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Electric System Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

PRICE ELECTRIC

Equipment Operator (Utility)

Robins, IA · On-site

Salary: PRICE ELECTRIC is seeking a skilled, team-focused Equipment Operator Utility to support ... High quality resources/specialty equipment and systems * Numerous career growth opportunities for ...

Sysco

Facility Technician III

Ankeny, IA · On-site

... system operator and security. RESPONSIBILITIES * Demonstrate an understanding and adherence to all work safety policies, procedures, and governing requirements. * Knowledge of controls and electric ...

EMCOR Group Inc

Baker Electric

Des Moines, IA

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Des Moines, IA FLSA Status: Full-Time / Non-Exempt Since 1946 Baker Electric has served the ... Ability to navigate and operate independently within general Windows based operating systems and ...

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All JobsElectric System Operator JobsElectric System Operator Jobs in Iowa

Electric System Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$33

$39

$44

How much do electric system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for electric system operator in Iowa is $39.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.50 and $42.45 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 are Electric System Operators?

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.
More about Electric System Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Electric System Operator jobs in Iowa? For Electric System Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Electric System Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Electric System Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Electric System Operator jobs in IA? For Electric System Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Electric System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electric System Operator job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,674 per year, or $39.7 per hour.
Production Operator (2nd Shift) - Boyer Valley Company

Production Operator (2nd Shift) - Boyer Valley Company

Lauridsen Group, Inc.

Denison, IA • On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

To process raw material into a quality finished product and to assist various areas within the plant while maintaining efficient production processes according to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) in order to meet customer specifications.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
High School Diploma or GED certificate preferred.
Experience:
Previous work experience in agriculture, production, or manufacturing preferred.
JOB DUTIES:
Milling Operator
  • Operate skid steer to move product
  • Follow verbal and written instructions relating to placement/blending of product
  • Climb stairs to monitor trailers being loaded
  • Document required information per quality policies

Receiving Operator
  • Ability to follow written/verbal instruction and communicate regarding product flow
  • Use push-button system to operate bins and augers
  • Use hand tools to physically clean out bins and augers
  • Manually open and close valves using crank system
  • Communicate clearly and consistently with other departments regarding product flow
  • Climb stairs to monitor product flow
  • Document required information per quality policies

Meat Cooker Operator
  • Read and operate electronic monitoring system
  • Open and close valves and equipment doors using crank system
  • Climb stairs to monitor and operate equipment
  • Use shovel to scoop product off ground into tubs
  • Communicate clearly and consistently with other departments regarding product flow
  • Document required information per quality policies

Feather System Operator
  • Operate skid steer to move product
  • Read and operate electronic monitoring system
  • Use push-button system to operate bins and augers
  • Use shovel to physically remove product from under conveyor
  • Document required information per quality policies

Blood System Operator
  • Ability to read and operate electric monitoring system
  • Ability to open and close valves using lever and crank systems
  • Use push-button system to operate bins and augers
  • Ability to use and maneuver hose to load and unload trailers
  • Document required information per quality policies

Shag Truck Operator
  • Operate shag truck to move trailers around facility
  • Ability to use crank system to secure trailers
  • Ability to read and monitor gauges to diagnose equipment failure
  • Ability to use and maneuver hose to load and unload trailers
  • Document required information per quality policies

JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ability to communicate clearly and consistently with other employees in the workplace.
  • Ability to work safely and be quality conscious.
  • Ability to prepare and operate all machinery.
  • General knowledge of production/manufacturing methods.
  • Ability to read gauges and record data in a legible manner in accordance with established procedures.
  • Ability to learn to handle inedible protein materials in accordance with established sanitary procedures and practices.
  • Ability to understand and follow established work procedures, including mandated sanitary and safety guidelines.
  • Ability to read, write and comprehend instructions.
  • Ability to operate skid steer/pallet jack/forklift.
  • Ability to work varying work schedules.
  • Ability to interpret and work from verbal and written instructions.
  • Ability to perform basic math skills.
  • Ability to move freely throughout plant with sustained physical/mental effort to climb, sample and clean equipment and work areas.
  • Ability to remain calm and professional at all times.
  • Knowledge and experience with preventive maintenance programs.
  • Ability to troubleshoot malfunction and situations as they arise, notifying appropriate staff of problems beyond scope of normality.
  • Ability to cooperate with all staff.
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Ability to work daily, weekends and overtime as necessary.
  • Ability to assist in all work areas.
  • Ensure principles of animal food hygiene and animal food safety are followed and maintained

BASIC PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Approximate: 8-9 Hour Day (may be longer during peak season)
Key: Rare = 0% - 5%
Occasional = 6% - 33%
Frequent = 34% - 66%
Continuous = 67% - 100%
N/A = Not Applicable
Standing - Continuous
Sitting - Occasional
Walking - Continuous
Bending/Kneeling/Crouching/Stooping - Frequent
Reaching Above Shoulder - Occasional
Climbing Stairs - Frequent
Climbing Ladders - Rare
Working on Heights:
Unprotected heights - Rare
Protected heights - Frequent
Lifting:
Lifting weights from 01 to 10lbs. - Occasional
Lifting weights from 11 to 20lbs. - Occasional
Lifting weights from 21 to 30lbs. - Occasional
Lifting weights from 31 to 40lbs. - Occasional
Lifting weights from 41 to 50lbs. - Occasional
Push/Pull/Maneuver:
Push/pull/maneuver weights from 01 to 10lbs. - Occasional
Push/pull/maneuver weights from 11 to 20lbs. - Occasional
Push/pull/maneuver weights from 21 to 30lbs. - Occasional
Push/pull/maneuver weights from 31 to 40lbs - Occasional
Push/pull/maneuver weights from 41 to 50lbs. - Occasional
Working with/or operating moving machinery/equipment - Continuous
Operating a motor vehicle as part of your job [Shag Truck Operator] - Continuous
Operating a motor vehicle as part of your job [All other positions] - Rare
Read/monitor gauges on various equipment/machinery - Continuous
Recording data - Continuous
Operating office equipment - Rare
Operating computer - Rare
Foot movements to operate foot controls [Shag Truck Operator] - Continuous
Foot movements to operate foot controls [All other positions] - Rare
Good vision, corrected to normal; or ability to access
required information and to perform job duties - Yes
Color definition - Yes
Good hearing, corrected to normal; or ability to communicate
and/or understand required information and to perform job duties - Yes
Mobility:
(Ability to be Mobile throughout required work areas)
Office - Rare
Multiple Locations - Rare
Plant - Continuous
Equipment/maintenance or repair area - Continuous
BASIC MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:
Employee must be able to handle multiple tasks and learn equipment/machinery operation as required by job description. Employee will frequently use the following abilities: learning new equipment; calculating; analyzing numbers and situations; reading, speaking, and writing; comprehending complex information; problem solving; and communication skills. Employee must be able to follow established procedures using common sense and logical thinking in accomplishing job duties. In addition, employee must be able to work independently, set priorities, and determine work assignments and work methods. Normally, employee will be responsible for materials, company property and work that he/she has completed.
WORKING CONDITIONS AND EXPOSURES:
General manufacturing working conditions exist. Exposures include, but are not limited to chemicals, odor, caustics, temperatures ranging from freezing to extreme heat, high noise levels, dust, moving equipment/machinery and extended work hours. Will be required to stand for an extended period of time on concrete floors. Will be exposed to chemicals used during production and cleanup.

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