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Ibew Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Stock Helper

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$32.43/hr

... 75% Operating Machinery 51-75% Outdoors 51-75% Union - IBEW Local 50 VA/NC/WVA Test Description No Testing Required Export Control Certain positions at Dominion Energy may involve access to ...

Stock Helper

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$32.43/hr

... Operating Machinery 51-75% • Outdoors 51-75% • Union - IBEW Local 50 VA/NC/WVA Test Description No Testing Required Export Control Certain positions at Dominion Energy may involve access to ...

Ibew Operator information

What is an IBEW operator?

IBEW operators are skilled professionals who operate and maintain electrical systems, often working in power plants, substations, or control centers. They are members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), a labor union representing those in the electrical industry. IBEW operators are responsible for monitoring equipment, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring the safe and efficient distribution of electricity. Their work is critical to maintaining reliable power for homes and businesses. They typically undergo extensive training and must follow strict safety protocols.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an IBEW operator?

To thrive as an IBEW Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, safety protocols, and hands-on experience, often supported by completion of an apprenticeship and relevant union certifications. Familiarity with industry-specific tools like SCADA systems, electrical testing equipment, and compliance with OSHA regulations is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help operators respond to emergencies and coordinate with teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safe, reliable power operations and minimizing downtime in high-stakes environments.

What are common challenges faced by IBEW operators when working on large-scale electrical projects?

IBEW Operators working on large-scale electrical projects often face challenges such as coordinating with multiple trades, adhering to strict safety protocols, and troubleshooting complex electrical systems under tight deadlines. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as operators frequently collaborate with engineers, project managers, and other electricians to ensure tasks are completed safely and efficiently. Adapting to rapidly changing project requirements and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of evolving electrical codes and standards are also important aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Ibew Operator vs Electrician?

AspectIbew OperatorElectrician
CertificationsApprentice or journeyman card, OSHA safety trainingJourneyman or master electrician license, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, power plants, industrial facilitiesResidential, commercial, industrial wiring projects
Employer & Industry UsageUnion-based electrical construction companiesElectrical contracting companies, self-employed electricians

Both Ibew Operators and Electricians require safety training and certifications. Ibew Operators primarily focus on operating electrical equipment and machinery in construction and industrial settings, while Electricians handle wiring, installation, and maintenance of electrical systems. The roles often overlap in construction environments, but their core responsibilities differ, making each essential in different aspects of electrical work.

How to be an operator for IBEW?

To become an IBEW operator, you typically need to complete an apprenticeship program that combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training, usually lasting 3-5 years. Candidates must meet minimum age and education requirements, pass aptitude tests, and obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training and a commercial driver's license if required. Strong mechanical skills, physical fitness, and safety awareness are essential for success in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Ibew Operator jobs in Washington?

For Ibew Operator jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ibew Operator jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Ibew Operator jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Ibew Operator jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Ibew Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Ibew Operator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$65.85/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description
POSITION OVERVIEW:
Perform on a daily, ongoing basis a variety of audio technician and related IBEW technician duties to support WETA, PBS NewsHour and other productions as needed. Primary responsibilities include, but not limited to, control room board audio for live and taped network productions in the studio. Thorough knowledge of audio signals and optimization. Knowledge of field audio acquisition and technologies. This position is covered by the IBEW union contract.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Audio console operator for both live and taped multiple format studio productions using LAWO and SSL audio consoles.
• Validate remote guests from a variety of technology platforms.
• Expertise with RTS ADAM Intercom and proven experience making modifications/adjustments in AZedit.
• Comprehensive knowledge of current state of the art field audio gear and recording techniques.
• Work collaboratively, effectively and professionally with the technical team, producers, show directors and WETA/NewsHour employees.
• Performs other duties, as assigned in accordance with union jurisdiction.
CORE COMPETENCIES:
• Experienced in all aspects of audio production in both controlled and uncontrolled environments, especially as the lead audio technician (A-1).
• Familiar with the operation of LAWO and SSL audio consoles.
• Familiar with the operation of television production intercom systems and software including IFB's and telephone interfaces, and other technology/platforms utilized in broadcast production.
• Working knowledge of studio positions including; Studio and Robotic Cameras, Stage Manager and Transmission a plus.
• Must have the ability to work under pressure in live, fast-paced, ever-changing network environment. Must be able to think quickly, communicate well and keep pace with rapid-moving programming.
• The ability to quickly troubleshoot issues and make necessary modifications is required.
• Experience with AVID iNews a plus
• Must possess the skill set to discern subtleties in audio signals to maintain the highest quality control for everything related to audio and sound production.
ADDITIONAL SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
• Comprehensive knowledge of television production workflows and operations.
• Experience interfacing with on-air talent and effectively managing traffic flow during productions.
• Close and detailed oriented coordination with show directors, technical and editorial teams.
• Ability to communicate proactively and collaborate effectively with producers, directors, managers, and technicians with a high degree of professionalism at all times.
• Flexibility and adaptability to work on different assignments on a daily, or even hourly basis, and to work long and sometimes irregular shifts, and work holidays and weekends as necessary.
• Must be able to lift, carry and drag heavy loads ( > 50lbs. ).
EDUCATION:
? Minimum seven years of experience at a network, local station or equivalent as an audio broadcast technician (A-1 operator) in a live production environment.
LOCATION:
WETA and NewsHour Productions are Washington, DC established media and news organizations. We are a largely local workforce based out of the Campbell Place office in Arlington, VA. WETA and NewsHour Productions value employee flexibility when possible. Most positions based in our Arlington, VA office will be onsite or hybrid, depending upon the role.
COMPANY OVERVIEW:
WETA, the flagship public media station in the nation's capital, produces and distributes content that informs, inspires, and enriches lives.
As the second-largest producing station for the public media system, WETA creates programming to explore history, arts, and culture, partnering with acclaimed filmmakers such as Ken Burns and Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr. National WETA productions include The American Revolution and Finding Your Roots, among many others. WETA is also home to PBS News, the primary daily, breaking, and special news producer for PBS. Its broadcast productions include PBS News Hour, Washington Week with The Atlantic, Horizons from PBS News, and Compass Points from PBS News, as well as specials, documentaries, and a robust footprint across digital platforms.
Locally, WETA serves audiences across Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland, through television, radio, and digital platforms. Audiences access WETA on broadcast channels WETA PBS, WETA UK, WETA Metro, WETA World, and WETA PBS Kids, and digitally through the free streaming platform WETA+. Listeners tune into WETA Classical, the exclusive home for classical music in the Greater Washington area, via radio, online, and the WETA Classical app. Benefits | WETA
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:
WETA and NewsHour Productions are equal opportunity employers committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and internships. WETA and NewsHour Productions make hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.