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Distribution System Operator Jobs in San Jose, CA

Distribution Engineer

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$59.15 - $106.93/hr

Independently develop design and construction work packages for moderately complex electrical overhead and underground distribution systems operating from 4kV through 138kV, primarily associated with ...

Independently develop design and construction work packages for moderately complex electrical overhead and underground distribution systems operating from 4kV through 138kV mostly associated with ...

Distribution Engineer

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$59K - $106K/yr

Independently develop design and construction work packages for moderately complex electrical overhead and underground distribution systems operating from 4kV through 138kV mostly associated with ...

Independently develop design and construction work packages for moderately complex electrical overhead and underground distribution systems operating from 4kV through 138kV mostly associated with ...

Systems Engineer

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Think distributed systems are fun rather than frightening. * Get excited reading kernel commits, infrastructure blogs, or systems papers. * Have strong opinions about operating systems ...

Think distributed systems are fun rather than frightening. * Get excited reading kernel commits, infrastructure blogs, or systems papers. * Have strong opinions about operating systems ...

Design and implement distributed, event-driven systems with high scalability, availability, and ... Familiarity with Kubernetes operators, service meshes, and observability stacks (Grafana ...

Be oncall for a production system to help our customers if anything goes wrong. * Build out never ... You have 3+ years of experience building and operating distributed systems (flexible). * Ideally ...

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Distribution System Operator information

See San Jose, CA salary details

$15

$34

$60

How much do distribution system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution system operator in San Jose, CA is $34.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.34 and $38.32 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 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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Distribution System Operator jobs in San Jose, CA?

For Distribution System Operator jobs in San Jose, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Distribution System Operator jobs in San Jose, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Distribution System Operator jobs in San Jose, CA are:

What cities near San Jose, CA are hiring for Distribution System Operator jobs?

Cities near San Jose, CA with the most Distribution System Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Distribution System Operator job openings in San Jose, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,633 per year, or $34.4 per hour.

Utilities System Operator I

City of Pleasanton

Pleasanton, CA โ€ข On-site

$85K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support the operation and maintenance of the City's water, sewer, and storm drain systems.

  • Assist in the repair of water and sewer mains and water services, including tapping mains and installing pipe.

  • Check and maintain the daily operation of water or sewer pump stations and wells, and perform maintenance duties on pumps, motors, valves, meters, and related equipment.


Job description

The City of Pleasanton is excited to announce an opportunity for a dedicated individual to join our team as a Utilities System Operator I in the Public Works Department. In this role, you will support the operation and maintenance of the City's water, sewer, and storm drain systems. The Utilities System Operator I may rotate through water or sewer pump station crews, distribution or collections crews, and may assist in maintaining computerized SCADA control systems.

This is a dynamic, hands-on role that offers strong learning opportunities and the chance to contribute directly to essential public infrastructure and daily utility operations. We're Looking for Someone Who Is Hands-on and interested in learning the day-to-day operation of water distribution and sewer collection systems. Team-oriented, with the ability to work effectively as part of a crew or independently.

Customer service-minded, able to communicate effectively and courteously with supervisors, coworkers, and the public. Dependable, safety-conscious, and able to remain alert to hazards while working in the field and around equipment and chemicals. Positive, willing to learn, and ready to contribute to the City of Pleasanton team.

In This Role, You Will Assist in the repair of water and sewer mains and water services, including tapping mains and installing pipe. Check and maintain the daily operation of water or sewer pump stations and wells. Perform maintenance duties such as installing, lubricating, packing, replacing, and repairing pumps, motors, valves, meters, and related equipment.

Work with telemetry equipment and computerized controls used to monitor water and sewer systems, including SCADA-related systems. Operate and maintain trucks, backhoes, compressors, and other power equipment. Perform laboratory analysis on water and sewer samples.

Respond to customer inquiries and complaints regarding water quality, pressure problems, sewer backups, and leaks. Mark streets or ground surfaces to identify underground water and sewer pipes using maps and blueprints. Perform flushing duties on the water distribution system.

Assist with sewer inspection work using television pipeline inspection equipment, and help clean sewer stoppages using equipment such as a hydroflusher or vactor truck. Record readings on flow meters, PSI gauges, and other equipment routinely. This classification may rotate through 24 hour standby duty once adequate experienced is gained.

A Few Reasons You'll Love Working With Us Opportunity to work with a fast-growing team in a positive working environment. Strong opportunity to learn and build skills in utility system operations. Meaningful public service work supporting the City's essential water and sewer infrastructure.

Varied field assignments through rotating crew responsibilities, providing broad exposure to utility operations and maintenance. A Few Challenges You Might Face Learning a complex water distribution system with many pressure zones. Working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions and in construction-zone environments with dust and pollens.

Working safely around chemicals, manholes, pipes, high-voltage wires, high-pressure gas, and water and sewer mains. The Ideal Candidate Will Be Someone who brings a positive attitude to work every day and is willing and wanting to learn. Familiar with basic plumbing materials and procedures, pump and motor parts, valving, pump maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting.

Able to read and understand safety manuals, operating manuals, equipment manuals, work orders, complaint forms, maps, blueprints, and schematic diagrams. Able to communicate effectively, follow written and oral instructions, complete basic written forms, and use basic computer skills and two-way radio communication. For more information about the position, please refer to the job description by visiting the following link Utilities System Operator I Minimum Qualifications Education and Experience: Any equivalent combination of training and experience that would providethe knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform the essential dutiesof the job.

License: - Possession of a valid class C California driver's license. - State of California Grade I water distribution license is required. - State of California Grade I water treatment license is required within two years of hire.

- Grade I CWEA sewer collection certificate is highly desirable. - Obtain a Class A California Driver's License with Tanker Endorsement within one year from date of hire. Knowledge of: - Basic flow mechanics to calculate flows, volumes and dosages.

- Common safety procedures for working in confined or hazardous environments and for working with chemicals. - Pump and motor parts, valving and operation of pump maintenance, repairs and troubleshooting. - Basic plumbing materials and procedures.

Skill to: - Read and understand materials such as safety manuals, operating manuals, equipment manuals, work orders, and complaint forms. - Read and use basic blueprints, maps and schematic diagrams. - Communicate effectively and courteously with supervisors, co-workers and the public.

- Follow written and oral instructions. - Write legibly to fill out time cards, reports and forms and use basic English to complete simple forms. - Add, subtract, multiply and divide to calculate volumes and dose chemicals.

- Appropriately select and operate power tools for required work. - Independently lift and move materials weighing up to 65 pounds and with assistance up to 100 pounds. - Safely operate heavy equipment such as a backhoe, skip loader and crane.

- Perform physical labor throughout the workday, involving standing for extended periods of time, stooping, working in cramped areas and on uneven surfaces. - Work effectively as part of a crew or independently when necessary. - Remain alert and focused on duties and be conscious of potential hazards in order to maintain a safe working environment.

- Work safely with and around chemicals on a daily basis. - Possess basic computer skills. - Communicate effectively on a two-way radio system.

Recruitment Process Application: To be considered for this position, please submit your application through our online application process at www.cityofpleasantonca.gov. Click on "Job Opportunities". SELECTION PLAN Applicants will be informed via email with reasonable notice in advance of any examination process which will require their attendance

The following dates are tentative and subject to change based on the need of the Agency: TENTATIVE SELECTION PLAN Application Filing Deadline: 11:59 p.m. Monday, August 31, 2026 Review of Minimum Qualifications: Week of September 1, 2026 Panel Interview: Week of September 23, 2026 Department Finalist Interviews: To Be Determined.