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Electric System Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

FirstEnergy Corp.

Transmission System Operator - P

Akron, OH · On-site

$18 - $21.75/hr

System Operators prepare and coordinate switching procedures for routine and emergency work on the electric system and communicate this information to field crews. Entry level Transmission System ...

FirstEnergy

Transmission System Operator - P

Akron, OH · On-site

$18 - $21.75/hr

System Operators prepare and coordinate switching procedures for routine and emergency work on the electric system and communicate this information to field crews. Entry level Transmission System ...

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Electric System Operator information

See Ohio salary details

$33

$40

$45

How much do electric system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for electric system operator in Ohio is $40.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.93 and $42.98 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.
More about Electric System Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Electric System Operator jobs in Ohio? For Electric System Operator jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Electric System Operator jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Electric System Operator jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Electric System Operator jobs in OH? For Electric System Operator jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Electric System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electric System Operator job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,680 per year, or $40.2 per hour.

Transmission System Operator - P

FirstEnergy Corp.

Akron, OH • On-site

$18 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

FirstEnergy rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 72 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 53 rated energy and utility

Job description


Job Description
About the Opportunity
This is an open position with FirstEnergy Service Co., a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp.[FEU]
Transmission System Operators ensure the reliable delivery of electricity to consumers. From the company's state-of-the-art control centers, System Operators monitor conditions on the electrical grid and develop contingency plans to curtail potentially dangerous and costly system problems. System Operators prepare and coordinate switching procedures for routine and emergency work on the electric system and communicate this information to field crews. Entry level Transmission System Operators receive extensive training and valuable on the job experience to prepare for NERC/PJM certification and learn the FirstEnergy system. Based on individual performance, Operators then advance from an entry level position to the career-level Transmission System Operator position.
There are multiple positions available in Akron, OH
  • Responsibilities include:
  • Assisting in controlling operation of the transmission system in a safe, reliable and efficient manner
  • Assisting in ordering appropriate operational changes to meet load fluctuations or loss of generation equipment, substation equipment or transmission lines
  • Assisting in issuing transmission switching orders to switchmen and power plant personnel
  • Performing special operating studies and preparing reports, load flows and other operating and dispatching data
  • Assisting in the coordination and operations of system operators from other companies
  • Scheduling work on substation, transmission line and power plant substation equipment
  • Assisting in the direct placement of safety tags and issuing clearance or switching controls to appropriate personnel
  • Assisting in preparing new or revising existing switching orders and operating procedures
  • Operating the Energy Management System computer application
  • Using FirstEnergy's corporate computer applications, including EDOA, and Access Databases
  • Diagnosing causes of trouble when interruptions occur in substations or to transmission lines and determining steps to be taken for the restoration of service, including the rerouting of electrical energy
  • Obtaining weather information from weather services and interconnected companies to forecast loads
  • Coordinating with regional personnel on matters pertaining to customer problems

The Transmission System Operator I level involves training and development responsibilities to progress toward Transmission System Operator II level.
Qualifications include:
  • A minimum of 2 - 4 years of an accredited engineering or technical school degree or in lieu of degree, equivalent experience with a high school diploma or equivalent required
  • Must satisfy requirements of the EEi System Operator/Power Dispatching Test (SOPD)
  • Able to meet all FirstEnergy, North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and PJM operator certification requirements as responsibilities progress within the position
  • Effective performance in regional dispatching, substation or lines areas, energy scheduling or equivalent type of experience in electric company operations preferred
  • Demonstrated interpersonal skills
  • Demonstrated good analytical skills to process information in a timely and accurate manner
  • Ability to accurately perform analytical calculations such as voltage drops, transformer and circuit loadings, system load and interchange data calculations and verifications
  • Demonstrated computer skills (Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Knowledge of the equipment and principles involved in the operation of all components of the electrical system preferred

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