1

Nerc System Operator Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

NERC's jurisdiction includes users, owners, and operators of the bulk power system, which serves nearly 400 million people. This position is for a Physical Security Analyst within the Electricity ...

Demonstrated proficiency with Windows and Linux operating systems, Microsoft Office Suite ... Basic understanding of NERC CIP standards. * Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Senior Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$111K - $147K/yr

Support NERC MOD-026 and MOD-027 submissions and respond to ISO/RTO model review comments alongside ... General awareness of UL 9540 / UL 9540A for BESS systems. Preferred Qualifications * HIL testing ...

This role will also have responsibilities pertaining to operating thermal assets. Responsibilities ... Support technical audits, annual inspections, and NERC or environmental compliance as applicable.

... operator training, historian and engineering workstations, and related Electric Operations systems ... NERC CIP standards. - Effective written and verbal communication skills. - Ability to work with ...

This role monitors plant systems, leads root cause investigations, manages engineering and capital ... Support compliance with NERC reliability standards, environmental permits, and applicable ...

This role monitors plant systems, leads root cause investigations, manages engineering and capital ... Support compliance with NERC reliability standards, environmental permits, and applicable ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Nerc System Operator information

See Washington, DC salary details

$12

$37

$94

How much do nerc system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for nerc system operator in Washington, DC is $37.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $43.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a NERC System Operator?

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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a NERC System Operator?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Nerc System Operator jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Nerc System Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Nerc System Operator jobs in Washington, DC?

For Nerc System Operator jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Nerc System Operator jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Nerc System Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Nerc System Operator job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,003 per year, or $37 per hour.

TRANSMISSION SYSTEM OPERATIONS MANAGER

SMECO

Hughesville, MD • On-site

$105K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative has an immediate opening for a Transmission System Operations Manager. This position manages activities with NERC and PJM standards and regulations applicable to Transmission System Operations, per SMECO's NERC registration. The candidate will manage all day-to-day functions of the Transmission Operations Division to provide safe and reliable operation of the 230kV and 69kV transmission systems and substations. This position will also manage the operation and administration of the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and the Energy Management System (EMS) system along with the operation and administration of the Integrated Tools for Operations Application (iTOA) to ensure proper record keeping of all communications and operating actions. Lastly, this position will develop and maintain procedures to support SCADA/EMS and field switching activities of all Transmission & Substation Operations and Electric Operations & Construction personnel while performing substation and transmission system construction, maintenance, and outage restoration in accordance with SMECO, NESC and NERC safety requirements.
This position requires a four-year college degree in electrical engineering. Must have and maintain applicable NERC System Operator Certification. Proficient computer and application skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.) are also required. The candidate must have a minimum of six years' progressive experience in the operation, construction and maintenance of electric utility systems. System operations experience required.
The starting salary range for this position is $105,500 - $142,000. SMECO offers an excellent benefits program including a 401(k) 6% dollar for dollar match and an additional 3% non-elective company contribution.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
SMECO champions a culture where people are valued and the employee experience is driven by innovation, collaboration, inclusion, safety and trust. Interested candidates should apply via SMECO's website at www.smeco.coop/about/careers.