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Electric System Operator Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Electra

Principal Electrical Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call ... Lead the design, analysis, integration, and testing of electrical systems for our hybrid-electric ...

Electra

Principal Electrical Engineer

Manassas, VA · Hybrid

$150K - $180K/yr

Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call ... Lead the design, analysis, integration, and testing of electrical systems for our hybrid-electric ...

Sonepar

Reach Truck Operator

Upper Marlboro, MD · On-site

$22/hr

Capital Electric offers electrical products and services to contractors. If it helps bring ... system. Key Responsibilities * Material Handling: Moving pallets of wire and stage in shipping ...

Sonepar

Reach Truck Operator

Upper Marlboro, MD

$22/hr

Capital Electric offers electrical products and services to contractors. If it helps bring ... system. Key Responsibilities * Material Handling: Moving pallets of wire and stage in shipping ...

Asplundh Tree Expert

Bucket Operator Union

Herndon, VA

$16.93 - $23.61/hr

A Bucket Operator operates an aerial lift device (bucket truck) to reach branches interfering with electric lines. Are you a real go-getter looking for an amazing opportunity with a nationwide full ...

Asplundh

Bucket Operator Union

Herndon, VA · On-site

A Bucket Operator operates an aerial lift device (bucket truck) to reach branches interfering with electric lines. Are you a real go-getter looking for an amazing opportunity with a nationwide full ...

Helix Electric

Unlicensed Electrician

Manassas, VA

$23.50 - $32/hr

Helix Electric has need for a dynamic Electrician . The successful electrician will be part of a ... wiring systems in commercial settings. * Prepares work area for installation of equipment.

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Electric System Operator information

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How much do electric system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for electric system operator in Washington, DC is $47.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.19 and $51.15 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

What are the most commonly searched types of Electric System Operator jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Electric System Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:

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

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The top searched job categories for Electric System Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:

Electric System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electric System Operator job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,654 per year, or $47.9 per hour.

Principal Electrical Engineer

Electra

Manassas, VA • On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Job Description
Job Description

About Electra

At Electra, we're building the EL9 — a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.

A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matters at this stage — and this role is no exception.

The Role

Electra is actively recruiting a Principal Electrical Engineer to lead the design and development of high-voltage and low-voltage electrical systems for our 9-passenger eSTOL (electric short takeoff and landing), hybrid-electric aircraft. This position focuses on design, prototyping, integration, and testing and as such is based in Manassas, Virginia.

What You'll Do

  • Lead the design, analysis, integration, and testing of electrical systems for our hybrid-electric aircraft. This role has the potential to support the development of a number of aircraft electric systems and equipment, including avionics, power distribution (low voltage and high voltage), power electronics, electrical energy storage, and electric machines.
  • Understand program objectives and requirements to conduct trade studies and define architectures, requirements, and interfaces between systems.
  • Develop and manage requirements for the electrical systems and equipment, compatible with the program-level safety, performance, certification, and business objectives.
  • Support the evaluation and selection of electrical equipment suppliers. Provide subject matter expert review and oversight throughout the development process.
  • Prepare and present gated design reviews to demonstrate the adequacy of the design.
  • Manage and provide hands-on support for electrical system integration and test activities.
  • Collaborate with program management, other IPTs, and functional groups to accomplish team goals.
  • Other Duties as assigned.

What You Bring

  • Experience in the development of aerospace electrical systems, hybrid-electric propulsion and/or avionics systems.
  • Proficient with general-purpose test and build equipment/tools (oscilloscope, multimeter, soldering iron).
  • A strong work ethic and ability to independently meet and lead the areas described in the responsibilities and essential functions.
  • Excellent organization and communication skills.
  • Ability to adapt well to change.
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, aerospace, or a related field; and
  • 12+ year of experience in relevant discipline areas or an equivalent combination of education, skills and experience.

Bonus Points

  • Master's or PhD degree in relevant engineering discipline strongly desired.
  • Expertise in the area of high power hybrid-electric and/or fully electric propulsion systems and power electronics.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), certification procedures (especially Part 23), and relevant industry standards.
  • Experience with implementing and troubleshooting digital communications architectures (i.e. RS422, CAN, Ethernet, and ARINC429).
  • Experience with grounding schemes for large and complex electrical systems.
  • US Person (Citizen or Green Card) Preferred

This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.

Compensation Range
$150,000—$180,000 USD

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary and equity
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
  • Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
  • Paid winter break
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting
  • Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters
  • Free on-site parking

Electra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This position may be subject to ITAR requirements.

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