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Electric System Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Aep

Electric System Operator

Gahanna, OH · On-site

Job Summary The Electric System Operator (Distribution Dispatcher) is responsible for coordinating, regulating, and controlling the realtime operation of the electric distribution system to ensure ...

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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All JobsElectric System Operator JobsElectric System Operator Jobs in Ohio

Electric System Operator information

See Ohio salary details

$33

$40

$45

How much do electric system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 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

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

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

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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 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,680 per year, or $40.2 per hour.

Electric System Operator

American Electric Power

Gahanna, OH • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

American Electric Power rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 105 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 53 rated energy and utility

Job description

Job Posting End Date
08-25-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
The Electric System Operator (Distribution Dispatcher) is responsible for coordinating, regulating, and controlling the real-time operation of the electric distribution system to ensure reliable, safe, and efficient service to customers. This role monitors system conditions, executes switching orders, responds to outages and emergencies, and communicates with field crews, engineers, and other utility personnel.
Job Description
Electric System Operator (Dist. Dispatcher Assoc. - Dist. Dispatcher Sr.):
As a member of our Distribution Control Center team, you'll be the nerve center of the distribution grid-monitoring SCADA and grid telemetry in real time, making rapid decisions to isolate faults, restore service, and reconfigure feeders to keep power flowing. You'll coordinate crews and contractors, issue safe switching orders, manage outage priorities during storms and emergencies, and communicate clear status updates to operations leadership and stakeholders. This fast-paced role combines technical problem solving, decisive action, and teamwork-where every shift delivers visible impact on reliability, safety, and customer satisfaction-offering hands-on experience with advanced grid controls and a clear path for career growth in utility operations.
What You'll Do:
  • Promote and enforce the Company's Safety and Health programs.
  • Be knowledgeable and adhere to written company and department policy and procedures.
  • Demonstrate the highest standards of ethical behavior and support the Company's Corporate Compliance Policy.
  • Effectively operate company communication equipment.
  • Track crew locations and ongoing work on the distribution system.
  • Dispatch service personnel to respond to outage and emergency situations.
  • Authorize the energizing and restoration of distribution facilities.
  • Maintain accurate outage records.
  • Maintain accurate records of abnormal and defective equipment for distribution facilities.

What We're Looking For:
Dist. Dispatcher Assoc.:
Education requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in any field,
  • OR associate degree in electrical or electronic technology,
  • OR High School Diploma with 2 years of experience with technical customer support and service, including successful multi-tasking and handling of multiple programs/screens.

Dist. Dispatcher:
Education requirements are listed below:
  • Bachelor's degree in any field,
  • OR associate's degree in electrical or electronic technology,
  • OR High School Diploma with 2 years of experience with technical customer support and service, including successful multi-tasking and handling of multiple programs/screens in addition to experience listed below.

Work Experience requirement listed below:
  • Minimum 2 years of experience as a Distribution Dispatcher Assoc.
  • Successfully complete training and pass the examination for a Distribution Dispatcher

Dist. Dispatcher Sr.:
Education requirements are listed below:
  • Bachelor's degree in any field,
  • OR associate's degree in electrical or electronic technology,
  • OR High School Diploma with 2 years of experience with technical customer support and service, including successful multi-tasking and handling of multiple programs/screens in addition to experience listed below.

Work Experience requirement listed below:
  • Minimum 2 years of experience as a Distribution Dispatcher.
  • Successfully complete training and pass the examination for a Distribution Dispatcher Sr.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS (ALL Levels):
  • Entry-level hires in the Distribution Dispatcher role have opportunities to advance into progressive positions at regular intervals through our job progression pathway. With strong performance and successful progression, employees can expect to reach earnings of $100,000+ within five years.
  • Rotating shift work required.
  • This job requires "recommended" test results from HireVue Dispatcher Worker Virtual Job Tryout. This assessment is completed online, is untimed, and typically takes about 45 minutes to complete. Please refer to the Employment Test Prep section of our website https://www.aep.com/careers/testprep/
  • Must maintain a high availability for call-out response.
  • Due to call-out responsibility, applicants must live within or be willing to relocate to within 45 minutes of the reporting location.
  • Must satisfactorily complete required training and testing to progress to the next level within the Distribution Dispatcher Associate classification within 2 years and to the Distribution Dispatcher classification within 4 years or vacate the position.
  • Promotion and/or equity adjustments within the classification will be made in salary upon successful completion of the required training and testing.
  • Must be able to work under pressure during periods of critical system conditions and deal with diverse situations simultaneously.
  • Critical decisions must be made affecting reliability and priority of service to customers.
  • Failure to issue correct instructions could affect personnel safety, welfare of the general public, equipment damage, loss of revenue and adverse publicity.

Drive Time Requirement:
  • Successful candidate must live or be willing to relocate within 45 mins of the AEPOH Gahanna building (700 Morrison Road Gahanna, Ohio 43230)

What You'll Get:
Dist. Dispatcher Assoc.: $70,000 to start
Dist. Dispatcher: $74,551 - $93,188
Dist. Dispatcher Sr.: $87,633 - $109,544
In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
At AEP, we're more than just an energy company - we're a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
#AEPOH
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
SP20-005
Compensation Range:
$63,496.00 - $109,543.00
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S - Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.
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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.

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About American Electric Power

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AEP Energy is a certified competitive retail electricity and natural gas supply provider. We proudly serve residential, small business and commercial and industrial customers. AEP Energy has over 100 years of industry experience with backing from our parent company, American Electric Power (AEP). AEP is one of the largest electric energy companies in the United States and ranked 204 of the Fortune 500.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbus, OH, US

Year founded

1906

Social media

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