1

Distribution System Operator Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

... system operator for internal events and coordinate with third-party vendors for external event ... and distribution systems • Support and maintain video walls, digital signage platforms, and ...

... system operator for internal events and coordinate with third-party vendors for external event ... and distribution systems • Support and maintain video walls, digital signage platforms, and ...

Prepare and account for all material movement documentation and update Oracle system accordingly ... Operating since 2009, we draw upon more than a decade of staffing experience to deliver critical ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Distribution System Operator information

See Boston, MA salary details

$14

$31

$56

How much do distribution system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution system operator in Boston, MA is $31.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.51 and $35.53 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.
Senior Engineer, Grid Operations Technology (Hybrid)

Senior Engineer, Grid Operations Technology (Hybrid)

Eversource Energy

Dorchester, MA • Hybrid

$109K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Eversource Energy rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 50 rated energy and utility


Job description

Eversource will not offer immigration-related sponsorship for this position (e.g., H-1B, O-1, J-1, TN, E-3, etc.). Applicants requiring visa sponsorship to start employment with Eversource will not be considered.

Role and Scope of Position:
Grid Operations Technology is responsible for directly supporting the Company's plans to modernize the design and operation of the electric distribution system. The individual will support multi-disciplinary teams through the life cycle of projects from conception and regulatory filings, planning and implementation, and through performance measurement and verification. Individual will be part of a team of engineers who support the Company's electric control centers by providing guidance on optimizing the distribution system for delivering safe, reliable, and resilient energy to our customers while maximizing the value of clean energy resources. Individual will also support multi-disciplinary teams responsible for all phases of implementation including technology review and selection; defining project budget, scope, and schedule; project management; internal and external reporting and tracking; and stakeholder engagement. Engagement with external counterparts, vendors, and other stakeholders to ensure the Company is driving towards industry best practices.

Essential Functions:

Support the Company's electric system operators by optimizing the distribution system using the distribution network advanced functionality of DMS which include Automatic Feeder Reconfiguration (AFR), Load Volt/VAR Management (LVM), Planned Outage Study and DER/Load Forecasting

Serve as a subject matter expert in real time technologies such as ADMS, SCADA, DER dispatching, energy storage, microgrids, Volt/Var Optimization and load shedding

Collaborate with system operations control centers, IT, and engineering resources to ensure DMS functionality and future enhancements.

Support the specification and configuration of DMS advanced applications such as FLISR, LVM, AFR, and Load and Generation Scheduling

Support the development of project approval documentation with need statement, scope, description of technical solution, alternatives considered, risks and mitigations, budget, and schedule

Participate in the investigation of new technologies and tools in the industry and assess the relevance of and benefit to the Company's system operations control rooms

Develop tools and methods to process and organize data from multiple sources to design and verify engineering models and databases

Support multi-disciplinary teams across three states from distribution engineering, system planning, substation engineering, telecommunications engineering, standards, system operations, field operations, IT, regulatory, legal, community relations, corporate strategy and other groups to ensure effective and efficient implementation of grid modernization programs

Communicate the Company's grid modernization initiatives externally as appropriate and participate in industry forums to support the Company's position regarding best practices in grid modernization

Act on behalf of the Lead Engineer when not present and be an advocate for future looking initiatives

Technical Knowledge/Skill/Education/Licenses/Certifications:

Technical Knowledge/Skill: Thorough understanding of electrical engineering concepts such as load flow, stability voltage regulation, power factor, losses, load and generation modeling; Experience modeling electric distribution systems; Ability to manipulate data from large datasets to provide specific engineering results; Thorough knowledge of electric distribution operational technologies such as DMS, OMS, GIS, SCADA, EMS, Synergi/Cyme.; Basic understanding of communication systems and protocols, such as DNP, used in SCADA control systems; strong analytical skills including experience using qualitative tools in strategic development; demonstrated business development aptitude with strong presentation skills; strong leadership skills to penetrate and work effectively throughout the organization; demonstrated competency and proficiency in oral and written communications. Ideal candidate is customer driven; displays initiative as a change agent with a can-do attitude; accepts responsibility and holds others accountable; participates in and facilitates team effectiveness; assumes the role of team leader; and makes sound decisions to support strategic objectives.

Education: Requires a Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology (MS in Engineering or MBA preferred)

Experience: Minimum of five (5) years in the technical, operational, or engineering aspects of the electrical utility industry. Supervisory experience preferred.

Licenses & Certifications: None.

#LI-ES3

#LI-Hybrid

#engajd

Competencies:

Build trusting relationships

Manage and develop people

Foster teamwork and cross-functional collaboration

Lead change

Communicate strategic vision

Create an engaged workforce

Focus on the customer

Take ownership & accountability

Compensation and Benefits:

Eversource offers a competitive total rewards program.Check out our careers site for an overview of our benefits programs. Salary is commensurate with your experience. This position is eligible for a potential incentive. The annual salary range for this position is:

$129,450.00-$143,830.00

Worker Type:

Regular

Number of Openings:

1

Emergency Response:

Responding to emergency situations to meet customers' needs is part of every employee's role. If employed, you will be given an Emergency Restoration assignment. This means you may be called to assist during an emergency outside of your normal responsibilities, work hours and location.

EEO Statement:

Eversource Energy is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, disability status, or protected veteran status.

VEVRRA Federal Contractor


What Eversource Energy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom