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Nerc System Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Energy Scheduler

Denver, CO · On-site

$73K - $104K/yr

Creates and processes NERC Tags, uses OASIS to reserve and purchase transmission needed to support ... Create energy schedules for each Xcel regulated electric operating company and perform daily check ...

Energy Scheduler

Denver, CO · On-site

$73K - $104K/yr

Creates and processes NERC Tags, uses OASIS to reserve and purchase transmission needed to support ... Create energy schedules for each Xcel regulated electric operating company and perform daily check ...

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Nerc System Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$11

$34

$87

How much do nerc system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for nerc system operator in Colorado is $34.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $40.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Nerc System Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a NERC System Operator, you need a solid understanding of electric power systems, grid operations, and regulatory compliance, often supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field and the NERC certification. Familiarity with energy management systems (EMS), SCADA systems, and outage coordination tools is critical. Strong decision-making abilities, communication skills, and the capacity to perform under pressure help operators excel. These competencies ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the power grid in compliance with federal standards.

What is a typical workday like for a NERC System Operator?

A typical day for a NERC System Operator involves monitoring real-time grid conditions, responding to alarms, coordinating planned and unplanned outages, and communicating with field personnel and neighboring utilities to maintain system reliability. Operators often work in a control room setting, using advanced software and monitoring equipment to oversee power flows and facilitate rapid responses to disturbances. The role requires vigilance, as operators must be ready to take swift, decisive action during emergency events or system anomalies. Shifts may cover nights, weekends, and holidays due to the 24/7 nature of grid operations, but this dynamic environment also offers opportunities to develop specialized expertise and advance into senior roles within grid management or operations planning.

What is a NERC System Operator job?

A NERC System Operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling the electrical power grid to ensure a reliable and balanced flow of electricity. They follow North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) standards to prevent outages and respond to system disturbances. Operators communicate with power plants, substations, and other entities to manage grid stability and emergency situations. They typically work in real-time control centers and must be NERC-certified to perform their duties.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nerc System Operator jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Nerc System Operator jobs in Colorado are:
Infographic showing various Nerc System Operator job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 79% In-person, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,490 per year, or $34.4 per hour.
System Operator II or III

System Operator II or III

CORE Electric Cooperative

Sedalia, CO • On-site

$40.24 - $59.52/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

About CORE
CORE Electric Cooperative is the largest member-owned electric distribution cooperative in Colorado dedicated to providing reliable, affordable, clean, and safe electric service to our communities. With a commitment to innovation and member satisfaction, we strive to meet the evolving needs of our members while maintaining the highest standards of service excellence.
Job Summary
The System Operator II and System Operator III are responsible for the safe and reliable operation of CORE's Transmission and Distribution systems from the Primary or Backup Control Center. The System Operator II performs bulk electric system (BES) transmission tasks and coordinates normal and emergency operations and switching under the supervision of a System Operator III or Senior. The System Operator II and System Operator III will consistently work a 12-hour shift comprised of day or night hours according to the given weekly schedule.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Monitors and controls CORE's transmission and distribution system. Uses SCADA to monitor transmission line status, real and reactive power flows, and voltage per NERC requirements.
  • Coordinates and monitors switching and clearances on the transmission and distribution system, assigning and scheduling requests for clearing lines and equipment and issuing clearances and non-reclose orders.
  • Coordinates routine and emergency switching and operations in accordance with relevant CORE work practices and operating procedures.
  • Analyzes power outages via SCADA, Outage Management System (OMS) and field input. Develops and implements corrective actions. Operates CORE's OMS and reports issues to support.
  • Directs service crews and line crews by radio, telephone and the use of maps in isolating faults, troubleshooting, and restoring customer load.
  • Logs system and operation events, where required. Prepares reports and keeps records.
  • Calls in necessary personnel and dispatches crews as necessary during system emergencies and outages.
  • Answers telephone calls received in the Sedalia office outside of normal working hours and processes them properly.
  • Contacts proper authorities and requests emergency police, fire or medical equipment in the event of accidents, sabotage or vandalism to CORE facilities.
  • Informs CORE management of issues per the Supervisor On-call procedure.
  • Monitors alarms for radio repeaters, substations, building fire alarms, building security and security cameras. Takes appropriate actions as needed.
  • Attends internal and external NERC continuing education classes as needed to obtain or maintain NERC certification.
  • The System Operator III has the authority and responsibility to adhere to the requirements of NERC Reliability Standards and WECC Regional Reliability Standards.

Minimum Qualifications of System Operator II
  • High school diploma or equivalent certificate required
  • 3 or more years of practical experience with an electric utility.
  • Requires valid Colorado driver's license with satisfactory driving record within CORE standards.
  • Must obtain NERC certification as RC, TOP, or BITO within 18 months of employment. Satisfactory background check results required per NERC CIP.
  • Must obtain NERC certification as RC, TOP, or BITO within 18 months of employment.
  • Competent with position-specific software and applications.
  • Competent with Microsoft Office: Excel, Word, Outlook.
  • Competent with general office equipment.

Minimum Qualifications of System Operator III
  • High school diploma or equivalent certificate required.
  • 3 or more years of practical equivalent experience as an electric System Operator required. Willing to consider 5 years' experience in electric utility operations experience in substitute for System operator experience.
  • NERC certification as RC. TOP, or BITO required.
  • Requires a valid Colorado Driver's License with satisfactory driving record within CORE's standards.
  • Satisfactory background check results required per NERC CIP
  • Competent with position-specific software and applications.
  • Competent with Microsoft Office: Excel, Word, Outlook.
  • Competent with general office equipment.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements
  • Sedentary work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally and all other sedentary criteria are met.
  • None: The worker is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions (as in typical office or administrative work).

Note: This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed and is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned.
Application Timeline
The application deadline for this job is estimated to be 6/15/2026. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs, the availability of qualified candidates, and whether the role is filled or not. We encourage qualified candidates to submit their application(s) expediently so as not to miss out on opportunities.
CORE offers a comprehensive benefits package including the following...
  • 9/80 work schedule: every other Friday off!
  • Nine paid holidays per year
  • 160 Hours of accruable PTO per year
  • Paid parental leave
  • Education and training reimbursement
  • Volunteer paid time off
  • 100% Cooperative paid benefits, including:
    • Defined benefit pension plan
    • Medical insurance
    • Dental insurance
    • Vision insurance
    • Short term disability
    • Long term disability
    • Employee assistance program
    • Life insurance
    • HSA with employer contribution
  • 401(k) with up to 4% match. Immediately 100% vested
  • Length of service program
  • Free Onsite EV charging stations (at certain locations)
  • Onsite micro market (at certain locations)
  • Onsite gym with golf simulator and massage chairs (at certain locations)

CORE is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
  • EEO is The Law - click here for more information
  • Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled
  • We consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, handicap or disability, or status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran in accordance with federal law. If you need assistance, please reach out to us at hr@core.coop