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Grid Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Grid Integration Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$70K - $95K/yr

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power ... Position Overview The Grid Integration Engineer I will be responsible for the electrical ...

Machine Operator

Freeport, IL · On-site

$20.95 - $22.50/hr

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Machine Operator

Freeport, IL · On-site

$22.50/hr

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Machine Operator

Freeport, IL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

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... with operators and Operations Manager. Keep landfill management apprised on any community ... Ensure the accuracy of waste disposed of in proper areas (grid reports). Accountable for various ...

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Freeport, IL · On-site

$20.95 - $22.50/hr

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Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Freeport, IL · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

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... grid reports). • Accountable for various environmental compliance tasks Requirements: • High School Diploma or general education degree (GED) • One to three months related experience and/or ...

Production Line Operator

Du Quoin, IL · On-site

$22.68 - $39.96/hr

... grid, electricity and digital solutions. From underground and submarine cables and systems for ... The Machine Operator is responsible for the day-to-day duties in running equipment to produce ...

Heat Treat Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Freeport, IL · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

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Showing results 41-60

Grid Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do grid operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for grid operator in Illinois is $17.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $18.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 cities in Illinois are hiring for Grid Operator jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Grid Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Grid Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,655 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Grid Integration Engineer I

Invenergy LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$70K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Invenergy rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power infrastructure. With 25 years of trusted execution, we deliver reliable, affordable energy through a diverse portfolio that includes natural gas, solar, land-based wind, energy storage, transmission, and domestic manufacturing. Headquartered in Chicago, we develop, own, and operate large scale projects that power communities and support the energy future.

This position will be open for application for at least 3 calendar days from the posting date. This position will remain open for application based on business need, which may be before or after the 3-day posting window.

Job Description

Position Overview

The Grid Integration Engineer I will be responsible for the electrical engineering and commissioning of cutting-edge High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Converter Stations. This position will be primarily responsible for support and oversight of the project's Control & Protection (C&P) systems, through the design, manufacturing, testing and delivery phases. This will entail working closely with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Owner's Engineers to ensure C&P detailed design, manufacturing, testing (hardware and software), and commissioning is performed in accordance with Invenergy standards. This will also entail detailed review of all OEM design and performance studies, as well as support of all HVDC grid interconnection studies and activities.

The position is based out of Invenergy's office in downtown Chicago, IL.

Responsibilities

  • Engineering Responsibility:

    • Conduct thorough design review of OEM submittals, including equipment drawings, datasheets, test plans, test reports, and more.

    • Review Project SLD, layouts, general arrangements, etc.

    • Review and track C&P hardware and software design and testing activities, including review of all plans and reports, and witnessing tests as needed

    • Define the scope of required system design, performance, and interconnections studies, and review results for accuracy, compliance, and other impacts to Project design

    • Track C&P design progress, update all stakeholders and ensure that critical dates related to C&P equipment are met on time

    • Coordinate with operations team to ensure a smooth project turnover, with all inputs from the HVDC OEM received and lessons learned incorporated prior to project turnover

  • Procurement and Construction Support:

    • Monitor project construction, installation, testing, and commissioning progress both remotely and via on-site inspections, support resolution of any field issues. Attend on-site meetings as needed with contractors.

    • Witness factory acceptance testing for Control & Protection Systems

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Power Systems

  • 1-2+ years of work experience in the Power industry, including internships

  • Knowledge of power systems and control systems, acquired through specific coursework and internships

  • Understanding of HV electrical infrastructure (transmission lines, transformers, substations/switchyards, etc.)

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills

  • Strong problem-solving and analytical capabilities with a focus on achieving results

  • Ability and willingness to travel up to 25%

  • Valid driver's license

  • Eligible to work in the United States without the need for employer visa sponsorship now or in the future

Preferred Qualifications

  • Working knowledge of Power Electronics, HVDC systems, Control & Protection, SCADA, and associated equipment

  • Knowledge of power systems control and protection a plus

  • Experience with power systems simulation tools such as PSSE, PSCAD, RTDS

  • HVDC project experience, especially direct experience with HVDC OEM's or construction partners

  • Experience with design, engineering, and construction of energy infrastructure projects

Base Pay

$70,000.00 - $95,000.00 USD Annual
Bonus: 15%

The base pay range reflects the minimum and maximum target salary for the position. Invenergy considers a number of factors when determining base pay offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education and skills.
In addition to base pay, the total annual compensation package may also include eligibility to participate in our bonus program(s) which are designed to reward individual and company performance. Your recruiter can share more about bonus eligibility for this position during the hiring process.
Invenergy offers a variety of other benefits including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401k, paid time off, etc.

Invenergy LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, among other things, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or disability.


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