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Electric System Operator Jobs in Springfield, IL

Prairie Power, Inc

Senior Electrical Engineer

Springfield, IL · On-site

$99K - $129K/yr

Develop and maintain substation and transmission line equipment ratings, fault studies, relay reviews/settings, and line clearance/operating orders. * Evaluate and improve electric system design ...

Ameren Services

Senior Fleet Tech

Springfield, IL · On-site

$48.57/hr

About Ameren Illinois Ameren Illinois provides electric transmission and distribution service and ... operated equipment. Duties include diagnosis and repair of engine, drive train, body, chassis ...

AMS Ameren Services

Senior Fleet Tech

Springfield, IL

$48.57/hr

About Ameren Illinois Ameren Illinois provides electric transmission and distribution service and ... operated equipment. Duties include diagnosis and repair of engine, drive train, body, chassis ...

Flooring America

Office Assistant

Springfield, IL

$16 - $30/hr

... operating office equipment, and managing files. A thorough understanding of office systems and ... Electric typewriters. * Electronic Data Interchange EDI systems. * Filing system software. * Google ...

ABM Industries

SCHOOL CUSTODIAL CLEANER

Rochester, IL · On-site

$16.50/hr

... building operating systems • Establish and maintain effective communication and working ... electric vehicle charging infrastructure, HVAC and mechanical, landscape and turf, and mission ...

Walker-Miller Energy

Field Technician

Springfield, IL

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Our operating philosophy is reflected in our core values. We refer to them as BEHIVE. B - Boldly Go ... Strong data entry skills in entering information in tracking systems/databases. * Ability to ...

Walker-Miller Energy

Field Technician

Springfield, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Our operating philosophy is reflected in our core values. We refer to them as BEHIVE. B - Boldly Go ... Strong data entry skills in entering information in tracking systems/databases. * Ability to ...

All JobsElectric System Operator JobsElectric System Operator Jobs in Springfield, IL

Electric System Operator information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$35

$41

$46

How much do electric system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for electric system operator in Springfield, IL is $41.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.57 and $44.81 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
Electric System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electric System Operator job openings in Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,237 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Senior Electrical Engineer

Prairie Power, Inc

Springfield, IL • On-site

$99K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Under general direction, this role independently performs advanced engineering work and provides technical leadership to ensure electrical facilities are designed, constructed, maintained, and operated in accordance with industry standards and sound engineering principles.

The Engineer II/Senior Engineer leads complex engineering projects across transmission, distribution, generation, and substation systems, while supporting system planning, regulatory compliance, and operational reliability.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering Design & Technical Leadership

  • Lead the design of electric transmission and substation facilities in compliance with PPI standards and NESC requirements.
  • Develop equipment, installation, and maintenance specifications.
  • Coordinate and review work of engineering consultants and collaborate with Operations personnel and contractors.
  • Review and approve engineering drawings and submittals for completeness and accuracy.
  • Develop and maintain substation and transmission line equipment ratings, fault studies, relay reviews/settings, and line clearance/operating orders.
  • Evaluate and improve electric system design, construction, maintenance standards, and specifications.
  • Recommend establishment or adjustments to equipment maintenance schedules.

System Planning & Analysis

  • Prepare system planning and operational studies, including:
    • Construction Work Plans
    • Long-Range Plans
    • Sectionalizing Studies
  • Maintain and update electric system models for engineering analyses such as:
    • Voltage drop
    • Fault current
    • Protective device coordination
  • Analyze SCADA data, relay reports, substation readings, and system simulations to identify reliability issues and recommend improvements.
  • Download and manage event and load data from protective relays and recloser controls; maintain related databases.

Compliance & Reliability

  • Ensure construction, operation, and maintenance activities align with:
    • Cooperative Safety Handbook
    • Good engineering practices
    • NESC and NEC requirements
    • NERC reliability standards
  • Serve as Subject Matter Expert (SME) for assigned NERC standards; may also serve as Area Manager (AM) for compliance areas.
  • Collaborate with the Reliability Compliance Officer and leadership to implement Environmental and Reliability Standards.
  • Review proposed Reliability Standards and provide recommendations affecting the Cooperative.
  • Ensure compliance with approved procedures and report suspected violations appropriately.

Collaboration & Operational Support

  • Assist in response to outages and system emergencies.
  • Partner cross-functionally to support safe, efficient system operations.
  • Mentor less-experienced engineers and contribute to team development.

Safety

  • Maintain and promote a high degree of safety in all work performed.

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