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Distribution System Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

City of New Berlin, WI

Utility Operator

New Berlin, WI · On-site

$27.44 - $34.79/hr

... supervision, operator is to perform a variety of skilled mechanical operation, repair and ... Perform skilled operation inspection, maintenance and repair of distribution system, including ...

City of New Berlin

Utility Operator

New Berlin, WI · On-site

$27.44 - $34.79/hr

Perform skilled operation inspection, maintenance and repair of distribution system, including ... and Operators in planning, organizing and directing functions of the Division. Ability to ...

City of Cudahy, WI

WATER PLANT OPERATOR

Cudahy, WI · On-site

$28.78 - $35.50/hr

Directly to Lead Purification Plant Operator. Indirectly to Water Manager. PURPOSE OF POSITION ... Receive notification of distribution system emergencies and contact the appropriate personnel to ...

City of Cudahy

WATER PLANT OPERATOR

Cudahy, WI

$28.78 - $35.50/hr

Directly to Lead Purification Plant Operator. Indirectly to Water Manager. PURPOSE OF POSITION ... Receive notification of distribution system emergencies and contact the appropriate personnel to ...

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Distribution System Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$13

$29

$52

How much do distribution system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution system operator in Wisconsin is $29.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $32.98 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 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 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 Wisconsin? For Distribution System Operator jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Distribution System Operator jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Distribution System Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Distribution System Operator jobs in WI? For Distribution System Operator jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Distribution System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Distribution System Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 2% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,692 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Senior Generation System Operator

Alliantenergy

Madison, WI

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Bring YOUR energy to Alliant Energy!

At Alliant Energy, our purpose is to serve customers and build stronger communities. We are passionate about powering beyond the market challenges of today, while powering what's next in energy. When our employees say "I am energy", it means they take pride in the work we do when disaster strikes, as well as all the days in between. We want you to be safe, happy and healthy. That's why we prioritize safety, offer volunteer opportunities and provide competitive pay, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, tuition reimbursement and paid time off.

Job Summary

Step into a high-impact role where you will be at the center of keeping the power grid running safely and reliably. As a Senior GENCO System Operator, you will play a critical role in real-time operations; monitoring system conditions, directing generation resources, and making fast, informed decisions that keep energy flowing across Alliant Energy's east and west balancing authorities.

This is a dynamic, fast-paced environment where no two days are the same. You'll work alongside a skilled team to optimize generation performance, respond to system events, and ensure compliance with NERC, MISO, and MRO reliability standards. Your expertise will directly support the safe and efficient delivery of energy to the communities we serve.

This role also offers the opportunity to grow your technical capabilities, including obtaining your NERC System Operator Certification within six months of hire.

Important Role Details:

  • This position operates on a rotational schedule and requires availability to work days, nights, weekends, and holidays.

  • This is an on-site role and is not a hybrid opportunity.


What you will do

  • Direct, dispatch, coordinate, and optimize the operation all Alliant Energy and Central Iowa Power Cooperative (CIPCO) generating units during normal operation, alerts, warnings, and emergencies while maintaining reliability of the Alliant Energy east and west balancing authorities.

  • Ensure compliance with all applicable North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and MRO reliability standards as well as MISO, TOP, and Alliant Energy standards and procedures.

  • Assist in training activities, drill preparation, and other NERC required operator training activities.

  • Starts and stops generators in response to requests from MISO or to relieve emergency conditions as needed by the transmission operator.

  • Utilize the generation management system (GMS) to monitor all critical aspects of the bulk electric system, including system load, frequency, tie-line and generator status, and voltage levels.

  • Ensures quality and accuracy of real-time telemetered data and responds to failures by manually updating data and coordinating failed equipment repair or replacement.

  • Monitors real-time interconnected tie line flows and performs nightly interconnection check out with neighboring utilities.

  • Takes or directs appropriate action during normal and emergency conditions to maintain the reliability of the bulk electric system, including implementation of interruptible load, direct load control, firm load shedding, or other load management resources.

  • Ensures accurate daily operations log and detailed records are maintained during shift.

  • Engages in other duties as needed that support Alliant Energy's Values and helps deliver on our Purpose to serve customers and build stronger communities.

Education Requirements

  • Bachelor's Degree Emphasis in engineering, business, marketing or a related field Preferred

  • Certification NERC System Operator Certification is required or must be obtained within six months and maintained Required


Required Experience

  • 5 years of related experience including experience in various phases of power system operation


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Knowledge of the company's generation assets, generation management system, system operations, ATC and ITC Midwest transmission systems, and MISO market and operating procedures.

  • Knowledge of and ability to comply with NERC standards and requirements. Able to participate in NERC compliance audits.

  • Ability to train new System Operators.

  • Demonstrated ability to use computers and analytical methods to analyze various operational problems.

  • Demonstrated effective interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.

  • Ability to work twelve (12) hour shifts on a varying or rotating schedule which may include night, holiday and weekend shifts.

  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative and inclusive work environment.


Key Skills

  • Data Analysis Demand Planning Distribution Automation Emergency Response Power Monitoring Health & Safety Management Load Estimation Outage Management Power Distribution Systems Management Switching Power System Dispatch Strategy Utility Mapping


Our people are passionate about what they do, the product they sell, and the customers they serve. If you're looking for an opportunity to be a part of a work family that values collaboration, innovation and dedication, we're the right company for you.

Alliant Energy offers a comprehensive total rewards package including competitive compensation and benefit programs. Information on these benefit programs is available on our Careers site.

Pay Range:

$93,500 - $128,500

This position is eligible to participate in the annual incentive program. The final salary offered will generally fall within this range and is dependent on various factors including but not limited to the responsibilities of the position, experience, skill set, internal pay equity and other relevant qualifications of the applicant.

It's not just what we do; it's how we do it.

Live Safety. Everyone. Always | Make Things Better | Care For Others | Do The Right Thing | Act For Tomorrow | Think Beyond. Be Bold

Alliant Energy and its subsidiaries are committed to creating a culture of belonging and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis prohibited by law.

All candidates selected for employment with Alliant Energy will be required to successfully complete a background check, and a drug screen where applicable.

Disclaimer:
The above information on this description has been crafted to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not crafted to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

Applicants in need of a reasonable accommodation for any part of the hiring process, please email talent@alliantenergy.com.

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