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Electric System Operator Trainee Jobs in Portland, OR

HR Annie Consulting

Technical Trainer

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$107K - $122K/yr

You're knowledgeable about operations in the electric utility sector and you enjoy working with subject matter experts, learning new systems and terminology, and building content that helps operators ...

PacifiCorp

ESM Operations Control Advisor

Portland, OR · On-site

... System Operator's (CAISO) Extended Day-Ahead Market (EDAM). ESM is responsible for serving ... Experience in a trading, transmission or market operations, or settlements role at an electric ...

Prime Electric

Senior BIM Coordinator

Milwaukie, OR · On-site

Who We Are Stoner Electric, a Prime Electric company, has been a leading commercial electric ... Knowledge of electrical systems, installations and code requirements pertaining to electrical ...

ConMet

Machine Operator

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$24.01/hr

As a Machine Operator you operate high pressure aluminum die cast machines to produce parts for use ... system of die. Preheats die sections with electric heater. * turn valves and sets dial to regulate ...

Consolidated Metco

Machine Operator

Clackamas, OR

$24.01/hr

As a Machine Operator you operate high pressure aluminum die cast machines to produce parts for use ... system of die. Preheats die sections with electric heater. * turn valves and sets dial to regulate ...

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All JobsElectric System Operator JobsElectric System Operator Trainee JobsElectric System Operator Trainee Jobs in Portland, OR

Electric System Operator Trainee information

See Portland, OR salary details

$37

$44

$50

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

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for electric system operator trainee in Portland, OR is $44.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.31 and $47.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 Portland, OR? For Electric System Operator Trainee jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Electric System Operator Trainee jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Electric System Operator Trainee jobs in Portland, OR are:
Electric System Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electric System Operator Trainee job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,345 per year, or $44.9 per hour.
Technical Trainer

Technical Trainer

HR Annie Consulting

Portland, OR • On-site, Remote

$107K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

Join a team creating best-in-class Power System Operations training, and support reliability across the West!

Western Power Pool is hiring a Technical Trainer to join our team!

Key Details:

  • Pay: $107,700 - $122,350/year DOE
  • Location: Remote in select states - must reside within the following areas: AZ, OR, WA, UT, NV, CA, WY, MT, ID, NM, CO, El Paso TX
  • Travel: Up to 8x per year to Portland, OR HQ
  • Schedule: Full-time, Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm PPT
  • Benefits: Employer-paid health, dental, vision, and life insurance; PTO; 11 paid holidays; company-funded Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA); 401k with 6% match; discretionary profit-sharing contribution, budgeted at 7% of salary; and flexible working schedule

Who You Are: You’re a strong communicator who can turn complex material into clear, engaging learning content. You may come from the power, utilities, or operations within the utility sector, with the ability and interest to train others. You’re knowledgeable about operations in the electric utility sector and you enjoy working with subject matter experts, learning new systems and terminology, and building content that helps operators do critical work with confidence. Plus, you’re excited to grow further in the energy space!

Minimum qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a STEM or related field preferred OR 1–2 years of equivalent experience in electric utility operations or a technical role requiring clear communication of complex information.
  • Ability to translate technical concepts into clear, practical instruction and collaborate with SMEs to validate content
  • Strong communication, and organizational skills
  • Comfort with or openness for on-camera delivery and public speaking for training purposes
  • Ability to work effectively in a virtual team environment, manage multiple projects, and learn quickly
  • Working knowledge of bulk electric system concepts
  • Willingness and ability to obtain NERC Certification

Preferred qualifications

  • 3 – 5 years’ experience in System Operations
  • Current NERC Certification
  • Ability to translate complex power system topics into clear, practical instruction
  • Exposure to WECC / NERC environments or related committee participation, such as WECC, NERC, or NATF
  • Technical writing, scripting, or instructional content development experience

Position Overview: We’re looking for a Technical Trainer to help create some of the best online Power System Operations training in the industry. In this role, you’ll work closely with our creative team and subject matter experts to develop courses that support system operators in maintaining NERC credentials and meeting PER-005 training requirements. If you’re someone who can translate complex technical concepts into clear, engaging learning, whether from a training, writing, or utility background, you’ll thrive here.

A typical day will consist of:

  • Working with Creative team to develop video productions and technical training courses
  • Developing technical scripts and interview questions for SMEs in related operations subjects
  • Implementing courses on our online platform including challenge and test questions, lesson plans and ILAs
  • Refining materials based on feedback, evolving operational practices, and changing industry standards
  • Monitoring NERC and WECC-related changes
  • Pitching in on light video-editing or production-related tasks as needed, with training provided
  • Working with Members of WPP in helping identify training needs

Who We Are: Western Power Pool (WPP) is a non-profit organization that helps keep the lights on by ensuring power utilities in the West achieve maximum benefits from coordinated operations. Our work is customer-driven, relationship-based, and collaborative.

We’ve been serving the energy sector for over 80 years and are at the forefront of ensuring the reliability and security of the power grid while spearheading the integration of renewable energy sources. As a leader in the energy sector, we manage power generation and transmission across multiple states, facilitate competitive energy markets, and foster innovation to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

To learn more, check out our website: https://www.westernpowerpool.org/

Western Power Pool is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are dedicated to creating an inclusive atmosphere for all employees.

Check us out on social media:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/western-power-pool/

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