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Electric System Operator Trainee Jobs in California

Electrical Trainee

Palm Desert, CA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Requirements:** - Knowledge of industrial electrical systems and practices - Familiarity with low ... Electric, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to ...

Electrical Trainee

Palm Desert, CA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Requirements:** - Knowledge of industrial electrical systems and practices - Familiarity with low ... Electric, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to ...

... Mayer, Talley and Platt Electric Supply. In addition to an online store, Rexel USA has a ... Learn and become proficient in the computer tools and systems used in day-to-day operations * Works ...

... Mayer, Talley and Platt Electric Supply. In addition to an online store, Rexel USA has a ... Learn and become proficient in the computer tools and systems used in day-to-day operations * Works ...

Showing results 41-60

Electric System Operator Trainee information

What does an electric system operator trainee do?

An Electric System Operator Trainee learns to monitor, control, and coordinate the generation and distribution of electricity across a power grid. They receive on-the-job training to understand grid operations, respond to system emergencies, and ensure a reliable supply of electricity. Trainees work closely with experienced operators, learning to use specialized software and tools, and must follow strict safety and regulatory procedures. Over time, they gain the expertise needed to become fully qualified Electric System Operators.

What are some common challenges faced by electric system operator trainees during their initial training period?

Electric System Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as mastering complex electrical grid concepts, adapting to shift work (including nights and weekends), and learning to make quick, high-stakes decisions under pressure. Trainees must become proficient with specialized software and real-time monitoring tools, while also developing effective communication skills for coordinating with field crews and other operators. Support and mentorship from experienced operators are essential, and a strong commitment to ongoing learning helps trainees succeed as they move toward full operator status.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an electric system operator trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Electric System Operator Trainee, you need a strong understanding of electrical systems, grid operations, and safety protocols, typically supported by a technical degree or relevant coursework. Familiarity with SCADA systems, energy management software, and NERC certification requirements is often necessary. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure reliable grid operation, quick decision-making during emergencies, and compliance with industry regulations.

What is the difference between Electric System Operator Trainee vs Electric System Operator?

AspectElectric System Operator TraineeElectric System Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer post-secondary education in related fieldsRequires additional certifications, licenses, or training, such as system operator certification
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, often supervised, with exposure to control rooms and field sitesFull responsibility for monitoring and controlling electrical grid operations in control centers
Industry UsageEntry-level position for training and development within utility companiesFully qualified role with operational authority in power grid management

The main difference between an Electric System Operator Trainee and an Electric System Operator is the level of responsibility and certification. Trainees are in training, gaining experience and knowledge, while Electric System Operators are fully qualified professionals responsible for real-time grid management.

What are the most commonly searched types of Electric System Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Electric System Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Electric System Operator Trainee jobs in California?

For Electric System Operator Trainee jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Electric System Operator Trainee jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Electric System Operator Trainee jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Electric System Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in California with the most Electric System Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Electric System Operator Trainee job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION MECHANIC (3879) (REVISED 5/21/26)

City of Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA

$130K - $215K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


City Of Los Angeles rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

96th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

DUTIES ANNUAL SALARY For trainee positions: $130,604 to $167,916; and $136,972 to $176,101 For journey-level positions: $195,666 (flat-rated); $204,874 (flat-rated); and; $215,335 (flat-rated) NOTES: Candidates from the eligible list are normally appointed to vacancies in the lower pay grade positions. Annual salary is at the start of the pay range. The current salary range is subject to change.

Please confirm the starting salary with the hiring department before accepting a job offer. For information regarding reciprocity between the City of Los Angeles departments and LADWP, go to http://per.lacity.org/Reciprocity_CityDepts_and_DWP.pdf. An entry-level Electric Distribution Mechanic works as a trainee under close supervision of journey-level workers

Trainees receive extensive classroom training as well as on the job training as a cable splicer and as a line mechanic. Electric Distribution Mechanic trainees assist in the construction, maintenance and repair of overhead electric power sub-transmission and distribution lines and equipment; constructs high-voltage distribution pole lines; makes construction changes to existing lines and equipment; repairs power lines and line equipment; repairs and reroutes services; sets poles; installs transformer racks; hangs and installs transformers and switches of various types and sizes; installs overhead street lights and guy wires; makes repairs to energized lines; performs limited line clearance tree trimming; installs watt-hour meters; uses appropriate live line tools to install and remove approved protective covering on energized distribution and sub-transmission circuits of 7.5kV and above; and climbs poles. Electric Distribution Mechanic trainees assist in the construction, maintenance, and repair of underground electric power, transmission, sub-transmission, and distribution cable work

Performs work activities in connection with underground cable installation and removal; pulls cables and service lines through sub-structures, vaults, duct lines, up poles and walls, over roofs of buildings and to customers' service panels; performs rigging operations of cable pulling equipment; installs and removes transformers and related equipment in vaults and sub-structures; splices energized and de-energized low-voltage cables, splices high voltage de-energized cables; maintains gas and oil filled cable and equipment; installs watt hour meters; and climbs poles as related to underground work. A journey-level Electric Distribution Mechanic performs skilled mechanical and electrical work in connection with the construction, maintenance, and repair of energized and/or de-energized overhead and underground electric transmission, subtransmission, distribution, communication, and utilitarian street light lines, cables, and equipment; and may work as a mentor over a group of skilled craft workers. REQUIREMENT(S)/MINIMUM QUALIFICATION(S) 1.

Completion of an apprenticeship program sanctioned by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) national organization in conjunction with the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), and possession of a valid journey-level line worker card issued by IBEW; or 2. A pole climbing proficiency certificate issued by an accredited lineman's college or by the Department of Water and Power, Power System Safety and Training, or completion of a recognized Advanced Training Pole Climbing program while in the United States military; and one of the following: a. Six months of full-time paid experience assisting or working on an overhead and/or underground Electrical Distribution or Transmission Construction, Maintenance, or Electric Trouble crew and assisting with and/or performing high-voltage line work in and on high-voltage power poles, transmission towers, and underground electric substructures.

Six months experience must be specific to assisting with and/or performing work at voltages of 4.16-kV and above; or b. Six months of full-time experience performing electrical work on equipment and circuits in the maintenance or construction of electrical distribution systems while in the United States military; or c. Eighteen months of full-time paid experience performing line clearance tree trimming; or d

Eighteen months of full-time paid training and experience chipping around energized 4.8-kV and 34.5-kV electrical conduit systems; or 3. Certificate of completion of the Electrical Lineman Program from Northwest Lineman College; or 4. Certificate of completion of the Powerline Mechanic-Trainee Program from the Los Angeles Trade Technical College

PROCESS NOTES All Electric Distribution Mechanics are required to drive commercial vehicles. Electric Distribution Mechanic (EDM) - Journey-Level California Residents and In-State Applicants: As a condition of employment, a valid Class A driver's license issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), along with a valid medical certificate approved by the DMV, is required at the time of appointment. Out-of-State Applicants: A valid commercial driver's license issued by a comparable state DMV, an official driving history record, and a valid medical certificate approved by the respective state DMV are required at the time of appointment.

As a condition of employment, a valid Class A driver's license issued by the California DMV must be obtained within three months of appointment. EDM in Training (Trainee) All applicants (California Residents, In-State, and Out-of-State): As a condition of employment, a valid Class C driver's license issued by the California DMV (or comparable state issued driver's license) and an official driving history record are required at the time of appointment. Appointed trainees are given six months from the start of the temporary training program to obtain a valid Class A driver's license issued by the California DMV.

Disqualification: Applicants will be disqualified or deemed ineligible for hire if their DMV record reflects three or more moving violations and/or at-fault accidents, or a conviction of a major moving violation (such as a DUI or DWI) within the last 36 months in any state or jurisdiction. The City of Los Angeles reserves the right to issue a notice of disqualification or ineligibility at any time before a final job offer is extended. All entry-level positions in this class are temporary training positions as defined in Civil Service Commission Rule 5.30

Trainees receive extensive classroom training as well as on-the-job training as a cable splicer and as a line mechanic. An Electric Distribution Mechanic must successfully complete an extensive on-the-job and classroom training program in order to receive an appointment to a regular Electric Distribution Mechanic position. It is anticipated that the training period will last up to 54 months.

Applicants filing under Requirement #1 must submit an Apprenticeship Certificate at the time of filing. The certificate must be attached to the on-line application BEFORE the application is submitted. If the certificate is attached AFTER the on-line application has been submitted, it will not be available to the City and applicants WILL NOT be credited with having submitted the certificate.

Applicants who fail to submit the certificate at the time of filing by attaching it to the on-line application will not be considered further in this examination. Applicants filing under Requirement #1 must submit proof of having a journey-level line worker card, such as an IBEW official receipt indicating the trade classification, at the time of filing. A copy of this proof must be attached to the on-line application BEFORE the application is submitted.

If it is attached AFTER the on-line application has been submitted, it will not be available to the City and the applicant WILL NOT be credited with having submitted it. Applicants who fail to submit proof at the time of filing by attaching it to the on-line application will not be considered further in this examination. Applicants filing under Requirement #1 may be considered for direct appointment to a regular (journey-level) Electric Distribution Mechanic position and may waive the multiple-choice test but must achieve a passing score on the performance test to be placed on the eligible list.

