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Grid Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

California ISO

Sr Project Manager (Hybrid)

Folsom, CA · On-site

We safeguard the economy and well-being of 30 million Californians by operating the grid reliably 24/7. As the impartial grid operator, the California ISO opens access to the wholesale power market ...

California ISO

Sr Project Manager (Hybrid)

Folsom, CA · Hybrid

We safeguard the economy and well-being of 30 million Californians by operating the grid reliably 24/7. As the impartial grid operator, the California ISO opens access to the wholesale power market ...

California ISO

Sr Project Manager (Hybrid)

Folsom, CA · Hybrid

We safeguard the economy and well-being of 30 million Californians by operating the grid reliably 24/7. As the impartial grid operator, the California ISO opens access to the wholesale power market ...

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How much do grid operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for grid operator in California is $17.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a grid operator?

A Grid Operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling electrical power grids to ensure a stable and reliable electricity supply. They manage power flow, respond to system disturbances, and coordinate with power plants and substations to maintain grid stability. Grid Operators use specialized software and real-time data to balance electricity demand and supply. They follow strict protocols to prevent blackouts and restore power efficiently in case of outages. This role requires strong analytical skills, quick decision-making, and in-depth knowledge of electrical systems.

What does a grid operator do?

A typical shift for a Grid Operator usually involves monitoring the power grid, responding to changes in electricity demand, and coordinating maintenance or emergency responses. Operators work in control rooms, often as part of a rotating schedule that may include nights, weekends, or holidays to ensure 24/7 coverage. Daily tasks include analyzing system data, issuing instructions to field crews, communicating with utility partners, and recording detailed logs of events. You’ll collaborate with engineers, dispatchers, and other operators to maintain grid stability and quickly troubleshoot any issues that arise. This dynamic environment requires staying alert and ready to act decisively under pressure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a grid operator?

To thrive as a Grid Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical power systems, grid management principles, and typically an associate or bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with real-time monitoring software (such as SCADA systems), NERC certification, and standard operating procedures are commonly required. Strong decision-making skills, situational awareness, and effective communication are key soft skills for excelling in this role. These abilities are vital to ensure the reliable and safe operation of electrical grids, minimize outages, and coordinate effectively with multiple stakeholders.

What are popular job titles related to Grid Operator jobs in California?

For Grid Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Grid Operator jobs in California look for?

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What cities in California are hiring for Grid Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Grid Operator job openings:

Grid Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grid Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,331 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Sr Transmission Assets Engineer (Hybrid or Local Remote)

California ISO

Folsom, CA • On-site

Other

Vision, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Company Description
The California Independent System Operator (ISO) manages the flow of electricity across the high-voltage, long-distance power lines that make up 80 percent of California's power grid. We safeguard the economy and well-being of 30 million Californians by operating the grid reliably 24/7.
As the impartial grid operator, the California ISO opens access to the wholesale power market that is designed to diversify resources and lower prices. It also grants equal access to 25,865 circuit-miles of power lines and reduces barriers to diverse resources competing to bring power to customers.
The California ISO's function is often compared to that of air traffic controllers. It would be grossly unfair for air traffic controllers to represent one airline and profit from allowing that company's planes to go through before others. In the same way, the California ISO operates independently-managing the electron traffic on a power grid we do not own-making sure electricity is safely delivered to utilities and consumers on time and reliably.
The California ISO is committed to the health, safety, and work/life integration of it employees and is proud to offer flexible work arrangements. This position would be eligible to participate in a hybrid or local remote schedule.
Relocation Assistance is available.
Job Description
Under the general direction of the Director, Transmission Assets, works on complex engineering assignments and provides expertise in support of Transmission Asset activities. Ensures the ISO is in compliance with the Transmission Control Agreement (TCA) and is responsible for the implementation and enforcement of the ISO Transmission Maintenance Standards with respect to transmission facility (stations and associated equipment) maintenance. Partners with lead engineer to administer the Transmission Register and works with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the TR data is accurate. Supports the ISO planning process phase three competitive solicitation process.
What's In It For You?
  • An opportunity to work on interesting and challenging assignments involving the operations, maintenance, and planning of the California ISO controlled transmission system.
  • You will play a key role in the strategic vision of the California ISO.
  • Join an innovative organization that is working hard at keeping its reputation as a leader in the energy industry!

Your Work Would Consist Of:
  • Responsible for the implementation and enforcement of the ISO Transmission Maintenance Standards. Conducts maintenance reviews of each PTO's maintenance records and facilities. Analyzes results from the annual maintenance reviews, standard maintenance reporting system, and availability measures to identify any positive or negative trending, and makes appropriate recommendations to the ISO and PTOs that will result in overall improvements to grid reliability.
  • Reviews and approves equipment rating entries for the Transmission Register (TR) for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Provides substation expertise and joint oversight in implementing the ISO Transmission Planning Process Phase III competitive solicitation process.
  • Partners with and supports the Regional Transmission Engineering, Grid Operations, and others within the ISO to understand and resolve identified transmission facility related issues. Trains and mentors others concerning transmission facilities and their function. Resolves transmission facility maintenance related stakeholder issues.
  • In partnership with the lead transmission assets engineers, identifies areas to improve the functionality of the group and the overall department. Actively participates in staff meetings, and identifies improvements to department practices, policies and processes.
  • Ensures compliance with FERC, NERC and other regulatory requirements relating to transmission maintenance. Responsible for transmission facility compliance reporting requirements.

Qualifications
Level of Education and Discipline:
  • A Bachelor's degree (BA, BS) required in Engineering. Focus on electrical power systems preferred.

Amount of Experience:
  • Five (5) or more years related experience.

Certifications:
  • California Professional Engineering license preferred.

Type of Experience
  • Experience in high voltage Transmission Facility Equipment and Transmission Facility Maintenance or directly related experience.
  • Experience with California or other WECC transmission grid highly desired.
  • Experience in evaluating and reviewing technical proposals.
  • Experience working with, designing and maintaining protective relaying systems including preforming associated transmission systems event analysis highly preferred.
  • Must be proficient in standard office computer applications including MS Word, MS Access and MS Excel.
  • Experience or ability to learn and use other software applications including GIS mapping software applications desired

Additional skills and abilities:
  • Demonstrates a thorough knowledge of the Transmission Control Agreement, ISO Tariff, and policy issues concerning transmission facility maintenance.
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision and to perform effectively in high-pressure situations while maintaining focus and calmness.
  • Ability to provide timely professional assessments with limited information and/or assumptions, and to confidently act on decisions.
  • Must be able to work effectively in a team environment as a facilitator and team member.
  • Excellent analytical, presentation, written, and verbal communications skills required.
  • Must be able to explain technical information to non-technical audiences.
  • Ability to understand diverse interests and negotiate with interested stakeholders to meet corporate objectives is also required.
  • Must be able to handle a dynamic and changing work environment, and work well independently.

Typical Working Conditions:
  • The position requires travel within the ISO's footprint 3 to 7 times a year to inspect substation and high voltage equipment.

Additional Information
The pay range for this position is $116,925 - $163,695 annually.
All other levels may be considered with the right skillset and experience.
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply