchestration, results) and Asset Manager (reservation, configuration, tasking, device adapters)
  • Define and implement service APIs using IDLs
  • Develop and maintain device adapters that abstract physical lab hardware (test devices, traffic generators, packet switches, optical switches) behind generic interfaces, including adapters for embedded Linux devices accessed over the network
  • Implement and maintain datastores across multiple database technologies, e.g., PostgreSQL, GraphDB, DynamoDB
  • Deploy and manage the Test Framework using Amazon CDK
  • Develop and maintain CI/CD pipelines in Amazon Pipelines and Gitlab Pipelines
  • Instrument and monitor services with CloudWatch, time series databases, and other alerting tools
  • Produce and maintain technical documentation
  • Provide technical support and guidance to users of the Test Framework
  • Triage and resolve production issues

Required Qualifications

  • 5+ years of professional software development experience
  • Proficiency in Python or Rust; experience with both is a plus.
  • Proficiency in Bash scripting
  • Experience designing and building distributed systems
  • Experience defining service interfaces using an IDL
  • Experience with CI/CD pipeline design and implementation (GitLab CI, Jenkins, or equivalent)
  • Familiarity with containerization
  • Experience working in Linux/Unix environments, with an emphasis on console usage
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with Amazon CDK or other Infrastructure as Code technologies
  • Experience with embedded Linux systems
  • Knowledge of networking fundamentals relevant to embedded and lab environments: Ethernet, IP routing, optical networking concepts, traffic generation and analysis
  • Experience developing in classified or air-gapped environments with restricted tooling
  • Experience with AWS CloudWatch for observability: metrics, logs, alarms, and dashboards
  • Experience with test framework technologies, e.g., pytest, pytest-bdd, robot, behave, etc.
  • Background in hardware-in-the-loop or lab automation testing environments

Why Work at M1?

  • Engage in meaningful, mission-oriented work with national impact
  • Collaborate with top-tier professionals in a high-performance environment
  • Work on cutting-edge projects with the latest technology
  • Enjoy a culture of innovation, integrity, and technical excellence

M1 Technology is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.