All other applicants must achieve a passing score on the qualifying multiple-choice test to be scheduled for the performance test. Applicants filing under Requirement #2 must submit a copy of their pole climbing proficiency certificate at the time of filing. A copy of the certificate must be attached to the on-line application BEFORE the application is submitted.

If the certificate is attached AFTER the on-line application has been submitted, it will not be available to the City and the applicant WILL NOT be credited with submitting it. Applicants who fail to submit the certificate at the time of filing by attaching it to the on-line application will not be considered further in this examination. Applicants filing under Requirement #3 or #4 must submit a copy of their certificate of completion at the time of filing.

A copy of the certificate must be attached to the on-line application BEFORE the application is submitted. If the certificate is attached AFTER the on-line application has been submitted, it will not be available to the City and the applicant WILL NOT be credited with submitting it. Applicants who fail to submit the certificate at the time of filing by attaching it to the on-line application will not be considered further in this examination.

Active United States Military personnel may file for this examination; however, they cannot be appointed until they have completed their military service and have been discharged with satisfactory performance. Proof of military service and satisfactory performance must be provided prior to appointment. Applicants filing under Requirement #2b must submit at the time of filing their application a copy of their DD-214 or a copy of their military identification indicating an End of Active Obligated Service (EAOS) date within six months from the application date.

The copy of the DD-214 or military identification with EAOS must be attached to the on-line application BEFORE the application is submitted. If the copy is attached AFTER the on-line application has been submitted, it will not be available to the City and applicants WILL NOT be credited with having submitted it. Applicants who fail to submit the DD-214 or military identification with EAOS at the time of filing by attaching it to the on-line application will not be considered further in this examination.

An Electric Distribution Mechanic is required to utilize various tools and equipment while working in the confined area of an underground vault. Electric Distribution Mechanics are required to climb power poles and utilize various tools and equipment at the top of a pole. SELECTIVE CERTIFICATION In accordance with Charter Section 1010 (b) and Civil Service Rule 5.31, selective certification will be used for some positions that require special skills and/or training in one or more of the following areas

Only persons possessing the following at the time of filing may be considered for appointments to fill such positions. Possession of a certificate of completion of an International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) accredited line worker training program and a valid journey-level line worker card issued by IBEW. Applicants must attach a copy of the certificate of completion and valid journey-level line worker card to the on-line application at the time of filing.

The certificate of completion and valid journey-level line worker card must be attached to the on-line application BEFORE the application is submitted. If the documents are attached AFTER the on-line application has been submitted, they will not be available to the City and applicants WILL NOT be credited with having submitted the documents. Applicants who fail to submit the documents at the time of filing by not attaching it to the on-line application will not be considered for this part of selective certification.

WHERE TO APPLY & APPLICATION DEADLINE Applications will only be accepted on-line. When you are viewing the on-line bulletin of your choice, simply scroll to the top of the page and select the "Apply"; icon. Applicants who are applying under Requirement #1 may access the on-line job bulletin at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lacity/jobs/3881548/electric-distribution-mechanic-3879-journey-level-revised-5-21-26?keywords=3879&pagetype=transferJobs This bulletin is only for candidates who will submit a copy of their certificate of completion of an International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) accredited line worker training program and journey-level line worker card at the time of filing

Entry-level applicants who are applying under Requirement #2, #3, or #4 may access the on-line job bulletin at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lacity/jobs/4642828/electric-distribution-mechanic-e-3879-trainee-revised-5-21-25?keywords=3879&pagetype=transferJobs This bulletin is only for candidates who will not be submitting their journey-level line worker card at the time of filing. NOTE: Applicants are urged to apply early to ensure you have time to resolve any technical issues you may encounter if you apply on-line. APPLICATION DEADLINE This examination may close without prior notice at any time after a sufficient number of applications have been received

For administrative purposes, filing may close periodically and reopen the following day. In accordance with Civil Service Rule 4.2, all applicants who apply may not be tested in this examination. To meet anticipated hiring needs, only a limited number of qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the selection process in the following order: 1) Applicants currently employed by the City of Los Angeles who meet the minimum requirements, or are on a reserve list; 2) Remaining applicants who meet the minimum requirements in sufficient numbers to meet hiring needs based on a random sampling of those qualified candidates

Applicants not selected to be tested may re-apply in a subsequent filing period in order to be considered for that period's selection process. SELECTION PROCESS After meeting minimum qualifications, candidates filing under Requirement #2, #3, or #4 will be scheduled for the following two tests and candidates filing under Requirement #1 will be scheduled for the Performance Test only: Examination Weight: Multiple-Choice Test - Qualifying Performance Test - 100% In the qualifying multiple-choice test, which will be administered and proctored on-line candidates may be examined for knowledge of: basic physical principles related to the operation of mechanical de...


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