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Electric System Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Exelon

Trans System Operator I

Lombard, IL · On-site

Primary Purpose Operates the electric system, under the immediate supervision of the Shift Manager, Sr. Transmission System Operator and Transmission System Operator II, using various computer ...

Prairie Power, Inc

Senior Electrical Engineer

Springfield, IL · On-site

$99K - $129K/yr

Develop and maintain substation and transmission line equipment ratings, fault studies, relay reviews/settings, and line clearance/operating orders. * Evaluate and improve electric system design ...

Village of Winnetka, IL

Electric Lineworker

Winnetka, IL · On-site

$138K - $143K/yr

... operating truck-mounted buckets and power equipment. In addition to normal line work, electric ... Inspect distribution system to prevent or detect problems; locate and determine cause of ...

Village of Winnetka

Electric Lineworker

Winnetka, IL

$138K - $143K/yr

... operating truck-mounted buckets and power equipment. In addition to normal line work, electric ... Inspect distribution system to prevent or detect problems; locate and determine cause of ...

Dfwairport

Industrial Electrician II

Energy, IL

$26.25 - $34/hr

Responsible for maintaining 125 VDC electric systems. * Test operate 25kV switchgear and utility ... The State of Texas Class D Water Works Operator certification within one year of employment.

Pepco

Mgr Grid Strategy & Analytics

Oakbrook Terrace, IL · On-site

$115 - $158/hr

... Electric (ACE), Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE), Commonwealth Edison (ComEd), Delmarva Power ... System Operator initiatives designed to assure the highest levels of customer services and to ...

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Electric System Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$34

$41

$45

How much do electric system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for electric system operator in Illinois is $41.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.65 and $43.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

More about Electric System Operator jobs

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Electric System Operator jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Electric System Operator job openings:

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

Electric System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electric System Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,293 per year, or $41 per hour.

Trans System Operator I

Exelon

Lombard, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 hours ago

Exelon rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 53 rated energy and utility

Job description

Who We Are
We're powering a cleaner, brighter future.
Exelon is leading the energy transformation, and we're calling all problem solvers, innovators, community builders and change makers. Work with us to deliver solutions that make our diverse cities and communities stronger, healthier and more resilient.
We're powered by purpose-driven people like you who believe in being inclusive and creative, and value safety, innovation, integrity and community service. We are a Fortune 200 company, 20,000 colleagues strong serving more than 10.7 million customers at six energy companies -- Atlantic City Electric (ACE), Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE), Commonwealth Edison (ComEd), Delmarva Power & Light (DPL), PECO Energy Company (PECO), and Potomac Electric Power Company (Pepco).
We're committed to creating an environment where every person can thrive. Our employee experience is grounded in four tenets that guide how we support our people: purposeful careers, growth opportunities, community impact, and support to thrive.
In our relentless pursuit of excellence, we elevate diverse voices, fresh perspectives and bold thinking. And since we know transforming the future of energy is hard work, we provide competitive compensation, incentives, excellent benefits and the opportunity to build a rewarding career.
Are you in?
Primary Purpose
Operates the electric system, under the immediate supervision of the Shift Manager, Sr. Transmission System Operator and Transmission System Operator II, using various computer systems. Utilizes processes and procedures under immediate supervisor to perform routing work, switching, logging, analysis of data and determining priority of work on electrical and computer systems. Performs assigned tasks as directed such as initiating work requests. Works closely with Transmission Operations Training and others to enhance personal knowledge of system operations. Responsible for field visits with operating company field personnel to learn field equipment and processes. Responsible for successful completion of NERC and PJM certification examinations and all applicable classroom and on-line training on PJM and Exelon policies and procedures. Position may be required to work extended hours for coverage during storms or other energy delivery emergencies.
Note: This is an on-site position. Employees are required to be in office at our Lombard - IL location for any scheduled shifts.
Primary Duties
  • Complete assigned coursework and obtain NERC and PJM system operator certifications.
  • Work with TSO Training and others to enhance knowledge of system operations and demonstrate proficiency necessary to progress to TSO II. Topics include Communications, Switching, Lock-Out Tag-Out, Voltage Control, System Protection, System Configuration & Equipment, Energy Management System, Clearance Order Writing.
  • Support routing work, switching, logging, analysis of data, etc.
  • Perform assigned tasks as directed such as initiating work requests for equipment problems, tracking customer outages, updating control room maps, etc.
  • Maintain operating log, interruption reports and associated records to accurately record system status and sequence of events.
  • Participate in field visits with operating company field personnel to learn field equipment/processes.

Job Scope
  • Functional control over various operating, construction, testing, customer and contractor groups in the performance of limited electrical switching, repair, testing and related work activities involving lines, transformers, and other equipment under the jurisdiction of the Shift Manager and Sr. Transmission System Operator. The different groups include overhead operating, overhead and underground maintenance and distribution testing, substation construction and maintenance.
  • The consequences of operating errors or improper system operation could cost the company millions of dollars in direct, indirect and intangible costs such as the loss of customer good will, damaged company equipment, damaged customer equipment and damage to the company's public image.
  • Independent judgment is essential in making the real time decisions necessary to maintain the integrity, reliability and security of the electric transmission and distribution system.

Minimum Qualifications
  • BS in Engineering or technical field; OR
  • Associates in technical field: OR
  • High School diploma AND 3-6 years of job experience, preferably in the electrical field.
  • Basic awareness of the electric transmission and distribution systems. Ability to recognize system configuration, loading, and pressure issues. Ability to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of operating procedures.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Demonstrated analytical skills and judgment.
  • Demonstrated ability to respond to emergencies and manage stressful situations.
  • Candidate must be "Recommended" on the System Operator / Power Dispatch (SOPD) test to be eligible for consideration.
  • Candidate must successfully complete all necessary training and successfully pass all applicable tests required to fill this role including the NERC and PJM certifications. Candidates are provided one opportunity to retest before being classified as unsuccessful in the program and unable to perform the required functions of this position.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelors Degree Electrical or Mechanical Engineering
  • Associates Degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering

Benefits
  • Annual salary will vary based on a candidate's skills, qualifications, experience, and other factors: $76,000.00/Yr. - $104,500.00/Yr.
  • Annual Bonus for eligible positions: 10%
  • 401(k) match and annual company contribution
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Generous paid time off options, including vacation, sick time, floating and fixed holidays, maternity leave and bonding/primary caregiver leave or parental leave
  • Employee Assistance Program and resources for mental and emotional support
  • Wellbeing programs such as tuition reimbursement, adoption and surrogacy assistance and fitness reimbursement
  • Referral bonus program
  • And much more

Note: Exelon-sponsored compensation and benefit programs may vary or not apply based on length of service, job grade, job classification or represented status. Eligibility will be determined by the written plan or program documents.

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About Exelon

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Exelon is leading the energy transformation, and we're calling all problem solvers, innovators, community builders and change makers. Work with us to deliver solutions that make our diverse cities and communities stronger, healthier and more resilient. We're powered by purpose-driven people like you who believe in being inclusive and creative, and value safety, innovation, integrity and community service. We are a Fortune 200 company, 19,000 colleagues strong serving more than 10 million customers at six energy companies -- Atlantic City Electric (ACE), Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE), Commonwealth Edison (ComEd), Delmarva Power & Light (DPL), PECO Energy Company (PECO), and Potomac Electric Power Company (Pepco). In our relentless pursuit of excellence, we elevate diverse voices, fresh perspectives and bold thinking. And since we know transforming the future of energy is hard work, we provide competitive compensation, incentives, excellent benefits and the opportunity to build a rewarding career.

Industry

Clean energy services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1999

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