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Electric System Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Primary Purpose PRIMARY PURPOSE OF POSITION Operates the electric system, under the immediate supervision of the Shift Manager, Sr. Transmission System Operator and Transmission System Operator II, ...

This includes responding to or initiating, operating instructions to and from other bulk electric system operating entities and documenting system events appropriately. The System Operator II has the ...

Monitors electric distribution system operating parameters, controls distribution system voltage and conducts distribution system operation and other related operating duties during assigned shift.

Transmission System Operator

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$50 - $55/hr

... the Bulk Electric System, during both normal and emergency conditions - Perform critical ... Operator and NERC Transmission Operator/Reliability Coordinator certifications - Maintains ...

Transmission System Operator - P

Akron, OH ยท On-site

$18 - $21.75/hr

System Operators prepare and coordinate switching procedures for routine and emergency work on the electric system and communicate this information to field crews. Entry level Transmission System ...

Transmission System Operator - P

Akron, OH ยท On-site

$18 - $21.75/hr

System Operators prepare and coordinate switching procedures for routine and emergency work on the electric system and communicate this information to field crews. Entry level Transmission System ...

Transmission System Operator - P

Akron, OH ยท On-site

$18 - $21.75/hr

System Operators prepare and coordinate switching procedures for routine and emergency work on the electric system and communicate this information to field crews. Entry level Transmission System ...

Transmission System Operator - P

Akron, OH ยท On-site

$18 - $21.75/hr

System Operators prepare and coordinate switching procedures for routine and emergency work on the electric system and communicate this information to field crews. Entry level Transmission System ...

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Electric System Operator Trainee information

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$35

$42

$47

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

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for electric system operator trainee in the United States is $42.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.90 and $45.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

More about Electric System Operator Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Electric System Operator Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Electric System Operator Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Electric System Operator jobs? The most popular types of Electric System Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Electric System Operator Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Electric System Operator Trainee jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Electric System Operator Trainee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Electric System Operator Trainee jobs are:
Infographic showing various Electric System Operator Trainee job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,020 per year, or $42.3 per hour.
System Operator

Full-time

PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Independently manages, to best serve the members' uniquely complex requirements, the real time operation of owned /contracted generation facilities in excess of 6500 MW along with purchases to meet the needs of the members as scheduled by the 5 different Purchase Selling Entities. Manages water and fuel consumption at the Pumped storage facility and the fossil plants to ensure an adequate supply of generation. Independently nominates fuel for the 24 gas fired units totaling 4200 MW capacity. Must make hourly economic dispatch decisions with less than 15 minutes' notice. Must respond to calls on assets of up to 1000 MW with 20 minutes' notice. Regulates system resources to accommodate Independent Power Producers' generation to meet schedules and other contractual obligations. Meets requirements imposed by NERC standards and contracts, such as CPS 2 and Joint Contingency Reserves events. This includes responding to or initiating, operating instructions to and from other bulk electric system operating entities and documenting system events appropriately. The System Operator II has the responsibility and the authority to take any required action up to and including shedding firm native load to preserve system or Interconnection reliability. Incumbent must be proficient at all Generation Coordinator positions in the Energy Control Center. Provides on-the-job direction and training to Generation Coordinators I & II. This position performs duties that can determine GSOC's compliance with NERC reliability standards.

Job Duties:

  • Independently commits and de-commits generation to continuously match the most economic resources to system needs, reserve requirements and changing conditions. Adjusts voltage and megawatt output to ensure that dynamically imposed ITS limitations are managed effectively to maintain the integrity and security of the ITS bulk power system. Nominates fuel for gas resources which can total as much as $5,000,000.00 per day and when necessary, purchases fuel for gas resources. Independently operates gas fired resources to meet constraints imposed by Operational Flow Orders issued by gas transportation systems.
  • Independently manages GTC's ownership of the ITS interface to insure available capacity and interface entitlements are utilized to their fullest extent by contracted member agents and third parties. Schedules and coordinates interchange transactions with other utilities, power marketers, control areas, and transmission providers. Monitors use of OASIS reservations shared by 5 agents to prevent overscheduling of interfaces and the resultant degradation of system reliability. Maintains up to date Available Transfer Capability ratings to allow maximum third party usage of GTC transmission to provide the highest earnings to GTC and its members while complying with all FERC regulations.
  • Independently maintains and enhances system stability and capability by monitoring and responding to load forecast errors, loss of generation, lack of VAR support, etc. by performing contingency planning and initiating corrective actions. This includes the authority to shed firm system load to preserve the integrity and stability of the Eastern Interconnection. Other actions include declaring OPC system alerts based on deteriorating system conditions and responding to SERC/NERC regional system alerts.
  • Plans for customer energy needs, based on usage profiles, current and forecasted weather conditions and other available data, by preparing multiple (14 as opposed to one forecast for most utilities) accurate short-term load forecasts in order to effectively schedule resources and to meet scheduling obligations of the member agents.
  • Delivers oral and written presentations and reports that alert senior management to ongoing trends and activities that might impact the strategies and position of the company when responding to members and the public.

Required Qualifications:

Education: High school graduate or GED Equivalent.

Experience: Six (6) years transmission /generation operations or construction experience and two years control center related experience Must also be qualified to work Interchange and the "pool" desks. Four (4) years military assignment in power production or maintenance of electrical facilities in lieu of above experience.

Licenses, Certifications, and/or Registrations: Must possess NERC system Operator Certification as TO, BIT, or RC, RC level preferred. Must obtain and maintain Bulk Electric System Cyber Authorized Status as defined in GSOC's CIP Cyber Security Policy 301 and NERC Reliability Standard CIP 004. Must participate in company sponsored training to obtain required NERC Certification Continuing Education Hours.

Specialized Skills: Excel/MS Word experience required. Must have sound decision making ability under stressful conditions. Must be able to communicate effectively via both oral and written methods. Must be able to work effectively in a team environment. Basic knowledge of electrical theory (including Trigonometry) and above average logic, reasoning, and math skills.

Unusual hours: Work a rotating 12- and/or 8- hour shift which involves working weekends and holidays and PTO coverage at other operating positions.


Georgia System Operations Corporation is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, including veterans and disabled. We are a drug-free workplace. All applicants are subject to substance abuse testing.