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Electric System Operator Trainee Jobs in Washington

SMECO is aggressively pursuing electrical engineers required to fill recent promotional vacancies, retirements, and new positions required to meet the demands of operating a robust electric system ...

Trainee Operator

Centreville, VA · On-site

$52K - $84K/yr

Trainee Operator | Grade 4 | $52,964 - $84,743 Open: August 17, 2026 Close: Open Until Filled *Two ... treatment systems, then take the next step in your career and apply today to be part of our ...

VMI Trainee

Laurel, MD · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

About Shepherd Electric Supply Since 1892, Shepherd Electric Supply has been the first call when ... The VMI Trainee is the foundation of that system. This role is the entry point into a structured ...

VMI Trainee

Laurel, MD · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

About Shepherd Electric Supply Since 1892, Shepherd Electric Supply has been the first call when ... The VMI Trainee is the foundation of that system. This role is the entry point into a structured ...

... operating results. • Oversees the appropriate resolution of employee and customer concerns ... as electric and manual hand jacks, floor scrubber and cardboard baler. • Ability to work in ...

... operating results. • Oversees the appropriate resolution of employee and customer concerns ... as electric and manual hand jacks, floor scrubber and cardboard baler. • Ability to work in ...

... operating results. • Oversees the appropriate resolution of employee and customer concerns ... as electric and manual hand jacks, floor scrubber and cardboard baler. • Ability to work in ...

... operating results. • Oversees the appropriate resolution of employee and customer concerns ... as electric and manual hand jacks, floor scrubber and cardboard baler. • Ability to work in ...

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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 popular job titles related to Electric System Operator Trainee jobs in Washington?

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

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

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

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

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

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

ENGINEER SYSTEM PROTECTION

SMECO

Hughesville, MD • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

US:MD:HUGHESVILLE
FULL TIME
Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative, Inc. - SMECO
Electrical System Protection and Control Engineer
Company Description
Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative, Inc. (SMECO), headquartered in Hughesville, Maryland, is a rapidly growing transmission and distribution cooperative with about 500 employees that serves over 175,000 consumers just south of Washington, D.C. SMECO has a peak load of almost 1000 MW, assets in excess of $1 billion, with over 400 miles of transmission lines serving 71 substations.
Positions Available
SMECO has opportunities for electrical engineers in our Transmission Department supporting engineering, construction, operations, and maintenance. SMECO is aggressively pursuing electrical engineers required to fill recent promotional vacancies, retirements, and new positions required to meet the demands of operating a robust electric system with innovation and technology.
SMECO is prepared to recruit all levels of experience including new engineering graduates. We have also been very successful at transitioning electrical engineers from other industries into the electric utility business.
Positions Description - Transmission
We are searching for electrical engineers to support our Transmission Engineering, Construction, Operations, and Maintenance needs:
System Protection and Control
Provides technical resource in the major functions of design, installation, testing and maintenance of SCADA system, 230kV transmission, 69kV sub-transmission, and substation protective relaying schemes. Prepares specifications for microprocessor based protective devices and controls for utilization in the electric system (LTC, protective relay, var controllers, etc.).
Develops procedures and assists with the testing and commissioning of protective relay systems and SCADA equipment for transmission, substation and distribution equipment. Test and Commissions local and communication-assisted differential, impedance, directional/non- directional overcurrent, sync-check, and voltage/frequency based protective relaying schemes for 230, 69, and 13 kV systems. Also prepares and checks settings for protective relaying devices and schemes.
Position Requirements
An engineering position candidate will have a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from an accredited program and be or able to become a registered Professional Engineer with experience in the Electric Utility industry. Specific experience in the electric utility industry is ideal but SMECO is prepared to recruit all levels of electrical engineering experience from other industries.
Position Advantage
SMECO is looking for qualified technical resources to focus on the investment, maintenance, and operations of the SMECO Electric System. We are looking for motivated electrical engineers ready to seize the opportunity to ensure SMECO is a technically strong Cooperative.
SMECO offers an excellent salary and benefit program as well as opportunities for advancement through responsibility and growth.