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Electric System Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Systems Operations Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

... Bulk Electric System. This position performs daily, weekly, and seasonal operating studies and reliability assessments to ensure secure system operations and compliance with applicable NERC ...

Leidos

Systems Operations Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

... Bulk Electric System. This position performs daily, weekly, and seasonal operating studies and reliability assessments to ensure secure system operations and compliance with applicable NERC ...

SRP

Power Dispatcher PDO 1, 2, Senior

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

... Operator to operate SRP's power delivery system safely, reliably and in full compliance with the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) Reliability Standards and SRP Operating ...

APS

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Experience operating a Balancing Authority and making real-time control decisions to maintain ... system electric field work or other electric operations work management * Ability to obtain the ...

Arizona Public Service

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Experience operating a Balancing Authority and making real-time control decisions to maintain ... system electric field work or other electric operations work management * Ability to obtain the ...

APS

ECC Transmission Operator

Phoenix, AZ

$18.50 - $22.50/hr

Summary The ECC Tranmission Operator monitors and analyzes system conditions; takes necessary ... operations, system electric field work or other electric operations work. * OR a BS/BA/AA in ...

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Electric System Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$32

$39

$44

How much do electric system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for electric system operator in Arizona is $39.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.16 and $42.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Electric System Operator vs Power Dispatcher?

AspectElectric System OperatorPower Dispatcher
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical engineering or related field; certifications like NERC System Operator Certification are commonOften requires similar technical knowledge; may also hold certifications like NERC or industry-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentControl centers, monitoring grid operations, ensuring system reliabilityField and control room settings, coordinating power flow and dispatching
Industry UsageUsed by utilities, grid operators, and independent system operators (ISOs)Primarily employed by utilities and grid operators for real-time power management

The Electric System Operator and Power Dispatcher roles both focus on maintaining the reliability and efficiency of the electrical grid. While they share similar credentials and work environments, the Electric System Operator typically oversees broader system operations and grid stability, whereas the Power Dispatcher focuses more on real-time power dispatching and load balancing. Both roles are essential for a secure and reliable power supply.

What does an electric system operator do?

An electric system operator configures, operates, and monitors power plant systems to ensure reliability. As an electric system operator, your responsibilities include controlling and balancing the voltage generation of electrical power systems and the transmission of electrical power so that utility customers have access to reliable power. Your job duties include maintaining and repairing electrical systems, escalating operational issues to supervisors or technicians as needed, and restoring electrical systems after power failures or outages. You must work well both independently and as part of a team, paying attention to safety procedures.

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

To thrive as an Electric System Operator, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a background in electrical engineering or a related technical field, often supported by NERC certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, energy management software, and real-time monitoring tools is crucial. Excellent communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help operators manage critical situations effectively. These competencies are vital to ensuring grid reliability, safety, and rapid response to emergencies in the power system.

What is an electric system operator?

Electric System Operators are professionals responsible for monitoring and controlling the flow of electricity through transmission and distribution networks. They ensure the reliable delivery of electricity by balancing supply and demand, responding to emergencies, and coordinating maintenance with other personnel. Their role is critical in preventing outages and maintaining the stability of the electrical grid. They often work in control centers using advanced technology and communication systems.

What are some common challenges electric system operators face when balancing supply and demand in real time?

Electric System Operators often encounter the challenge of maintaining grid reliability while responding to sudden changes in electricity demand, unexpected equipment failures, or fluctuations in renewable generation. Rapid decision-making and clear communication with power plants, transmission operators, and field crews are essential to prevent outages or instability. Operators must also stay vigilant during extreme weather events, which can increase system stress and require quick coordination across multiple teams.
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Electric System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electric System Operator job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,025 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Supervisory Power System Dispatcher

