1

Lead System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

System Operator

Queensbury, NY · On-site

$88K - $100K/yr

System Operator - US Operations, NSCC Location: Queensbury, NY Join one of the largest renewable ... We offer unparalleled opportunity to lead and manage one of the largest renewable energy businesses ...

System Operator

Queensbury, NY · On-site

$88K - $100K/yr

System Operator - US Operations, NSCC Location: Queensbury, NY Join one of the largest renewable ... We offer unparalleled opportunity to lead and manage one of the largest renewable energy businesses ...

TRANSMISSION SYSTEM OPERATOR

Hughesville, MD · On-site

$81.10K - $105.20K/yr

The primary function of the Transmission System Operator is to learn and participate in the safe ... concentrate may lead to unnecessary mistakes, equipment damage, or even bodily harm 3) ...

This is a working lead position. Responsibilities * Responsible for the proper, complete and safe ... Safety analysis of the system. * Maintain the filling rate to an acceptable level, and train others ...

OPERATOR III - Lead Under general supervision functions in a lead capacity, guiding lower-level ... Perform complex water system mechanical and electrical troubleshooting. Perform water system ...

The Lead System Analyst will create new policies and standard operating procedures to ensure technical projects deliver the needed results on time, within budget, with the needed requirements, with ...

Water System Operator

San Luis, AZ · On-site

$21.04 - $26.60/hr

OPERATOR III - Lead Under general supervision functions in a lead capacity, guiding lower-level ... Perform water system tapping and flow/pressure tests. * Maintain AZ 811 - Blue Stake Locator and ...

Lead System Engineer

Plano, TX

$158.20K - $237.40K/yr

... and operating customer-facing systems; building and maintaining web applications using HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript; performing incident management and utilizing Root Cause Analysis methodologies ...

District Operator in Training

Hicksville, NY · Hybrid

$19 - $23/hr

Union Local IBEW 1049 Summary Under the general supervision of the NERC certified Principal and Lead System Operator, the District Operator is responsible for the safe, reliable and effective ...

Water System Operator I, II, III

Draper, UT · On-site

$21.11 - $42.61/hr

... Water Crew Lead works with assigned crew in one or more of the following areas: construction ... Water System Operator I: * Education - High school diploma or G.E.D. * Experience - Any work ...

Lead System/Solution Architect The Lead System/Solution Architect is a senior technology leader ... Ensure solutions are scalable, resilient, secure, and aligned with enterprise operating and support ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Lead System Operator information

See salary details

$10

$32

$83

How much do lead system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead system operator in the United States is $32.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $38.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead System Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead System Operator, you need a strong background in power systems operations, electrical engineering principles, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with energy management systems (EMS), SCADA platforms, and NERC certifications are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the reliable operation and coordination of complex power grid systems, maintaining system stability and compliance.

What are some typical challenges a Lead System Operator faces in coordinating with other departments during grid emergencies?

Lead System Operators often need to make rapid, high-stakes decisions during grid emergencies, which requires seamless coordination with teams in transmission planning, field operations, and control centers. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication and accurate information flow across departments to prevent missteps or delays. Building strong working relationships and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of procedures are crucial for effective collaboration. Additionally, managing stress and prioritizing tasks under pressure are key skills that help Lead System Operators navigate these situations successfully.

What are Lead System Operators?

Lead System Operators are professionals responsible for overseeing the operation of complex systems, such as electrical power grids or large-scale industrial processes. They monitor system performance, coordinate with teams to ensure stability, and respond to emergencies or unexpected issues. Their role often involves making real-time decisions to maintain safe and efficient operations, as well as training and supervising other operators. Lead System Operators play a critical part in ensuring that vital systems run smoothly and reliably.

What is the difference between Lead System Operator vs System Operator?

AspectLead System OperatorSystem Operator
CredentialsTypically requires certifications like NERC or industry-specific licensesMay require similar certifications but often at a basic level
Work EnvironmentSupervises operations, manages team, oversees system performanceMonitors and controls system operations, follows established procedures
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in power plants, grid management, and large-scale utilitiesFound in power generation, transmission, and distribution sectors

The main difference is that a Lead System Operator oversees and coordinates system operations, often supervising staff, while a System Operator primarily monitors and controls the system's daily functions. Both roles require similar certifications and work in related environments, but the Lead role involves additional leadership responsibilities.

