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Distribution System Operator Jobs in Des Moines, IA

City of Altoona

Utilities Operator I

Altoona, IA · On-site

$26.22 - $34.22/hr

... water distribution system, sewer collection system, and performs related duties as required ... Required to possess a Grade 1 operator's certificate issued by the State of Iowa in Water Treatment ...

City of Altoona

Utilities Operator I

Altoona, IA · On-site

... water distribution system, sewer collection system, and performs related duties as required ... Required to possess a Grade 1 operators certificate issued by the State of Iowa in Water Treatment ...

City of Altoona

Utilities Operator I

Altoona, IA · On-site

$26.22 - $34.22/hr

... water distribution system, sewer collection system, and performs related duties as required ... Required to possess a Grade 1 operator's certificate issued by the State of Iowa in Water Treatment ...

City of Altoona

Utilities Operator I

Altoona, IA

$26.22 - $34.22/hr

... water distribution system, sewer collection system, and performs related duties as required ... Required to possess a Grade 1 operator's certificate issued by the State of Iowa in Water Treatment ...

ISG

Designer - Water/Wastewater

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$20 - $50/hr

Clarion Water Distribution System - ISG provided a comprehensive WaterCAD Distribution System Modeling and Preliminary Engineering Report identifying critical improvements needed to the City of ...

Des Moines Water Works

Laborer-Pipelines

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$62K - $76K/yr

Visually and manually inspects all fire hydrants and blow offs in the distribution system to ensure proper operation. Locates, inspects, and adjusts valve boxes to ensure valves can be operated.

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Distribution System Operator information

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$12

$28

$50

How much do distribution system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution system operator in Des Moines, IA is $28.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $31.92 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 Des Moines, IA? For Distribution System Operator jobs in Des Moines, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Distribution System Operator jobs in Des Moines, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Distribution System Operator jobs in Des Moines, IA are:
Distribution System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Distribution System Operator job openings in Des Moines, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,649 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Assoc/Distribution Operator

Berkshire Hathaway Energy

Urbandale, IA

$15.50 - $18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Berkshire Hathaway Energy rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Under direction of a distribution operator or shift supervisor, the MidAmerican Energy Company associate distribution operator monitors and operates the 15 kV electric power system based on MidAmerican Energy Company operating standards and guidelines. The associate distribution operator provides support to the distribution operator and shift supervisor in the area of callouts, dispatching and other areas as directed. This position is intended to be a training position until the incumbent is fully qualified to operate the system independently as a distribution operator. After 8-12 months as an associate distribution operator, the employee's performance will be reviewed to see if he/she meets the minimum qualifications and performance standards for becoming a distribution operator. The associate distribution operator will be required to achieve proficiency and move to the distribution operator position within 12 months of starting training. Failure to meet these performance standards within 12 months will result in a six-month remedial period. At the end of the remedial period, the associate distribution operator will be evaluated for possible advancement to the distribution operator position. Proficiency will be determined by testing and observation.MidAmerican Energy Company, a Midwest utility, provides regulated electric and natural gas service to more than 1.6 million customers in Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota. The company owns and operates a portfolio of power-generating assets, approximately 61% of which is wind generation.MidAmerican Energy Company is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or religious creed, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status (except as required by law), gender (including gender identity and expression), sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, familial or parental status, marital status or any other category protected by applicable local, state or U.S. federal law. Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without an accommodation.

Bachelor or technical degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience. (Typically six years of related, progressive work experience would be needed for candidates applying for this position who do not possess a bachelor or technical degree.) 

Three years prior work experience in this field or a related field. Examples of related fields would be substation/transmission engineering and substation operations and field operations. 

One year of distribution experience is required. Knowledge of power system devices and operating characteristics and technical skills related to understanding energy control and switching is desired. 

Clearly articulate the key points of an issue, keep attention of others and take recipient's needs into account when speaking or writing. 

Ability to work systematically to analyze problems and issues, identify causes, anticipate implications and identify effective courses of action. 

Ability to coordinate construction or maintenance projects to maximize efficiency while ensuring continued reliability. 

Ability to resolve conflicting demands in a diplomatic manner while maintaining system integrity and reliability of service to our customers during outage periods. 

Ability to work a rotating shift. 

Effective oral and written communication skills. 

Effective analytical and problem-solving skills. 

Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks and projects concurrently.

Complete training to become fully qualified as a distribution operator within 12 months of starting the training program. 

Under direction, conduct real-time actions that ensure safe, reliable and economic operation of the 15 kV electrical system, beginning at the substation breaker and ending at the electric meter of the retail customer, by monitoring and responding to system disturbances involving distribution equipment and taking appropriate steps to restore service to customers and portions of the electrical system affected by the disturbance. (60-65%) 

Under direction direct emergency switching on the 15 kV electrical system. Restore service as safely and quickly as possible. Work closely with transmission operators to ensure that clear and open communication is present between both transmission and distribution electrical systems whenever an incident would occur or actions need to be taken. (20-25%) 

Operate the 15 kV distribution system according to good utility practice criteria and MidAmerican Energy Company operating standards and guidelines. (5-10%) 

Perform additional responsibilities as requested or assigned. (5-10%) Provide technical input to assist in development of project planning. (0-5%) 

Demonstration of knowledge and understanding of human performance improvement techniques. 

Evaluate present practices and implement processes, concepts, training and tools to prevent, detect and correct human errors that may adversely impact the safe, reliable operation of the electric transmission and distribution system.

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