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Electric System Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

WEC Energy Group

Meter Apprentice 1

Rhinelander, WI

$57.37/hr

... system operating * obtain monthly substation readings. * Assist in prompt restoration of electric service during emergency outages: * investigate condition * patrol transmission, distribution and ...

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Electric System Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$35

$42

$47

How much do electric system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for electric system operator in Wisconsin is $42.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.29 and $45.62 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 Wisconsin? For Electric System Operator jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Electric System Operator jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Electric System Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Electric System Operator jobs in WI? For Electric System Operator jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Electric System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electric System Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,843 per year, or $42.7 per hour.

Senior Generation System Operator

Alliantenergy

Madison, WI

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Bring YOUR energy to Alliant Energy!

At Alliant Energy, our purpose is to serve customers and build stronger communities. We are passionate about powering beyond the market challenges of today, while powering what's next in energy. When our employees say "I am energy", it means they take pride in the work we do when disaster strikes, as well as all the days in between. We want you to be safe, happy and healthy. That's why we prioritize safety, offer volunteer opportunities and provide competitive pay, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, tuition reimbursement and paid time off.

Job Summary

Step into a high-impact role where you will be at the center of keeping the power grid running safely and reliably. As a Senior GENCO System Operator, you will play a critical role in real-time operations; monitoring system conditions, directing generation resources, and making fast, informed decisions that keep energy flowing across Alliant Energy's east and west balancing authorities.

This is a dynamic, fast-paced environment where no two days are the same. You'll work alongside a skilled team to optimize generation performance, respond to system events, and ensure compliance with NERC, MISO, and MRO reliability standards. Your expertise will directly support the safe and efficient delivery of energy to the communities we serve.

This role also offers the opportunity to grow your technical capabilities, including obtaining your NERC System Operator Certification within six months of hire.

Important Role Details:

  • This position operates on a rotational schedule and requires availability to work days, nights, weekends, and holidays.

  • This is an on-site role and is not a hybrid opportunity.


What you will do

  • Direct, dispatch, coordinate, and optimize the operation all Alliant Energy and Central Iowa Power Cooperative (CIPCO) generating units during normal operation, alerts, warnings, and emergencies while maintaining reliability of the Alliant Energy east and west balancing authorities.

  • Ensure compliance with all applicable North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and MRO reliability standards as well as MISO, TOP, and Alliant Energy standards and procedures.

  • Assist in training activities, drill preparation, and other NERC required operator training activities.

  • Starts and stops generators in response to requests from MISO or to relieve emergency conditions as needed by the transmission operator.

  • Utilize the generation management system (GMS) to monitor all critical aspects of the bulk electric system, including system load, frequency, tie-line and generator status, and voltage levels.

  • Ensures quality and accuracy of real-time telemetered data and responds to failures by manually updating data and coordinating failed equipment repair or replacement.

  • Monitors real-time interconnected tie line flows and performs nightly interconnection check out with neighboring utilities.

  • Takes or directs appropriate action during normal and emergency conditions to maintain the reliability of the bulk electric system, including implementation of interruptible load, direct load control, firm load shedding, or other load management resources.

  • Ensures accurate daily operations log and detailed records are maintained during shift.

  • Engages in other duties as needed that support Alliant Energy's Values and helps deliver on our Purpose to serve customers and build stronger communities.

Education Requirements

  • Bachelor's Degree Emphasis in engineering, business, marketing or a related field Preferred

  • Certification NERC System Operator Certification is required or must be obtained within six months and maintained Required


Required Experience

  • 5 years of related experience including experience in various phases of power system operation


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Knowledge of the company's generation assets, generation management system, system operations, ATC and ITC Midwest transmission systems, and MISO market and operating procedures.

  • Knowledge of and ability to comply with NERC standards and requirements. Able to participate in NERC compliance audits.

  • Ability to train new System Operators.

  • Demonstrated ability to use computers and analytical methods to analyze various operational problems.

  • Demonstrated effective interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.

  • Ability to work twelve (12) hour shifts on a varying or rotating schedule which may include night, holiday and weekend shifts.

  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative and inclusive work environment.


Key Skills

  • Data Analysis Demand Planning Distribution Automation Emergency Response Power Monitoring Health & Safety Management Load Estimation Outage Management Power Distribution Systems Management Switching Power System Dispatch Strategy Utility Mapping


Our people are passionate about what they do, the product they sell, and the customers they serve. If you're looking for an opportunity to be a part of a work family that values collaboration, innovation and dedication, we're the right company for you.

Alliant Energy offers a comprehensive total rewards package including competitive compensation and benefit programs. Information on these benefit programs is available on our Careers site.

Pay Range:

$93,500 - $128,500

This position is eligible to participate in the annual incentive program. The final salary offered will generally fall within this range and is dependent on various factors including but not limited to the responsibilities of the position, experience, skill set, internal pay equity and other relevant qualifications of the applicant.

It's not just what we do; it's how we do it.

Live Safety. Everyone. Always | Make Things Better | Care For Others | Do The Right Thing | Act For Tomorrow | Think Beyond. Be Bold

Alliant Energy and its subsidiaries are committed to creating a culture of belonging and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis prohibited by law.

All candidates selected for employment with Alliant Energy will be required to successfully complete a background check, and a drug screen where applicable.

Disclaimer:
The above information on this description has been crafted to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not crafted to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

Applicants in need of a reasonable accommodation for any part of the hiring process, please email talent@alliantenergy.com.

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