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Power System Control Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Power System Operator, you're responsible for the safe operation of the distribution system and our Transmission system. This position identifies and initiates corrective action as needed in a ...

Power System Dispatcher

Watertown, SD · On-site

$117.82K/yr

Power plant or control center operator experience, where normal duties include direct SCADA control ... Power system operator experience equivalent to the AD-03 level with interconnected system ...

Power plant or control center operator experience, where normal duties include direct SCADA control ... Power system operator experience equivalent to the AD-03 level with interconnected system ...

Power System Dispatcher

Loveland, CO · On-site

$117.82K/yr

Power plant or control center operator experience, where normal duties include direct SCADA control ... Power system operator experience equivalent to the AD-03 level with interconnected system ...

Power plant or control center operator experience, where normal duties include direct SCADA control ... Power system operator experience equivalent to the AD-03 level with interconnected system ...

NERC Certified System Operator certificate minimum Experience: * Two years' progressively more responsible experience in generation and transmission operations or power system control minimum* Two ...

... System for the Alcoa Massena West Plant, and contracted Arconic high-voltage assets. This role ... Provide real-time operations, alarm response, and control for the BES Control Room, Rectifier ...

Conduct minute-to-minute monitoring and control of the bulk electric power system under normal operating conditions. * Analyze and evaluate system performance under abnormal conditions, determine ...

Provide realtime operations, alarm response, and control for the BES Control Room, Rectifier ... Act as backup to the Power System Supervisor for vacations, training, sick leave etc. * Lead ...

Control Operator

Plattsburgh, NY · On-site

$42.69 - $64.04/hr

Three or more years of power plant operation experience including full competency in outside operator job duties and distributed control systems experience; completion of or currently participating ...

NERC Certified System Operator certificate minimum Experience: * Two years' progressively more responsible experience in generation and transmission operations or power system control minimum * Two ...

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Power System Control Operator information

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$86.5K

$124.3K

$158.5K

How much do power system control operator jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for power system control operator in the United States is $124,340.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,000.00 and $141,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Power System Control Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical power systems, grid operations, and typically an associate degree or higher in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, energy management software, and NERC certification is often required. Strong decision-making skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set exceptional operators apart. These skills are crucial to ensuring the reliability, safety, and efficiency of power grid operations under both routine and emergency conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by Power System Control Operators during shift work, and how can they be managed?

Power System Control Operators often work rotating shifts to ensure 24/7 grid reliability, which can present challenges such as managing fatigue and maintaining focus during overnight or extended hours. Operators address these challenges by adhering to strict protocols, collaborating closely with team members, and participating in regular training to stay alert to system changes or emergencies. Effective communication and thorough shift handover processes also help to minimize errors and ensure smooth transitions between teams. Many organizations support operators with wellness programs and resources for maintaining work-life balance.

What are Power System Control Operators?

Power System Control Operators are professionals responsible for monitoring and controlling the flow of electricity through transmission and distribution networks. They work in control centers to ensure the reliable and safe delivery of power, respond to emergencies, and coordinate with other utility personnel to manage outages and maintenance. Their role is critical in maintaining the stability of the electrical grid and preventing blackouts. They use advanced computer systems and real-time data to make quick decisions that keep electricity supply and demand in balance.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Power System Control Operator can earn around $10,000 per month, especially with experience and specialized skills in electrical grid management and control systems. These roles often require technical training or certifications but not necessarily a college degree, and they involve monitoring and controlling power grid operations in a high-stakes environment.

What is the difference between Power System Control Operator vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectPower System Control OperatorPower Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires an associate degree or technical training, certifications vary by regionHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentControl rooms, monitoring electrical grids, working with SCADA systemsPower plants, operating machinery and equipment
Industry UsageElectric utilities, grid managementGeneration facilities, power plants

Power System Control Operators focus on monitoring and controlling electrical grids and systems, ensuring reliable power delivery. Power Plant Operators manage the operation of power generation equipment within power plants. While both roles require technical knowledge and safety protocols, Control Operators primarily work in control rooms overseeing grid stability, whereas Plant Operators work directly with plant machinery. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Power System Control Operator jobs
What states have the most Power System Control Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Power System Control Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Power System Control Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Power System Control Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Power System Control Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $124,340 per year, or $59.8 per hour.
System Control Operator

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday


Job description

Summary of Responsibilities:

