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Electric Distribution System Operator Jobs in Colorado

Staker/Designer IV

Durango, CO · On-site

$37 - $51/hr

Lead the design and execution of highly complex and large-scale overhead and underground electric distribution projects, including system expansions, reliability programs, and infrastructure ...

Summary Perform the duties of lineman classification involving overhead and underground electric distribution systems. Special Instructions: 1. The successful candidate must have the physical ability ...

Staker/Designer III

Durango, CO · On-site

$33 - $44/hr

This senior-level role independently leads highly complex design and field staking activities for overhead and underground electric distribution systems supporting multiple utility clients. The ...

Summary Perform the duties of lineman classification involving overhead and underground electric distribution systems. Special Instructions: 1. The successful candidate must have the physical ability ...

DER Operations Coordinator

Loveland, CO · On-site

$36.60 - $49.41/hr

Develop working knowledge of Loveland's electric distribution system, including substations, feeders, load growth trends, and areas requiring congestion relief or capacity support. * Identify feeders ...

... electric distribution for power delivery systems, gas distribution construction for gas systems ... Job Summary The UGE Operator is responsible for operating the machines required to install the ...

DER Operations Coordinator

Loveland, CO · Hybrid

$36.60 - $49.41/hr

Develop working knowledge of Loveland's electric distribution system, including substations, feeders, load growth trends, and areas requiring congestion relief or capacity support. * Identify feeders ...

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Electric Distribution System Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$13

$30

$54

How much do electric distribution system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for electric distribution system operator in Colorado is $30.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.74 and $34.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Electric Distribution System Operators?

Electric Distribution System Operators are professionals responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining the electrical distribution grid. They ensure the safe and reliable delivery of electricity from substations to homes and businesses, responding to outages and system disturbances. Their duties include coordinating repairs, managing load distribution, and working with field crews to restore power during emergencies. These operators play a crucial role in minimizing service interruptions and maintaining power quality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Electric Distribution System Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Electric Distribution System Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, grid operations, and safety regulations, typically supported by a technical degree or relevant industry experience. Familiarity with SCADA systems, outage management software, and NERC certification are commonly required for effective system monitoring and control. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and clear communication skills help operators swiftly address issues and coordinate with field crews. These skills are crucial to ensure reliable power delivery, minimize service interruptions, and maintain public and worker safety.

What are the most common challenges faced by Electric Distribution System Operators, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Electric Distribution System Operators frequently encounter challenges such as responding to unexpected outages, managing high-stress situations during severe weather events, and balancing multiple system demands in real time. New hires can prepare by developing strong problem-solving skills, becoming familiar with grid management software, and staying up to date with safety protocols and operational procedures. Collaborative teamwork and clear communication with field crews and engineers are also essential, as operators must coordinate efforts to restore service quickly and safely.

What is the difference between Electric Distribution System Operator vs Electric Transmission System Operator?

AspectElectric Distribution System OperatorElectric Transmission System Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with certifications in distribution system operationsRequires similar certifications, often with additional training in high-voltage transmission
Work EnvironmentManages local distribution networks, working in substations and control centersOversees high-voltage transmission lines, often in centralized control rooms
Employer & Industry UsageUtilities, municipal power providers, and energy companiesRegional and national grid operators, utility companies

The main difference is that Electric Distribution System Operators focus on local, lower-voltage distribution networks, ensuring reliable delivery of electricity to consumers. In contrast, Electric Transmission System Operators manage high-voltage transmission lines that transport electricity over long distances. Both roles require specialized certifications and work in control centers, but they operate at different levels of the power grid.

What are popular job titles related to Electric Distribution System Operator jobs in Colorado? For Electric Distribution System Operator jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Electric Distribution System Operator jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Electric Distribution System Operator jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Electric Distribution System Operator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Electric Distribution System Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Electric Distribution System Operator job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,269 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

Senior Engineer - Underground Electric Transmission

Qualus

Lakewood, CO

$107K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 hours ago


Job description

Position Overview

Power your future with Qualus in our Engineering Department as a Senior Engineer of Underground Electric Transmission. Your role will be responsible for implementing best design practices, identifying relevant trainings, coordinating project workflows, supporting business development opportunities and maintaining good relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Assignments will include providing technical guidance to the underground electric distribution design team and supporting established organization objectives.  

Responsibilities
  • Provide QA/QC execution and tracking
  • Supports development of design & engineering best practice methods and adherence tracking, specific to clients served
  • Understand and implement client and industry standards
  • Maintain knowledge of developments in industry codes and regulations
  • Maintain existing client relationships and seek new opportunities in existing contracts
  • Support organizational growth objectives
  • Support management of project scopes, budgets, and schedules
  • Support proposal writing and/or coordination
  • Support invoicing review and obtaining appropriate approvals 
  • Support project execution within terms and conditions of contract
  • Ensure continuous improvement in process and cost-efficiency
  • Ability to analyze problems and develop effective solutions at both strategic and functional levels
  • Work independently with minimal direction as a highly motivated self-starter
Qualifications
  • Ideal candidates will possess a strong understanding of electric design principles demonstrate the ability to apply that knowledge and experience to all aspects of operations.
  • Bachelor's degree from an ABET accredited school in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering or related field
  • 5-10+ years of electric transmission and distribution engineering and design experience for public utilities
  • Knowledge of engineering and design for service line, including Pull Planner, Voltage Drop & Flicker, O-CALC, Autodesk software suite, Power Line Systems software suite
  • Deep understanding of electric distribution material design, permitting requirements and calculations
  • Ability to interpret construction documents to compile relevant information for distribution designs
  • Knowledge of other applicable design software
  • Knowledge of design principles and practices, including computer applications
  • Knowledge of field techniques for construction
  • Knowledge of safe working practices
  • Knowledge of project management practices
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
  • Action-mindset: Ability to move from thinking about something to doing it
  • Strong team player: Accomplish tasks by working with others and recognizing how decisions may impact the team and have a willingness to seek input from others
  • Time Management: Ability to successfully plan and accomplish tasks within an established timeline
  • Computer proficiency in operating a personal computer and standard business office applications including Microsoft Office and other related applications
  • Professional Engineering (PE) License or the ability to obtain license
  • Must possess a valid driver's license

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Benefits & Compensation

Qualus benefits offered include Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short and Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays, for those who qualify.

The final salary awarded for this role may vary from the above range based on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs. The salary range provided in this job posting may be subject to change for business purposes.

Company Overview

Qualus is a leading pure-play power solutions firm and innovator at the forefront of power infrastructure transformation, with differentiated capabilities across grid modernization, resiliency, security, and sustainability. The firm partners with utilities, commercial, industrial, data center, and government clients, and renewable and energy storage developers, offering comprehensive solutions through boutique and integrated advisory, planning, engineering, digital solutions, program management, and specialized field services. Qualus also provides software and technology enabled services and develops breakthrough solutions for critical power industry challenges such as distributed and variable resource integration, emergency management, and secure data exchange. The firm has over 1,800 professionals, with offices throughout the U.S. and Canada.

EEO

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. We are committed to providing an inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on any grounds protected by applicable human rights legislation across Canada and the US.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME