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Electrical Grid System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Transmission System Operator I

Fairmont, WV · On-site

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

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 ...

Transmission System Operator - P

Akron, OH · On-site

$18 - $21.75/hr

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 ...

Transmission System Operator I

Fairmont, WV · On-site

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

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 ...

Transmission System Operator - P

Akron, OH

$18 - $21.75/hr

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 ...

System Operator

Longmont, CO · On-site

$51.44 - $61.49/hr

... grid to safe operating conditions. Essential Job Functions: * Monitors the electrical system power flows, automations, power quality and any system anomalies. Safely operates the SCADA software ...

... grid to safe operating conditions. Essential Job Functions: * Monitors the electrical system power flows, automations, power quality and any system anomalies. Safely operates the SCADA software ...

... grid to safe operating conditions. Essential Job Functions: * Monitors the electrical system power flows, automations, power quality and any system anomalies. Safely operates the SCADA software ...

Priority Power Management is seeking a Substation System Operator to join our Grid Infrastructure ... An associate's or bachelor's degree in Electrical Technology, Power Systems, Engineering Technology ...

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Electrical Grid System Operator information

See salary details

$51K

$98.3K

$164K

How much do electrical grid system operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for electrical grid system operator in the United States is $98,329.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,500.00 and $122,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an electrical grid system operator do?

An Electrical Grid System Operator is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining the flow of electricity across the power grid. They ensure that electricity supply meets demand, respond to outages or emergencies, and coordinate with power plants and substations to keep the grid stable. Their work is essential for preventing blackouts and ensuring reliable power delivery to homes and businesses. Grid operators use advanced computer systems and communication tools to track energy usage and manage power distribution in real time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an electrical grid system operator?

To thrive as an Electrical Grid System Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, grid operations, and typically a degree or certification in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, energy management software, and NERC certification is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills for managing real-time grid operations. These skills ensure the reliable delivery of electricity, quick response to emergencies, and optimal grid performance.

What are some common challenges faced by electrical grid system operators, and how can new hires effectively manage them?

Electrical Grid System Operators frequently encounter challenges such as balancing supply and demand, responding to unexpected outages, and adapting to real-time grid fluctuations. New hires can effectively manage these challenges by developing strong situational awareness, maintaining clear communication with other team members and field crews, and staying up-to-date with grid management technologies and protocols. Participating in ongoing training and simulation exercises can also prepare operators to react swiftly and confidently during high-pressure situations.

What is the difference between Electrical Grid System Operator vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectElectrical Grid System OperatorPower Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma, technical training, and industry certificationsHigh school diploma, technical training, and plant-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentControl rooms, switching stations, and control centers managing the gridPower plants, control rooms, and maintenance facilities
Industry UsageElectric utility companies, grid operators, and transmission companiesPower generation facilities, utility companies, and independent plants

Electrical Grid System Operators focus on managing and controlling the flow of electricity across the transmission network, ensuring stability and reliability. Power Plant Operators oversee the operation of power generation equipment within a plant. While both roles require technical skills and industry certifications, their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly, with grid operators managing the broader transmission network and plant operators focusing on power generation processes.

What cities are hiring for Electrical Grid System Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Electrical Grid System Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Electrical Grid System Operator jobs?

For Electrical Grid System Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Electrical Grid System Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,329 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Transmission System Operator I

Fairmont, WV • On-site

FirstEnergy Corp.
Utilities • 10K+ employees

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


FirstEnergy rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 54 rated energy and utility


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 Fairmont, WV
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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