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Distribution System Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Full-stack Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

About Ocra Ocra is an AI-powered Revenue Management System (RMS) and Global Distribution System (GDS) built for parking assets. Parking owners and operators use Ocra to sell underutilized parking ...

Electrical Engineer - Distribution

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $144K/yr

Power Distribution: Design and manage complex distribution networks, including substations ... power systems (IPS) for operating rooms, MRI/Imaging shielding, and lightning protection.

Electrical Engineer - Distribution

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $144K/yr

Power Distribution: Design and manage complex distribution networks, including substations ... power systems (IPS) for operating rooms, MRI/Imaging shielding, and lightning protection.

Seasonal Forklift Operator

Lemont, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

This position will be required to proficiently perform at least one or more distribution-related ... Information Systems: Warehouse Systems Personal Attributes: * Ability to work a flexible schedule ...

Seasonal Forklift Operator

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

This position will be required to proficiently perform at least one or more distribution-related ... Information Systems: Warehouse Systems Personal Attributes: * Ability to work a flexible schedule ...

Seasonal Forklift Operator

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

This position will be required to proficiently perform at least one or more distribution-related ... Information Systems: Warehouse Systems Personal Attributes: * Ability to work a flexible schedule ...

Seasonal Forklift Operator

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

This position will be required to proficiently perform at least one or more distribution-related ... Information Systems: Warehouse Systems Personal Attributes: * Ability to work a flexible schedule ...

This position will be required to proficiently perform at least one or more distribution-related ... Information Systems: Warehouse Systems Personal Attributes: * Ability to work a flexible schedule ...

Information Systems: Warehouse Systems Personal Attributes: * Ability to work a flexible schedule ... distribution platform and omnichannel presence, which includes world-class supply chain and ...

Showing results 41-60

Distribution System Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$30

$53

How much do distribution system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution system operator in Chicago, IL is $30.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.31 and $33.70 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 job categories do people searching Distribution System Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Distribution System Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Distribution System Operator jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Distribution System Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Distribution System Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,013 per year, or $30.3 per hour.

Full-stack Engineer

Ocra

Chicago, IL • On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

About Ocra
Ocra is an AI-powered Revenue Management System (RMS) and Global Distribution System (GDS) built for parking assets. Parking owners and operators use Ocra to sell underutilized parking inventory through "parking OTAs" to prepaid reservation customers looking to park near airports, event venues and high-demand transient locations.
Ocra's team of parking revenue management experts drives revenue growth without adding labor or disrupting operations, helping assets increase net operating income (NOI).
Ocra partners with 50+ parking operators and 25+ hotel groups at over 600+ locations. The company has raised $10M, most recently an oversubscribed $5M round co-led by Trestle Partners and MCR Hotels.

We're looking for a mid-level full-stack engineer who is energized by working in a small, distributed team where autonomy, curiosity, and adaptability matter more than rigid processes (but we do work on our processes and ensuring it's not total chaos).
What You Will Be Doing
  • Design, build, and maintain full-stack features across our SaaS platform.
  • Develop and optimize APIs (client & server side), including working with messy or poorly documented partner integrations.
  • Write clean, well-tested, and well-documented code (unit and integration testing).
  • Collaborate with teammates on architecture, design reviews, and code reviews.
  • Contribute to shared resources like onboarding guides, runbooks, and documentation.
  • Identify and resolve performance issues, especially around SQL queries and scaling workloads in AWS.
  • Experiment with AI tools and approaches - both to accelerate development and to inform our proprietary AI-enabled product.

Core Skills & Experience
  • Languages: Python (primary), JavaScript/TypeScript (secondary).
  • Databases: Postgres, Redis, and DynamoDB experience, including query optimization.
  • Testing: Familiarity with unit testing, integration testing, and modern testing tools.
  • Cloud: Hands-on experience with AWS (deployment, monitoring).
  • Building and consuming APIs; able to reverse engineer poorly documented systems.
  • Comfortable in a distributed, text-first communication environment (Slack, GitHub, Notion, Linear, Google Docs).
Bonus points for any of the following:
  • Vue experience in building user interfaces and front-end experiences
  • Experience in parking, mobility, or adjacent industries (hotel, airline, shipping, storage, etc.).
  • Background in pricing optimization, revenue management, or omni-channel distribution systems.
  • Familiarity with serverless architectures and event-driven systems.
  • Interest or hands-on experience with AI development (LLMs, agents, or workflow automation).
Who You Are
  • Clear & Direct Communicator
    • Communicates with clarity, precision, and honesty.
    • Assumes good intent and avoids unnecessary fluff.
  • Adaptable Generalist
    • Curious and eager to learn unfamiliar parts of the system.
    • Comfortable wearing multiple hats (full-stack)
    • Collaborative & Feedback-Friendly
  • Creative & Resourceful Hacker
    • Enjoys solving problems that seem impossible - like automating brittle systems or bridging mismatched APIs.
    • Sees constraints as opportunities for inventive solutions.
  • Pragmatic & Impact-Oriented
    • Focuses on delivering value, not chasing perfection.
    • Makes thoughtful tradeoffs between speed and quality.
  • Flexible & Proactive
    • Raises issues early and steps outside their lane when needed.
Non-Negotiables
  • We value humility, curiosity, and outcomes over ego or rigid process.
Benefits
  • Competitive salary w/ ancillary earning opportunities
  • Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, & vision
  • Flexible work-from-anywhere policy
  • Unlimited PTO that supports work-life balance
  • Stock option incentive plan
  • Company-sponsored 401k
  • Structured growth opportunities
  • Training and ongoing professional development