Western Area Power Administration

Phoenix, AZ • On-site, Remote

$197K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Summary
This position is part of WAPA, Rocky Mountain Region, Desert Southwest Region - Power Operations. As a Supervisory Power System Dispatcher, you will plan, organize, direct, supervise and perform a variety of technical tasks relative to the assigned power system dispatch functional area and activities in the assigned region.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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As a Supervisory Power System Dispatcher, you will:
  • Responsible for developing and implementing written operating plans, standards, and procedures to be followed in connection with the operation of the power system.
  • Assures the effective and efficient control and operation of the system for the generation and delivery of capacity and energy to customers in coordination with interconnected utilities.
  • Ensures Operators are able to take timely and appropriate real-time actions including the shedding of firm load to prevent or alleviate System Operating Limit or Interconnection Reliability Operating Limit violations during normal and emergency conditions to ensure the stable and reliable operation of the Bulk Electric System (BES).
  • Responsible to ensure operation personnel are able to receive and issue normal and emergency operating orders and instructions for system operators under their command or purview in accordance with established standards, guidelines, policies, and procedures.
  • Maintains strict compliance with FERC standards of conduct, NERC Standards, WECC Standards and Operating Reliability Criteria. Takes prompt and appropriate action to maintain compliance.
  • Represents WAPA at policy and decisional meetings with Bulk Electric System utilities, industry oversight agencies such as the Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC), Midwest Reliability Organization (MRO), NERC, and FERC, etc., generator operators, load serving entities, customers, etc.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
  • This employer participates in the e-Verify program.
  • Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • Suitable for Federal employment, as determined by a background investigation.
  • May be required to successfully complete a probationary/trial period. Employees serving on a probationary or trial period may be terminated at any time during the probationary or trial period for performance, conduct, or business-related reasons in the interest of Federal service.
  • Limit your resume to no more than two (2) pages. If more than two pages are submitted, only the first two pages will be reviewed to determine your eligibility and qualifications.
  • In accordance with Executive Order 14170, applicants are encouraged to respond to the four short, free-response, essay questions in the questionnaire. Answers to these questions are not scored or rated. Your answers will be reviewed by the hiring manager and agency leadership if you are referred for selection consideration.
  • Position is subject to random drug testing.
  • You must pass pre-employment drug testing.
  • You must pass pre-employment medical examination.
  • Security clearance and associated requirements- High Risk.
  • Shift work and emergency overtime may be required.
  • Employee may be required to work other than normal duty hours, to include evenings, weekends and/or holidays.

Qualifications
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: A qualified candidate's online application and resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the AD-05 at the next lower grade level or equivalent in the Federal service. Specialized experience for this position is defined as:
  1. Drafting, reviewing and implementing policies and procedures regarding applicable power systems;
  2. Managing both routine and emergency switching and troubleshooting in interconnected system(s) with 100 kV and above voltage classes;
  3. Maintaining compliance with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) standards; AND
  4. Managing, directing, and counseling subordinates in task implementation, training and administrative work.

Time-in-Grade: Current career or career-conditional GS employees of the Federal government, or former career or career-conditional GS employees, who have a break in service of less than one year, are required to meet the time-in-grade restriction of one year of Federal experience at the next lower grade, with few exceptions outlined in 5 CFR 300.603(b). Note: Time-In-Grade requirements also apply to current career or career-conditional federal employees applying for a Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998 (VEOA) appointment.
Limit your resume to no more than two (2) pages. If more than two pages are submitted, only the first two pages will be reviewed to determine your eligibility and qualifications.
Education
For this position, education cannot be substituted for experience.
Additional information
  • This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional similar vacancies across DOE.
  • For general information on government-wide Telework polices visit: www.telework.gov.
  • Applicants may request Reasonable Accommodation (RA) when applying or competing for a job due to a medical condition or to exercise religious beliefs. If you need reasonable accommodation in the application or selection process, please contact the Agency Contact listed on this vacancy announcement.
  • If selected, you may be required to complete a one-year supervisory probation period.
  • Promotion Potential: This position is at the full performance level.
  • The selectee for this position may be eligible to receive a relocation incentive. You will need to sign an employment agreement to be eligible for this incentive.
  • Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are not authorized.

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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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