More about Lead System Operator jobs
Infographic showing various Lead System Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,988 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

Associate System Operator

IPL (Indiana)

Indianapolis, IN

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Are you ready to be part of a company that's not just talking about the future, but actively shaping it? Join The AES Corporation (NYSE: AES), a Fortune 500 company that's leading the charge in the global energy revolution. With operations spanning 14 countries, AES is committed to shaping a future through innovation and collaboration. Our dedication to innovation has earned us recognition as one of the Top Ten Best Workplaces for Innovators by Fast Company in 2022. And with our certification as a Great Place to Work, you can be confident that you're joining a company that values its people just as much as its groundbreaking ideas.

AES is proudly ranked #1 globally in renewable energy sales to corporations, and with $12.7B in revenues in 2023, we have the resources and expertise to make a significant impact as we provide electricity to 25 million customers worldwide. As the world moves towards a net-zero future, AES is committed to meeting the Paris Agreement's goals by 2050. Our innovative solutions, such as 24/7 carbon-free energy for data centers, are setting the pace for rapid, global decarbonization.

If you're ready to be part of a company that's not just adapting to change, but driving it, AES is the place for you. We're not just building a cleaner, more sustainable future - we're powering it. Apply now and energize your career with a true leader in the global energy transformation.

Under the general supervision of the Lead System Operator and Team Leader of System Operations, the Associate System Operator acting under the direction of the Lead System Operator is responsible for the safe, stable,
reliable, economical and environmentally correct operation of the Bulk Electric System.

This responsibility extends from the generating station substations through the distribution substations. The Associate System Operator is responsible for complying with NERC, FERC, RFC, IURC and MISO requirements and directing field personnel through switching operations involving the Bulk Electric System.


Primary Responsibilities:

  • Assists in a training capacity for the direct operation of the bulk electric system.

  • Assists the field switching operations performed by authorized personnel including Substation Inspectors/Switchmen, Substation Mechanics, Electricians, line Techs, Relay/SCADA Specialists, Trouble Techs and any other classification that may be required to operate equipment on the bulk electric system.

  • During emergency operating conditions, the Associate System Operator works with department management to take the necessary actions to protect the transmission system integrity, prevent loss of life and minimize damage to transmission system components.

  • Participates in conferring with the Lead System Operator and other System Operations management personnel regarding matters affecting the operation of the bulk electric system and with the operation personnel of the interconnected utilities on a twenty-four hour basis, exchanging information necessary to maintain good interconnected procedures.

  • Monitors system conditions for issues affecting bulk electric system reliability and recommends immediate corrective actions when abnormalities are detected to department management.

Basic Requirements:

  • Associates degree showing an aptitude for math and electrical theory, to include previous work experience demonstrating basic electrical utility knowledge, or equivalent combination of education and/or experience related to the discipline.

  • High degree of electrical and mechanical aptitude.

  • Available for all System Operations shifts (24-7).

  • Ability to pass NERC Certification exam within 6 months

Preferred Skills:

  • Current NERC Certification

  • Electric Utility experience in transmission and/or distribution operations.

  • Computer proficiency and effective verbal and written communication skills are requirements.

  • Ability to work in a real-time operations environment on all shifts and as a team member.

  • Understanding of power substation equipment, power system electrical fundamentals, and the ability to interpret substation one-line diagrams and electrical schematics.

  • Successfully pass pre-screening EEI exam System Operator/Power Dispatch (SOPD) preferred.

  • Electric utility job related experience or training

AES is an Equal Opportunity Employer who is committed to building strength and delivering long-term sustainability through diversity and inclusion. Respecting all backgrounds, differences and perspectives enables us to improve the lives of our people, customers, suppliers, contractors, and the communities in which we live and work. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and/or expression, race, national origin, ethnicity, age, religion, marital status, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical condition, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law. E-Verify Notice: AES will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employee's I-9 to confirm work authorization.