Are you always at the ready? If so, ATC's Electric Transmission Grid Operator role might be for you ! ATC is looking for operators with positive energy to monitor the electric transmission system and respond to system disturbances by taking real-time actions. Our operators identify potential electric transmission system challenges, develop corrective action plans and implement those plans as needed to maintain the reliability of the electric transmission system. Electric transmission operators also keep field workers safe by performing system switching to de-energize elements of the transmission system when maintenance is required.
ATC operators work a combination of 12-hour rotating shifts and 8-hour training days during a six-week rotation. ATC has an extensive Operator training program so whether you are an experienced operator or new to the industry ATC is interested in exploring your interest in joining the ATC team. ATC also offers on-site training to help you obtain and maintain your NERC certification.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Utilize the Energy Management System (EMS) to monitor, control and direct the safe, stable and reliable operation of substation and transmission facilities on the ATC electrical power system.
  • Operate the ATC electrical power system in compliance with the standards, procedures, and guidelines established by FERC, NERC, applicable RROs, MISO and ATC. Adhere to regulatory standards of conduct and confidentiality agreements.
  • Monitor all critical aspects of the ATC electric transmission system including, but not limited to: system load, frequency, transmission line status, real and reactive power flows, voltage levels, transformer tap positions and loadings, status of rotating and static reactive resources, etc. Make immediate and appropriate response to system disturbances including, analysis and corrective action in response to events, alarms, or indicators signaling the disturbances.
  • During normal, emergency and restoration conditions, exercise the primary authority and responsibility to direct and implement real time actions, including shedding firm load. This response, when necessary, must be taken without obtaining approval from higher level personnel within the company.
  • Communicate with the Reliability Coordinator and other potentially affected parties (including Balancing Authorities, neighboring Transmission Operators, Generator Operators, Distribution Providers and Load Serving Entities) regarding conditions that could threaten the reliability of the Bulk Electric System or when firm load shedding is anticipated to ensure the stable and reliable operation of ATC's transmission system.
  • Comply with reliability directives from the Reliability Coordinator (MISO) unless such actions would violate safety, equipment, regulatory, or statutory requirements.
  • Issue reliability directives, as necessary, to Interconnected Entities such as: Balancing Authorities, Generator Operators, Distribution Providers and Load Serving Entities.
  • Obtain and maintain proficiency and understanding of the ATC Transmission Switching Clearance Procedure, work rules, and safety practices used in the applicable Control Center. Direct field-switching personnel for all switching on the ATC transmission system. Ensure switching is performed in a safe and reliable manner while arranging for the removal of lines for construction, maintenance, restoration of service, and installation of protective carding.
  • Ensure detailed records are maintained during shift and notify proper authorities of conditions needing their attention and in sufficient detail to satisfy various regulatory requirements (e.g. PSCW 113).
  • Perform, analyze and interpret system studies (including contingency analysis and power flows) during normal, emergency, and restoration conditions. Develop real time and contingent action plans from these studies.
  • Notify ATC Operations management during unusual system conditions or disturbances.
  • Assist in making decisions regarding planning, scheduling, and performing system work that may affect regional system reliability.
  • Coordinate and analyze transmission facility outage requests. Control and direct outage restoration efforts.
  • Develop and complete a personal annual training plan to maintain NERC certification and complete 32 hours of emergency training per year.
  • Perform other tasks, duties and projects as assigned.
  • May be called upon to serve before, during, and after a Transmission Emergency Response Plan (TERP) event; such event may require performing functions that are outside the scope of your regular job.
  • Demonstrate compliance with ATC's Code of Conduct, all company policies and procedures, and all laws and regulations that govern ATC

Note: While in training, an individual who has not completed new operator training and passed all final assessments may not independently fill a required operating position. Trainees may at times perform critical tasks under the direct, continuous supervision and observation of the NERC certified individual filling the required position.

Certification:

  • Must be certified as a NERC Reliability Operator; Balancing, Interchange and Transmission Operator; or Transmission Operator or be able to obtain certification within 12 months of employment; the NERC certification must be maintained as a condition of employment at ATC. Must be trained and verified as capable of performing all reliability related job tasks identified as being performed by the ATC System Control Operators, prior to management authorization to operate independently.

Education:

  • A two year technical degree in either Electrical Engineering Technology or Mechanical Engineering Technology is required; equivalent experience will be considered.
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering Technology or a related field is preferred.

Experience and Skills:

  • 5+ years of work in the electrical utility industry is a plus. Strong technical and mathematical aptitude. Excellent communication, organization, decision-making, and follow-up skills are a must for success in this role. Must be able to work for long periods of time with minimal supervision.

Language Requirement:

  • Must be fluent in the English language.

Physical Requirements:

  • Job duties require ability to lift 10 to 20 lbs. Ability to operate a computer in an office environment.
  • Ability to hear in at least one ear (aid permitted). Must be able to see clearly in a typical office environment using typical business equipment (glasses/corrective lenses are acceptable). Ability to recognize different shades of colors.

The targeted base pay for this position is $98,600 to $147,900 annually.* Base pay is one component of our comprehensive total rewards package which includes an annual incentive bonus, employer-sponsored pension plan, 401(k) match, HSA contribution, life & disability insurance, health care benefits, generous time off plans, flexible work arrangements, and much more. ("more" links to the Benefits Summary on the ATC Careers page)

*The pay range is a general guideline. Employment offers are evaluated individually and consider qualifications, experience, academic achievements, internal equity, and business needs. Pay exceeding the posted range is considered for uniquely qualified candidates. Interested internal candidates, with questions, please consult your Human Resources Business Partner.

Number of Openings Available:

0

Posting Date:

2026-05-27

Time Type:

Full time

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Applicants have rights under employment laws.

ATC is an equal opportunity employer that seeks to foster diverse teams of talented people working safely together. We respect and embrace diversity of all aspects and hire, train and promote employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, genetics, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage women, minorities, veterans and individuals with a disability to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to anycharacteristic protected by law.

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