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Electric Distribution System Operator Jobs in New York

PSEG

District Operator in Training

Hicksville, NY · On-site

$56.94 - $68.45/hr

Under the general supervision of the NERC certified Principal and Lead System Operator, the District Operator is responsible for the safe, reliable and effective operation of the electric ...

LIPAPRD

District Operator in Training

Hicksville, NY · Hybrid

$19 - $23/hr

... of the electric transmission system of Long Island. District Operator in Training will assist in performing the following duties: Become familiar with the transmission system and substations ...

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Electric Distribution System Operator information

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$14

$32

$56

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

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for electric distribution system operator in New York is $32.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.65 and $35.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an electric distribution system operator?

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 New York? For Electric Distribution System Operator jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Electric Distribution System Operator jobs in New York look for? The top searched job categories for Electric Distribution System Operator jobs in New York are:
What cities in New York are hiring for Electric Distribution System Operator jobs? Cities in New York with the most Electric Distribution System Operator job openings:
Electric Distribution System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electric Distribution System Operator job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 5% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,868 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Distribution System Operator I - Holmdel, NJ

FirstEnergy

Holmdel, NJ

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago

FirstEnergy rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 72 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 53 rated energy and utility

Job description

About the Opportunity

This is an open position with Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L), a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp. [JCPL]

This position, located in Holmdel, NJ or Morristown, NJ, reports under the general supervision of the Regional Distribution Control Center staff. All candidates must live within a 45-minute commute time to the Holmdel or Morristown office. 

The estimated pay range for this role is $87,210 - $123,120.

Responsibilities include:

  • Monitoring the day-to-day operations of the regional distribution system
  • Demonstrating a solid commitment to all aspects of safety, including adherence to the Accident Prevention Handbook (APH) and Manual of Operations
  • Recommending operational improvements and communicating system events to appropriate personnel
  • Demonstrating sound internal and/or external customer service
  • Operating the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) Energy Management System (EMS), Automated Mapping/Facilities Management (GIS) computer system, PowerOn Outage Management System (OMS), Energy Delivery Outage Application (EDOA), DCC Notification System, as well as radio and telephone systems
  • Analyzing and acting promptly in cases of system disturbance so that the system can be restored to a normal configuration
  • Providing technical analysis, monitoring systems, scheduling and/or authorizing FirstEnergy distribution equipment outages and load transfers
  • Developing detailed scenarios to identify operating problems caused by contingency outages
  • Assigning and directing switching activities and work assignments to field personnel
  • Monitoring system and weather conditions
  • Coordinating staffing requirements by calling additional resources to handle emergencies
  • Completing training and development to progress to the Regional Distribution System Operator level
  • Possessing basic understanding of Bargaining Unit Agreements with field labor

Qualifications:

  • Associate's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering/Electrical Engineering Technology, or related certification from an accredited institution is required.
  • Or minimum of 2 - 4 years' related work experience will be considered. Related work experience includes work experiences with demonstrated understanding to operate the distribution system.
  • Pass the Edison Electric Institute (EEi) System Operator/Power Dispatching Test (SO/PD II)
  • Capable of effective performance in problem solving, multi-tasking and teamwork
  • Demonstrate effective performance in prioritizing work for efficient and safe operations
  • Knowledge of, or ability to learn Transmission and Distribution operation, maintenance and construction practices, procedures, work methods, materials, equipment and tools to operate the distribution system
  • Strong reading and comprehension skills to effectively interpret switching requests, engineering drawings, schematics, equipment instruction manuals, standards and procedures used to develop distribution switching orders
  • Possess skills in the development, collection, organization and analysis of information from a variety of sources to develop switching orders and recommendations
  • Strong oral and written communication skills to effectively communicate with customers, supervisors, peers, employees, and contractors involved with the construction, operation and maintenance of the Transmission and Distribution facilities
  • Demonstrate a questioning attitude to learn, produce results and develop relationships
  • Sufficient maturity to exercise independent judgment on moderately complex projects and assignments
  • Excellent interpersonal and analytical skills to make quick assessments and deliver well-thought decisions, when situations require
  • Knowledge of, or ability to learn, specific mainframe and computer applications
  • Able to remain professional in high stress, high volume work environment
  • Live within 45 minutes commute time
  • Willing to work rotating shifts and be available for overtime work when needed

EEI Testing

We administer selection tests for a variety of positions. The required tests have been developed by the Edison Electric Institute (EEI), a trade association of investor-owned electric utility companies. We strongly encourage potential employees to review all information, including the sample test brochures, and to use the available practice tests before taking the actual tests. Click this link to access the practice tests. You will be prompted for a name and password. Use firstenergy for both.

https://secure.eei.org/eeitests/onlineproducts/Login.aspx

Practice tests provide sample questions and detailed discussions of the correct answers. It's important to take the practice test as you would the actual one, with similar intensity and concentration. You must have Adobe Acrobat Reader on your computer.

Note: EEI website does not allow access to actual tests. Testing is held at various locations throughout our service territory based on where the job is located.

Benefits, Compensation & Workforce Diversity
At FirstEnergy, employees are key to our success. We depend on their talents to meet the challenges of our changing business environment. We are committed to rewarding individual and team efforts through our total rewards philosophy which includes competitive pay plus incentive compensation, a company-sponsored pension plan, 401(k) savings plan with matching employer contribution, a choice of medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, and life insurance programs, as well as skills development training with tuition reimbursement. Please visit our website at www.firstenergycorp.com to learn more about all of our employee rewards programs. FirstEnergy proudly supports workforce diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability. No recruiters or agencies without a previously signed contract. Unable to sponsor or transfer H-1B visas at this time.
Safety
Safety is a core value for FirstEnergy and is essential to all of our business activities. We ensure employees have the tools, information, and processes to perform their duties in a manner that assures safety for themselves, their co-workers, our customers and the public. Our goals are to provide a safe work environment, to maintain an accident-free, injury-free workplace, and to promote and maintain public safety. To meet these goals, we dedicate ourselves to achieving world-class safety standards.
 

FirstEnergy Human Resources Team

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