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Distribution System Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

City of Katy

Water Operator

Katy, TX · On-site

$21.77 - $27.22/hr

Water Operator - Public Works Department The City of Katy is seeking a dedicated and skilled Water ... and distribution systems. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in water utility ...

Leidos

Distribution Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$59K - $106K/yr

Our Power Delivery Services Team is the go-to for utilities and mobile operators who need reliable ... system - never from free commercial services (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail) or via WhatsApp ...

Leidos

Distribution Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$59/hr

... systems such as DDS, GDT, GE Smallworld, Bentley Expert Designer, and Maximo * Manage the scope ... Our Power Delivery Services Team is the go-to for utilities and mobile operators who need reliable ...

Leidos

Distribution Engineer

Houston, TX · Hybrid

$59/hr

... systems such as DDS, GDT, GE Smallworld, Bentley Expert Designer, and Maximo * Manage the scope ... Our Power Delivery Services Team is the go-to for utilities and mobile operators who need reliable ...

PNM Resources

Project Manager, NERC Compliance

Alvin, TX · On-site

$128K - $161K/yr

Detailed knowledge of and experience in operations, transmission, and distribution systems ... Experience as a system operator or power plant operator is preferred. CERTIFICATES, LICENSES ...

H2O Innovation Inc.

Water & Wastewater Operator

Spring, TX · On-site

$19.25 - $26.75/hr

Conduct regular inspections of the collection and distribution systems as well as the treatment ... Communicate with operators, clients, and management regarding any issues that may affect the ...

The Walt Disney Company

Electrician

The Woodlands, TX

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

It would be a plus if you had these skills... * +5 years of experience with operating and maintaining all aspects of power distribution including Medium voltage distribution systems, 13.8 kV ...

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All JobsDistribution System Operator JobsDistribution System Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Distribution System Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$12

$28

$49

How much do distribution system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution system operator in Houston, TX is $28.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $31.20 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 Houston, TX? For Distribution System Operator jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Distribution System Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Distribution System Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Distribution System Operator jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Distribution System Operator job openings:
Distribution System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Distribution System Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $58,368 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Water Operator

City of Katy

Katy, TX • On-site

$21.77 - $27.22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Water Operator - Public Works Department
The City of Katy is seeking a dedicated and skilled Water Operator to join our Public Works team. This essential position plays a critical role in maintaining the safety, reliability, and quality of the City's water treatment and distribution systems. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in water utility operations, a strong commitment to public service, and the ability to perform a wide variety of maintenance, repair, and operational duties in both routine and emergency situations.
As a Water Operator, you will help ensure the continuous delivery of safe drinking water to our community by monitoring wells and treatment systems, repairing infrastructure, conducting inspections and testing, and responding to customer service needs. This position is considered essential critical infrastructure personnel and may be required to respond during emergencies, natural disasters, or catastrophic events to support the continuity of City operations.
If you are motivated, dependable, and ready to make a meaningful impact in your community, we encourage you to apply and become part of a team committed to excellence in public service.
Job Description:
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES: -- Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Monitors and maintains assigned wells; verifies wells are operating correctly; checks chlorination levels.
  • Repairs water main breaks and service lines; flushes, repairs, and replaces fire hydrants; rebuilds and repairs water meters.
  • Performs service calls to check for water leaks throughout the water system; provides aid to customers;
  • Turns water services on or off at City connections when starting and closing accounts.
  • Collects monthly required bacteriological samples; delivers samples to assigned laboratory for testing.
  • Operates water treatment plant; calculates the chlorine demand of raw ground water for proper disinfection; monitors and maintains chlorination system.
  • Gathers water usage readings for monthly billing; disconnects customers' water for non-payment of utility bills.
  • Inspects and cleans groundwater storage tanks; prepares tanks for State inspections.
  • Repairs and pours concrete driveways and sidewalks.
  • This position is considered Critical Personnel during a natural or manmade disaster and/or a catastrophic event. This position may be required to provide services or perform duties for the benefit of the public and the continuity of City operations. These may include services or duties different from those performed in the usual course and scope of this position.
  • For purposes of business continuity, employees in this position are considered Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers, as defined by the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
  • Performs other duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education, Training and Experience Guidelines:
High school diploma or equivalent; AND two (2) years of water utility training and experience; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Knowledge of:
  • Department policies and procedures.
  • City codes and ordinances.
  • Water distribution and production systems.

Skill in:
  • Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
  • Providing quality customer service.
  • Performing basic mathematical calculations.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
  • Valid State Driver's License required; Class B Commercial Driver's License may be required.
  • Groundwater Treatment Plant Operator Class C license.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT: This position requires climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing and repetitive motions. Exerting in excess of 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or in excess of 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Employee may be subjected to moving mechanical parts, electrical currents, vibrations, fumes, odors, dusts, gases, poor ventilation, chemicals, oils, extreme temperatures, inadequate lighting, work space restrictions, and intense noises.
The City of Katy is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities and Amendments Act and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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