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Electric Distribution System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ComEd

Dist System Operator I

Joliet, IL · On-site

Control and operate equipment on the primary electric distribution system. Respond to all ... Maintain operating log, interruption reports and associated records to accurately record system ...

Exelon

Dist System Operator I

Baltimore, MD · On-site

Control and operate equipment on the primary electric distribution system. Respond to all ... Maintain operating log, interruption reports and associated records to accurately record system ...

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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 the United States is $29.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $32.69 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.

More about Electric Distribution System Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Electric Distribution System Operator jobs? Cities with the most Electric Distribution System Operator job openings:
What states have the most Electric Distribution System Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Electric Distribution System Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Electric Distribution System Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Electric Distribution System Operator jobs are:
Electric Distribution System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electric Distribution System Operator job openings in the United States 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 $61,121 per year, or $29.4 per hour.
Distribution System Operator I

Distribution System Operator I

PPL Corporation

Simpsonville, KY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

PPL rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 50 rated energy and utility

Job description

Company Summary Statement
Louisville Gas and Electric Company and Kentucky Utilities Company, part of the PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL) family of companies, are regulated utilities that serve more than 1.3 million customers and have consistently ranked among the best companies for customer service in the United States. LG&E serves 334,000 natural gas and 433,000 electric customers in Louisville and 16 surrounding counties. KU serves 569,000 customers in 77 Kentucky counties and five counties in Virginia. LG&E and KU are major employers and active supporters of the communities they serve. They empower employees, community members and initiatives across their service territory through volunteerism and investments in organizations that support education, sustainability and wellbeing.
Overview
The purpose of this position is to act as System Operator of the LG&E-KU electrical distribution system. This position will effectively analyze trouble calls, determine trouble locations, direct, coordinate, and dispatch crews, and provide proper safety clearance to line or substation workers. Additionally, this position will determine line switching needed to respond to emergencies and/or provide safety clearance.
Responsibilities
• Plan, monitor, and maintain a safe operating environment for the LG&E-KU electrical distribution system. Evaluate and control the status of all distribution and substation equipment.
• Provide clearance to field personnel following the established Lock Out/Tag Out procedures to ensure safe working environment. Ensure that emergency and regular work crews maintain radio and/or telephone contact with Distribution Operations and receive proper clearance before energizing any line or circuits.
• Monitor distribution system loads, recommending load transfers between circuits and substations to avoid circuit overloads and phase unbalance.
• Employee will be responsible for remote control and update of SCADA devices (where applicable) and will work with field personnel in relaying SCADA information, respond to alarms when generated by SCADA, or notified by Transmission Control Center, and contact person(s) needed to correct these problems.
• Direct and coordinate efficient restoration of customers' electric service by using manual or computerized systems to analyze and prioritize probable outage locations and dispatch crews to those locations. Determine emergency switching sequences to isolate trouble and restore power.
• Employee responsible for being knowledgeable of customers on Medical Alert/Life Support and high priority customers and check the file when planned outages or before service is disrupted to customers. Responsible for making sure service is restored to these customers on priority basis in emergency situations.
• Performs other duties as assigned
• Complies with all policies and standards
Qualifications
Required Education
Associate's Degree in engineering/electrical technology, mathematics, or related technical discipline or High School Diplomaor GED and 2 years technical knowledge and proficiencies in the power industry, including electrical substations, line maintenance and/or generation
Required Experience
Must successfully complete the COBRA exam.
Preferred Qualifications
  • The ability to make decisions in emergency situations is critical.
  • Errors in judgement cannot occur where safety is concerned.
  • Stress levels peak and valley with the performance of the network, but the ability to remain calm and make good decisions during heavy outage situations is required.
  • Proficient in the operation of computer applications including word processing, spreadsheet applications, GIS, etc.

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