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Power Distribution Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Iberdrola

Distribution Operator ECC

Vestal, NY

$51.20 - $57.54/hr

Distribution Operator ECC Number of Positions: 1 Location: NY-Binghamton ECC Hourly Rate: $51.20 ... This does not include those that will work for Avangrid Power. Avangrid employees may also be ...

Schreiber Foods, Inc.

Distribution Operator

Springfield, MO · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Warehousing & Distribution Forklift Distribution Operator DAYS Sunday-Wednesday 6a-4p NIGHTS Sunday ... Must be able to become power equipment operator certified and keep that certification on-going.

Iberdrola

Distribution Operator ECC

Vestal, NY · On-site

$51.20 - $57.54/hr

Distribution Operator ECC Number of Positions: 1 Location: NY-Binghamton ECC Hourly Rate: $51.20 ... This does not include those that will work for Avangrid Power. Avangrid employees may also be ...

Schreiber Foods, Inc.

Distribution Operator

Springfield, MO · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Warehousing & Distribution Forklift Distribution Operator DAYS Sunday-Wednesday 6a-4p NIGHTS Sunday ... Must be able to become power equipment operator certified and keep that certification on-going.

Schreiber Foods

Distribution Operator

Springfield, MO

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Warehousing & Distribution Forklift Distribution Operator DAYS Sunday-Wednesday 6a-4p NIGHTS Sunday ... power equipment operator certified and keep that certification on-going.Must be able to read, speak ...

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Power Distribution Operator information

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$51

How much do power distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for power distribution operator in the United States is $29.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Power Distribution Operator vs Power Line Technician?

AspectPower Distribution OperatorPower Line Technician
CertificationsOSHA safety training, CDL often preferredOSHA safety training, CDL often required
Work EnvironmentUtility substations, control rooms, distribution networksOutdoor, on poles, and underground lines
Employer & IndustryElectric utilities, power companies

Power Distribution Operators primarily work within utility control centers and substations, managing the flow of electricity and ensuring reliable distribution. Power Line Technicians focus on installing, maintaining, and repairing overhead and underground power lines outdoors. Both roles require safety certifications and are essential in the electric utility industry, but they differ mainly in work environment and specific duties.

What does a Power Distribution Operator do?

A Power Distribution Operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring the flow of electricity through transmission and distribution lines. They operate equipment to regulate voltage and ensure a stable and reliable supply of electricity to homes, businesses, and industries. Their duties also include responding to emergencies, coordinating with field crews, and maintaining safety protocols to prevent outages or hazards. This role is vital in keeping the power grid functioning efficiently and safely.

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

To thrive as a Power Distribution Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, grid operations, and safety protocols, typically supported by a high school diploma and specialized technical training. Familiarity with SCADA systems, relay protection devices, and sometimes NERC certification is essential for monitoring and controlling power distribution networks. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and clear communication are crucial for responding to emergencies and coordinating with team members. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, reliable power delivery and effective management of outages or system anomalies.

What are some common challenges faced by Power Distribution Operators, and how can they prepare for them?

Power Distribution Operators frequently encounter high-pressure situations, such as responding to unexpected outages, equipment failures, or severe weather events. These challenges require quick decision-making, attention to detail, and effective communication with team members and other departments. To prepare, operators benefit from thorough training on emergency procedures, regular simulations of crisis scenarios, and staying current with industry best practices. Building strong teamwork skills and remaining adaptable also help operators thrive in this dynamic environment.
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What job categories do people searching Power Distribution Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Power Distribution Operator jobs are:
Power Distribution Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Power Distribution Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,121 per year, or $29.4 per hour.
Assoc/Distribution Operator

Assoc/Distribution Operator

Berkshire Hathaway Energy

Urbandale, IA • On-site

$15.50 - $18/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Berkshire Hathaway Energy rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Under direction of a distribution operator or shift supervisor, the MidAmerican Energy Company associate distribution operator monitors and operates the 15 kV electric power system based on MidAmerican Energy Company operating standards and guidelines. The associate distribution operator provides support to the distribution operator and shift supervisor in the area of callouts, dispatching and other areas as directed. This position is intended to be a training position until the incumbent is fully qualified to operate the system independently as a distribution operator. After 8-12 months as an associate distribution operator, the employee's performance will be reviewed to see if he/she meets the minimum qualifications and performance standards for becoming a distribution operator. The associate distribution operator will be required to achieve proficiency and move to the distribution operator position within 12 months of starting training. Failure to meet these performance standards within 12 months will result in a six-month remedial period. At the end of the remedial period, the associate distribution operator will be evaluated for possible advancement to the distribution operator position. Proficiency will be determined by testing and observation.MidAmerican Energy Company, a Midwest utility, provides regulated electric and natural gas service to more than 1.6 million customers in Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota. The company owns and operates a portfolio of power-generating assets, approximately 61% of which is wind generation.MidAmerican Energy Company is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or religious creed, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status (except as required by law), gender (including gender identity and expression), sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, familial or parental status, marital status or any other category protected by applicable local, state or U.S. federal law. Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without an accommodation.

Bachelor or technical degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience. (Typically six years of related, progressive work experience would be needed for candidates applying for this position who do not possess a bachelor or technical degree.) 

Three years prior work experience in this field or a related field. Examples of related fields would be substation/transmission engineering and substation operations and field operations. 

One year of distribution experience is required. Knowledge of power system devices and operating characteristics and technical skills related to understanding energy control and switching is desired. 

Clearly articulate the key points of an issue, keep attention of others and take recipient's needs into account when speaking or writing. 

Ability to work systematically to analyze problems and issues, identify causes, anticipate implications and identify effective courses of action. 

Ability to coordinate construction or maintenance projects to maximize efficiency while ensuring continued reliability. 

Ability to resolve conflicting demands in a diplomatic manner while maintaining system integrity and reliability of service to our customers during outage periods. 

Ability to work a rotating shift. 

Effective oral and written communication skills. 

Effective analytical and problem-solving skills. 

Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks and projects concurrently.

Complete training to become fully qualified as a distribution operator within 12 months of starting the training program. 

Under direction, conduct real-time actions that ensure safe, reliable and economic operation of the 15 kV electrical system, beginning at the substation breaker and ending at the electric meter of the retail customer, by monitoring and responding to system disturbances involving distribution equipment and taking appropriate steps to restore service to customers and portions of the electrical system affected by the disturbance. (60-65%) 

Under direction direct emergency switching on the 15 kV electrical system. Restore service as safely and quickly as possible. Work closely with transmission operators to ensure that clear and open communication is present between both transmission and distribution electrical systems whenever an incident would occur or actions need to be taken. (20-25%) 

Operate the 15 kV distribution system according to good utility practice criteria and MidAmerican Energy Company operating standards and guidelines. (5-10%) 

Perform additional responsibilities as requested or assigned. (5-10%) Provide technical input to assist in development of project planning. (0-5%) 

Demonstration of knowledge and understanding of human performance improvement techniques. 

Evaluate present practices and implement processes, concepts, training and tools to prevent, detect and correct human errors that may adversely impact the safe, reliable operation of the electric transmission and distribution system.

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