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Distribution System Operator Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Leidos

Distribution Design Engineer

King Of Prussia, PA · On-site

$50K - $91K/yr

Design and construction work package development of electrical overhead and underground distribution systems (operating from 4kV through 138kV), mostly associated with programmatic work such as ...

Leidos

Distribution Design Engineer

King Of Prussia, PA · Hybrid

$50K - $91K/yr

Design and construction work package development of electrical overhead and underground distribution systems (operating from 4kV through 138kV), mostly associated with programmatic work such as ...

Veolia

Plant Operator/Maintenance

Wilmington, DE · On-site

Monitor and operate two surface water treatment plants and all other operating facilities within the distribution system utilizing the SCADA system. Assume responsibility for manual water treatment ...

Aquaamerica

Field Supervisor III

Willow Grove, PA · On-site

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... Assign staff to perform flushing of the distribution system as determined by other Departments and ...

OmniCable

Distribution Center Lead

West Chester, PA · On-site

... day and the facility is operating as required. Omni Cable has twelve Distribution Centers ... Prior use of RF technology/ computerized WMS systems required. * Requires high energy ...

Leidos

Distribution Engineer

Trenton, NJ

$59K - $106K/yr

Develop work packages for OH, UG, URD, and Make Ready, using customer GIS and WMS systems such as ... Our Power Delivery Services Team is the go-to for utilities and mobile operators who need reliable ...

Leidos

Distribution Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

Develop work packages for OH, UG, URD, and Make Ready, using customer GIS and WMS systems such as ... Our Power Delivery Services Team is the go-to for utilities and mobile operators who need reliable ...

Leidos

Distribution Engineer

King Of Prussia, PA

$59K - $106K/yr

Develop work packages for OH, UG, URD, and Make Ready, using customer GIS and WMS systems such as ... Our Power Delivery Services Team is the go-to for utilities and mobile operators who need reliable ...

Leidos

Distribution Engineer

Trenton, NJ · On-site

Develop work packages for OH, UG, URD, and Make Ready, using customer GIS and WMS systems such as ... Our Power Delivery Services Team is the go-to for utilities and mobile operators who need reliable ...

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All JobsDistribution System Operator JobsDistribution System Operator Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Distribution System Operator information

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How much do distribution system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution system operator in Philadelphia, PA is $29.65, 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 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 Philadelphia, PA? For Distribution System Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Distribution System Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Distribution System Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Distribution System Operator jobs? Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Distribution System Operator job openings:
Distribution System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Distribution System Operator job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,676 per year, or $29.7 per hour.
Distribution Design Engineer

Distribution Design Engineer

Leidos

King Of Prussia, PA • On-site

$50K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 428 rated business services

Job description

Leidos is seeking Distribution Engineers for our Eastern Pennyslvania workload. This will be a fully remote position to start with the expectation of when an office is open in the King of Prussia area, the candidate will be in office on a hybrid schedule.
The successful candidate will have an interest in developing construction work packages for the electric distribution system using various software systems and construction standards. Distribution systems may be in an OH, UG, or URD environment.
Project work may include joint use make ready, and storm hardening projects. Work packages will be developed using Electric Facilities Database (EFD), Computer Aided Design (CAD) tools, Work Management Systems (WMS), and other client systems. Project work will require performing engineering calculations that may include: structural analysis of poles, guying, cable pulling, electric demand, fault currents, and coordination of protective devices.
Assignments may also include: preparing forestry trimming requests, facilitating permit and Right-of-Way acquisition, development of a BOM, estimating costs, and customer advocacy such as acquiring easements or calculating a customer Contribution in Aid of Construction (CIAC).
Distribution Designer Responsibilities:
  • Design and construction work package development of electrical overhead and underground distribution systems (operating from 4kV through 138kV), mostly associated with programmatic work such as overloaded transformers, inspection and maintenance, joint use, and inspection reports.
  • Comply with quality control and safe work practices and maintain compliance with project scope, schedule and budget.

Distribution Designer Required Education & Experience:
  • Level 1 - Associate Distribution Designer: BS degree with 0-1 years of experience or BA or AS degree with 2 years relevant experience or HS diploma + 6 years of experience
  • Level 2 - Distribution Designer: BS degree + 2 years relevant experience OR BA degree or AS degree + 4 years relevant experience OR MS degree + 2 years relevant experience OR HS diploma + 8 years relevant experience

Distribution Designer Requirements for all levels:
  • Experience with ESRI, AutoCAD 3D, Civil 3D, PLS-CADD, MicroStation, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a plus
  • Familiarity with Pole Loading software ( O-Calc, SPIDA Calc, Pole Foreman) and SAP
  • Proven ability to communicate with clients and project teams
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Experience with projects in distribution design: using medium voltage switchgear, voltage conversion projects, distribution automation projects
  • Experience with development of civil & electrical packages associated with complex cable/conduit in dense urban environments

No two career paths will ever look the same. At Leidos, we know the most talented and diverse engineering professionals will always have a multitude of career choices; your time at Leidos will be a wise investment in your career and in yourself.
Protect yourself and your family with the benefits of working for a world-class employer. When you join Leidos, you join a Fortune 500 company and one of Ethisphere Institute's "World's Most Ethical Companies."
Successful candidates can look forward to a fast paced, diverse work environment and flexible work hours/work arrangements as well as managers who will encourage career development and growth including:
  • Engineer in Training Certificate (EIT)
  • Professional Engineer License (PE)
  • Project Management Professional (PMP)
  • Leadership training
  • Management opportunities

In this role, you can also expect to gain experience / expertise in:
  • NESC
  • Structural Pole Modeling
  • Electrical Power Calculations
  • GIS design
  • Project management
  • Financial management

PDSDLINE
PowerDelivery
If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
April 28, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $50,700.00 - $91,650.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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