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Electric System Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Press Operator

Macomb, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

Lincoln Electric is the world leader in the engineering, design, and manufacturing of advanced arc ... cutting systems, plasma and oxy-fuel cutting equipment, and has a leading global position in ...

Press Operator

Macomb, MI

$16 - $20.75/hr

Lincoln Electric is the world leader in the engineering, design, and manufacturing of advanced arc ... cutting systems, plasma and oxy-fuel cutting equipment, and has a leading global position in ...

Press Operator

Macomb, MI

$15.25 - $20/hr

Lincoln Electric is the world leader in the engineering, design, and manufacturing of advanced arc ... cutting systems, plasma and oxy-fuel cutting equipment, and has a leading global position in ...

Forklift Operator -Detroit

Detroit, MI

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

Safely operate a stand-up lift and electric sit-down forklift. * Material Handling: Unload inbound ... Skills: Warehouse Management System (WMS) experience is a plus, but not required. Physical ...

Lincoln Electric is a high-performance industrial machinery and technology leader who helps ... Develop HMI interfaces for operator interaction. * Test and debug control programs to ensure ...

Residential Electrician

Niles, MI · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Electric ® franchised system. Each Mr. Electric ® franchised location is independently-owned and operated by an independent franchisee performing services. As a service to its independent ...

Licensed Electrician

Niles, MI · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Electric ® franchised system. Each Mr. Electric ® franchised location is independently-owned and operated by an independent franchisee performing services. As a service to its independent ...

Electric ® franchised system. Each Mr. Electric ® franchised location is independently-owned and operated by an independent franchisee performing services. As a service to its independent ...

Electric ® franchised system. Each Mr. Electric ® franchised location is independently-owned and operated by an independent franchisee performing services. As a service to its independent ...

Lead Substation Physical Engineer

Walled Lake, MI · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

... electric system. Candidates will be expected to use knowledge of digital logic design, AC and DC ... Utilities and mobile operators rely on our Power Delivery Services Team for reliable power and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Electric System Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$30

$36

$41

How much do electric system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for electric system operator in Michigan is $36.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.76 and $39.38 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.
What job categories do people searching Electric System Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Electric System Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Electric System Operator jobs in MI? For Electric System Operator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Electric System Operator job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,718 per year, or $36.9 per hour.
Senior Control Room Operator - NorthStar Clean Energy

Senior Control Room Operator - NorthStar Clean Energy

Consumers Energy Company

Gaylord, MI • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Consumers Energy rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

NorthStar Clean Energy decarbonizes the economy by providing clean energy and carbon management solutions to utility, municipal, commercial, and industrial customers enabling them to meet their sustainability and business goals. Additionally, we own and operate natural gas assets throughout the United States. To learn more about NorthStar Clean Energy, please visit www.northstarcleanenergy.com.

This position is with NorthStar Clean Energy, a CMS Energy company, and is not a position of employment with Consumers Energy.   

Livingston Generating Station consists of four quick-start, simple-cycle combustion turbines totaling 156 MW. The plant's electric output is offered into the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) market and provides VAR support to the transmission system.  

Livingston Generating Station is adjacent to an electric substation and a natural gas pipeline and is often tapped to provide power during transmission system work. The station's generating units are enclosed in a double-walled block building designed for sound control and aesthetics.

The Senior Control Room Operator is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of gas turbine generators and associated auxiliary systems within a power generation facility. This role includes both control room and field operations, with a strong emphasis on real-time monitoring, system optimization, and rapid response to changing plant conditions.

The Senior Control Room Operator is responsible for complying with all station procedures and environmental regulations and directing the activities on their shift.  Directing the operation of major plant equipment and recordkeeping duties to ensure efficient and safe plant operations within established procedures and parameters. 
             

Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Monitor the operation of major plant equipment and systems and take appropriate action to ensure they are operated safely, in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements according to the Emissions Minimization Plan, in a manner consistent with maximizing availability and in a manner consistent with optimizing fuel efficiency      
  • Maintain a log of significant operating activities and events and generate required reports            
  • Operate assigned control systems including distributed control, water, steam, combustion, turbine generator and related components in a safe and efficient manner. 
  • Answer the telephone when necessary in a professional manner and serve as a focal point for communications during emergency situations               
  • Direct and ensure completion of required safety procedures; (e.g., lockout/tagout, confined space, hot work)                      
  • Take measurements and readings and compare with standards; implement corrective actions within established procedures      
  • Assist in maintaining the boiler system by adding/transferring chemicals as needed to maintain desired parameters                          
  • Identify and correct problems; report problems requiring further action
  • Respond to alarms in a timely manner; operate necessary equipment to effectively respond to critical situations                        
  • Coordinate and may direct activities of other work groups as necessary to support overall plant operations.  Train plant personnel in accordance with Company policies and government regulations.  Oversee the work of sub-contractors on assigned shift, as necessary.  Perform other comparable non-operating duties during plant shutdowns.          
  • Initiate and execute unit startup, shutdown, and load adjustments following established procedures
  • Maintain continuous situational awareness of plant status, including generation output and system constraints
  • Other non-essential duties as assigned or may be necessary                                                                                     

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

  • Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision in both control room and field environments
  • Comfortable working alone for extended periods while maintaining high situational awareness and accountability.  Have a working knowledge of LOTO, confined space, P & ID's, hot work    
  • Ability to use past experience, analytical judgement, to plan and perform diversified work              
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety
  • Excellent communication skills to provide clear direction and feedback to all team members on the site     
  • Agility to be able to work overtime, as well as rotating shift schedules that include weekends and holidays
  • Strong understanding of gas turbine systems, thermodynamics, and power plant processes


Position Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED required
  • Associate's Degree preferred
  • 4+ years of power plant operations experience as an operator and or previous control room experience required, with 3 years' experience as a plant operator preferred
  • Electrical & Mechanical experience and knowledge for troubleshooting required.                     
  • Valid driver's license required

Working Conditions:

  • The working conditions for this position may include, but are not limited to, the following requirements and environmental exposures. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • The working conditions for this position may include climbing stairs; frequent walking; and the ability to sit or stand for extended periods. The role may require stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling, as well as lifting, moving, or carrying items up to 35 pounds. Employees must maintain close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus, and must remain alert throughout the workday. Effective communication is essential, along with regular use of computers and related technology. The position may involve exposure to atmospheric conditions such as dust, fumes, odors, gases, and other airborne particles. Work environments may include high noise areas, confined spaces, and elevated locations, as well as extreme internal or external temperatures, including prolonged exposure to the sun. The role may also involve exposure to mechanical, electrical, thermal, chemical, and high/low pressure steam hazards, as well as high electrical voltage. Employees may be required to operate heavy or hazardous equipment and handle potentially hazardous chemicals while following established safety procedures.
  • To support a safe and productive workplace, the Company may require a Fitness for Duty (FFD) evaluation to confirm an employee can safely and effectively perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation. FFD testing will be used only in circumstances permitted by law and administered in a manner that is job related and consistent with business necessity.         

Location:

The selected candidate must be within a commutable distance or willing to relocate. Relocation assistance is not offered for this position.

Why should you join our team?

At NorthStar Clean Energy, we offer more than just a place to work. We foster a culture that supports career development, growth, and stability, and we take pride in offering our co-workers excellent benefits and compensation packages. We are deliberately creating an inclusive culture that makes our diverse team of co-workers feel valued, supported, and empowered every day. We're a company made up of thousands of people, all with different stories to share and work to do, but we stand united in our company purpose: world class performance delivering hometown service.

What we offer:

  • Competitive compensation packages
  • Medical, Dental and Vision
  • 401k with company match
  • Paid parental leave
  • Up to 13 paid Holidays
  • Paid time off
  • Educational Assistance Program

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: 

We, at NorthStar Clean Energy, value Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion. It is part of our DNA. We treat our employees with respect, we treat each other fairly and we value the opinions of others. We are passionate about building and nurturing an environment where everyone feels included. We don't discriminate. We seek to learn about each other and better understand our unique differences. Our uniqueness makes us authentic. We create safe spaces where everyone can be who they truly are. We invite difficult conversations and uncomfortable topics. We value diverse perspectives; this is what makes us great together. We harbor an inclusive environment where employees feel empowered to share their backgrounds, experiences, and ideas. Our Employee Resource Groups, Women's Advisory Panel (WAP), Women's in Energy (WE), Minority Advisory Panel (MAP), Pride Alliance of Consumers Energy (PACE), GENERGY, capable, Interfaith and Veterans Advisory Panel (VAP) are key enablers to living the values of our company culture: Caring, Empowered, Deliberate, Agility, and Ownership.

All qualified applicants will not be discriminated against and will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability, race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.


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