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Electric System Operator Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

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Electric System Operator information

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$38

$46

$51

How much do electric system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for electric system operator in Massachusetts is $46.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.56 and $49.38 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.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Electric System Operator jobs in MA?

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

Infographic showing various Electric System Operator job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,128 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

Lead Engineer, Transmission System Planning (hybrid)

Westwood, MA • On-site


Eversource Energy
Utilities • 5 - 10K employees

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 53 rated energy and utility

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Eversource will not offer immigration-related sponsorship for this position (e.g., H-1B, O-1, J-1, TN, E-3, etc.). Applicants requiring visa sponsorship to start employment with Eversource will not be considered.
Our Team:
We have an amazing opportunity to join our Transmission System Planning as a Lead Engineer. This strategic role, will provide focused subject matter expertise and oversight of power system studies and system solutions development by coordinating team assignments associated with the modeling and analysis of Eversource's electric transmission system. The role requires extensive experience associated with the modeling, analyses, and planning level designs of transmission lines, substation facilities, and other applicable assets or resources comprising of New England's electric power system. Typical studies include analyses of power flow, transient stability, short circuit, and electromagnetic transient (EMT).
The position assists in leading the development and improvements of standard procedures or processes, methodologies and any other necessary documentation supporting the studies and any resulting system improvements. This position entails representing the Company on regional and national transmission committees regarding transmission planning matters for New England Power Pool (NEPOOL), North American Electric Reliability Council (NERC), New England Power Coordination Council (NPCC), and Independent System Operators of New England (ISO-NE) as needed.
Essential Functions:
  • Serve as the System Planning team lead for direct report engineers by ensuring responsible assignments are performed satisfactorily where sound technical mitigation measures or upgrade solutions are recommended. Serve as point of contact for internal and external stakeholders on transmission system reliability studies
  • Leads the development and maintenance of the system power flow model. This includes:
    • Collection and review of the forecast loads to be included in the model
    • Collection, modification, and review of a variety of electric system parameters including: equipment ratings, impedances, contingency sets, protection and control parameters, as well as system topology
    • Collection, modification, and review of modeling for steady state, stability, short circuit, and EMT analyses
  • Leads the strategic needs assessment and analysis of proposed solutions associated with Eversource service territory, especially EMA and NH. This includes:
    • Determining required level of analysis, study assumptions, and study scopes
    • Application of corporate planning standards in conjunction with any other applicable NERC, NPCC, and ISO-NE reliability standards and criteria
    • Determining transmission system area needs through performing transmission system studies
    • Verification of technical feasibility or soundness of proposed plans utilizing industry accepted techniques
  • Interfacing with various ISO-NE staff, DER and Distribution System Planning, Advanced Forecasting, line and substation engineering, Asset Management, siting, environmental and permitting, operations, etc. for the determination of system impacts and proposed solutions
  • Developing design solutions and possible alternatives to mitigate identified assessment criteria violations with consideration of other potential near term and long term needs in the study area
  • Providing study updates and presenting study results to internal and external stakeholders as needed
  • Leads the Annual System assessments and develops potential alternatives to reliability objectives by identifying key technical issues and developing proposed and alternative solutions. This includes:
    • Application of corporate planning standards in conjunction with any other Federal, State or Local regulatory requirements
    • Plans, develops and collaborates in the implementation and management of the life cycle planning for transmission assets
    • Contributes to the development of the Transmission capital budget through development of cost-effective programs and projects to meet customer and system needs
  • Leads the analysis of system interconnections. This includes:
    • Review and provide assessment support for applications in the applicable interconnection queue
    • Managing the impact analysis of interconnections on the Eversource electric system
  • Serves as a company expert witness advocating the Company's position at various regulatory and/or siting proceedings on issues dealing with Company's plans for Transmission improvements.
  • Conducts performance evaluations for System Planning staff and creates performances goals, development plans and growth opportunities for all direct reports.
  • Other supporting role responsibilities:
    • Represents the department and the company on various industry related committees.
    • Participates with other utilities and the planning staff of the Independent System Operator (ISO) in the preparation of regional transmission expansion studies.
    • Coordinates and works in close collaboration with various internal departments such as Engineering, System Operations, Protection & Control, Communications, Project Management, Regulatory Policy, Compliance, Siting & Outreach, Real Estate, Investment Planning and Finance as well as any other internal or external groups as necessary
    • Clearly and effectively communicates the results of analyses and action plans both verbally and in writing
    • Trains junior staff in technical analyses and procedures
    • Performs an emergent storm assignment as needed during times of inclement weather or adverse system conditions

Technical Knowledge/Skill/Education/Licenses/Certifications:
  • 8+ years experience performing Power Systems Engineering and Analysis or as a Power System Planner in an electric utility with Transmission system planning focused experience.
  • Effective communication and writing skills with the ability to communicate complicated technical issues in a succinct manner.
  • Very familiar with NERC, NPCC and ISO-NE transmission planning reliability standards. Understanding of ISO-NE Transmission Planning Process and Procedures.
  • Experience with power system transmission analysis tools such as PSSE, TARA, EMS, ASPEN, PROMOD, PowerWorld, PSCAD or other similar analysis software.
  • Ability to interface effectively and collaborate with clients, peers, project personnel, and all levels of management enterprise-wide to develop solutions and ensure stakeholder buy-in.
  • Strong understanding of electrical engineering concepts such as reliability, load flow, stability, short circuit, voltage regulation, transients, power factor, losses, etc.
  • Strong technical understanding of the parameters and functions used in the operation of the power delivery system as well as power industry fundamentals, practices, and standards
  • Thorough understanding of engineering economics

Education:
  • Requires a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems or related.
    Advanced Degree in Power Systems Engineering is preferred

Experience:
  • A minimum of 8 years of Power Systems Analysis or Planning experience. Transmission System Planning experience is required

Working Conditions:
  • Must be available to work emergency restoration assignment as required.
  • HYBRID: Eversource supports work-life balance by offering hybrid schedules for certain roles. Eligibility is based on job responsibilities, operational needs, nature of work and team dynamics. Current guidelines require employees to work at least three days in the office, including Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with the third day set by the employee and supervisor based on department needs. These guidelines apply to roles approved for remote work and are subject to change, based on managerial discretion and work performance. All applicants must be able to work up to five days in the office if needed (for example: emergencies, training, or other business needs) or should the policy change.

#LI-ES3
#LI-Hybrid
#engajd
Competencies:
Build trusting relationships
Manage and develop people
Foster teamwork and cross-functional collaboration
Lead change
Communicate strategic vision
Create an engaged workforce
Focus on the customer
Take ownership & accountability
Compensation and Benefits:
Eversource offers a competitive total rewards program. Check out our careers site for an overview of our benefits programs. Salary is commensurate with your experience. This position is eligible for a potential incentive. The annual salary range for this position is:
$145,670.00-$161,860.00
Worker Type:
Regular
Number of Openings:
1
Emergency Response:
Responding to emergency situations to meet customers' needs is part of every employee's role. If employed, you will be given an Emergency Restoration assignment. This means you may be called to assist during an emergency outside of your normal responsibilities, work hours and location.
EEO Statement:
Eversource Energy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, disability status, or protected veteran status.
VEVRRA Federal Contractor


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