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Electric Distribution System Operator Jobs in Georgia

A Distribution Systems Operator Engineer is a key position within the utility or energy sector ... Depending on the employer and location, certifications such as NERC (North American Electric ...

Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia Department of Transportation Flagging certification, must possess and maintain either a Georgia Water Distribution System Operator certification, or a ...

Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia Department of Transportation Flagging certification, must possess and maintain either a Georgia Water Distribution System Operator certification, or a ...

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Electric Distribution System Operator information

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$24

$43

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

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for electric distribution system operator in Georgia is $24.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $27.60 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 Georgia? For Electric Distribution System Operator jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Electric Distribution System Operator jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for Electric Distribution System Operator jobs in Georgia are:
Infographic showing various Electric Distribution System Operator job openings in Georgia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,609 per year, or $24.8 per hour.
System Operator Trainee

System Operator Trainee

Georgia System Operations Corporation

Tucker, GA โ€ข On-site

$70K - $88K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Under the supervision of the GSOC Power Delivery Training group and in conjunction with certified Transmission & Generation System Operators this journeyman position (with no authority to act independently) will be trained on the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to become a NERC Certified System Operator. Training will include a combination of classroom, field, online and control center exposure. The primary goal of the Trainee program will be to successfully prepare for and obtain NERC Certification.

After completing the Trainee program and successfully obtaining NERC Certification a Trainee will then begin an initial training program which upon completion enables them to enter into more advance training to support either Generation, Transmission, or both as a GSOC System Operator.

Completion of the Trainee role and obtaining NERC Certified System Operator will prepare Trainee to transition to progressive levels within the GSOC System Operator family of jobs. These positions, varying in required experience and level of complexity, have responsibility for the 24x7 real-time operation of the member owned transmission and generation system. System Operators write switching orders and issues clearances, work to restore customer outages in a safe and reliable manner and respond to alarms to maintain awareness of the system. System Operators work with neighboring utilities to schedule power into and out of the system as well as forecast system conditions and dispatch generation and transmission resources to maintain an economic and reliable balance of power on the system.

Job Duties:

  • Develop and demonstrate the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities required to obtain NERC System Operator Certification designation while simultaneously developing a deep understanding of the electric utility business and specifically GSOC's member owned model.
  • Work directly with Power Delivery Training and in conjunction with certified Transmission & Generation System Operators through classroom training, field visits to substations and generating plants to become fully versed in the system operations requirements for both the Transmission System Operator and Generation System Operator positions.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

Education: A high school diploma, GED or equivalent.

Experience: One to 3 years of work in a related field such as distribution operations, substation construction, relay maintenance or testing substation equipment, generation plant operations preferred.

Equivalent Experience: One to 3 years of technical training in a related field such as distribution operations, substation construction, relay maintenance or testing substation equipment, generation plant operations preferred.

Specialized Skills:

  • Required:
    • Must obtain and maintain Bulk Electric System Cyber Authorized Status as defined in GSOC's CIP Cyber Security Policy 301 and NERC Reliability Standard CIP 004 - Personnel Risk Assessment."
    • Ability to use Microsoft Office suite of products: Outlook, Word, Excel (Power Point a plus).
    • Must have sound decision making skills under stressful conditions.
    • Must be able to communicate effectively, both oral and written.
  • Desired - but can be trained:
    • AC/DC theory
    • Ability to read one-line diagrams.

Licenses/Certifications:

Must obtain a NERC System Operation Certification within six months after the Trainee's hire date. Management has the right to review and extend the time frame if needed on a case by case basis.

NERC System Operator Certifications accepted:

  • Reliability Coordinator Operators (RC)
  • Balancing, Interchange, and Transmissions (BT/BIT)
  • Transmission Operator (TO)

Physical Requirements: Some shift work will be assigned to gain a specific understanding of the requirements of 24x7 operations for the System Operation role for both transmission and balancing obligations.

Additional Information:

The System Operator Trainee is required to obtain NERC Certification through in-person instructions and on-line training. A NERC Certification test will be coordinated at least by month four of the training process. Subsequent tests, should they be required, will be scheduled at management's discretion. Obtaining NERC System Operator Certification is a requirement for successful completion of the Trainee program.

Rotating shift (including Days/Nights/Holidays) will be assigned during the training period and will be required of a successful candidate after completion of this training program.


Georgia System Operations Corporation is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, including veterans and disabled. We are a drug-free workplace. All applicants are subject to substance abuse testing.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro