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Power System Dispatcher Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Engineer will be the primary driver of power system modeling, simulation, and controls analysis ... This includes evaluating control behavior during mode transitions, black start, dispatch ...

The Engineer will be the primary driver of power system modeling, simulation, and controls analysis ... This includes evaluating control behavior during mode transitions, black start, dispatch ...

Strong understanding of power system principles, including power flow, short circuit analysis, transient stability, and economic dispatch. * Proficiency in power system analysis software and ...

Strong understanding of power system principles, including power flow, short circuit analysis, transient stability, and economic dispatch. * Proficiency in power system analysis software and ...

Power Dispatcher

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$114K - $150K/yr

... Power Dispatcher to sustain continuity of service demands through transmission and distribution ... Additionally, the successful candidates will operate the Pasadena Water Department's SCADA system.

Our power sweeping solutions include sweeping parking lots, streets, and highways as well as ... where we can perform collection, system preventive maintenance cleaning, and identify ...

Dispatcher - Part-Time

San Jose, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Our power sweeping solutions include sweeping parking lots, streets, and highways as well as ... where we can perform collection, system preventive maintenance cleaning, and identify ...

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Power System Dispatcher information

See California salary details

$23.7K

$113.8K

$162.3K

How much do power system dispatcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for power system dispatcher in California is $113,768.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,600.00 and $136,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a power system dispatcher?

A power system dispatcher directs the distribution of electricity between providers and consumers, both residential and commercial. As a power system dispatcher, you monitor generator systems to ensure optimal efficiency and determine how much power is needed for each day. Discretion is particularly vital during extreme weather conditions, such as heat waves or snowstorms. Other job duties include responding to calls of shortages or repairs and coordinating crews out to the location to fix the problem.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a power system dispatcher?

To thrive as a Power System Dispatcher, you need a strong understanding of electrical power systems, grid operations, and typically an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, energy management software, and NERC certification are commonly required for this role. Excellent decision-making, communication, and stress management skills help dispatchers respond effectively to emergencies and coordinate with various teams. These skills are essential to ensure the reliable and safe distribution of electrical power, minimize outages, and maintain grid stability.

What are some common challenges faced by power system dispatchers during emergency situations?

Power System Dispatchers often encounter high-pressure challenges during emergencies such as power outages, severe weather events, or unexpected equipment failures. In these situations, they must quickly analyze real-time data, coordinate with field crews and other utilities, and make fast, accurate decisions to restore service and ensure grid stability. Effective communication, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and a thorough understanding of grid operations are crucial for managing these scenarios successfully. Many organizations provide ongoing training and simulations to help dispatchers prepare for these demanding situations.

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

AspectPower System DispatcherPower Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical engineering or related field; certifications like NERC operator certification are commonHigh school diploma or technical training; certifications vary by plant and state
Work EnvironmentControl centers, monitoring grid operations, coordinating power flowPower plant facilities, operating equipment, maintaining plant systems
Industry UsageUtility companies, grid operators, regional transmission organizationsPower generation facilities, independent power producers
Common Search/ComparisonPower System Dispatcher vs Power Plant Operator

The Power System Dispatcher primarily monitors and manages the electrical grid, ensuring reliable power flow across regions. In contrast, the Power Plant Operator focuses on running and maintaining specific power generation equipment within a plant. While both roles require technical knowledge and safety certifications, their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly, with dispatchers working in control centers and plant operators working on-site at power plants.

What are the most commonly searched types of Power System Dispatcher jobs in California?

The most popular types of Power System Dispatcher jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Power System Dispatcher jobs in California?

For Power System Dispatcher jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Power System Dispatcher jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Power System Dispatcher jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Power System Dispatcher jobs?

Cities in California with the most Power System Dispatcher job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Power System Dispatcher jobs in CA?

For Power System Dispatcher jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Power System Dispatcher job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $113,768 per year, or $54.7 per hour.

UTILITIES ELECTRIC POWER SYSTEM DISPATCHER I or II

City of Riverside

Riverside, CA • On-site

$62.46 - $75.94/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


City Of Riverside (California) rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 849 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

The Position The City of Riverside, Public Utilities Department (RPU) is accepting applications for the position of Utilities Electric Power System Dispatcher I or II to fill one (1) vacancy in the Electric Division. The eligibility list established may be used to fill the current and/or upcoming vacancies within this classification for up to six (6) months. Under lead supervision, a Utilities Electric Power System Dispatcher I will assist in the operation and minor repair of an electric Power system on an assigned shift; and to do related work as required.

Salary Range = $56.22 per hour - $68.34 per hour. Under general supervision, a Utilities Electric Power System Dispatcher II will perform skilled and lead work in the operation of electrical power system on an assigned shift, and to do related work as required. Salary Range = $62.46 per hour - $75.94 per hour

Work Performed Duties for a Utilities Electric Power System Dispatcher I may include, but are not limited to, the following: Operate and maintain electric substations on an assigned shift; monitor, control and regulate the transmission and distribution of electric power; make quick and concise observations of the condition of lines and equipment during emergency conditions; use judgment to adjust voltages and distribution of power, open and close disconnect switches, short and ground transmission lines and equipment, and place and remove clearance tags on equipment and switches. Monitor and control the electric transmission and distribution system through SCADA control console; operate circuit breakers; operate high voltage equipment and circuits and related operations; take steps necessary to restore electric service as soon as breakdowns of defective conditions have been identified or corrected; notify authorized persons of emergency condition. Write switching programs; operate radio base station; analyze the public's complaints of electrical, water and street light problems to determine the corrective action required; monitor Water Division SCADA terminal; dispatch water troubleshooters and pump operators after hours; dispatch field personnel for after-hours water and electric service connections, disconnects and reconnects; maintain a log of operation of the system.

Duties for a Utilities Electric Power system Dispatcher II may include, but are not limited to, the following: Monitor, control and regulate the transmission and distribution of electrical power; make quick and concise observations of the condition of lines and equipment during emergency conditions; use judgment to adjust voltages and distribution of power, open and close disconnect switches, short and ground transmission lines and equipment, and place and remove clearance tags on equipment and switches. Has responsibility and jurisdiction for de-energizing lines and equipment for the issuance of clearances and holds to field crews; dispatch instructions to field crews to perform switching operations at substations, on transmission and distribution lines during normal and emergency conditions; monitor and control the electric transmission and distribution system through SCADA control console; operate circuit breakers; operate high voltage equipment and circuits and related operations; take necessary to restore electric service as soon as breakdowns or defective conditions have been identified or corrected; notify authorized persons of emergency condition. Write switching programs; operate radio base station; analyze the public's complaints of electrical, water, and street light problems to determine the corrective action required; monitor Water Division of SCADA terminal; dispatch water troubleshooters and pump operators after hours; dispatch field personnel for after- hours water and electric service connections; disconnects and reconnects; maintain a log of operation of the system.

May train subordinate Electric Power System Dispatcher I on an assigned shift. Qualifications Qualifications for a Utilities Electric Power System Dispatcher I: Education: High school graduation or satisfactory equivalent (GED). Some college level courses related to the principles and operation of an electric power system and its components is highly desirable.

Experience: Three years of experience in the field of electrical engineering and/or high voltage electrical work. Necessary Special Requirements: Ability to work rotating shifts as assigned in a 24/7/365 environment. Upon hire, enrollment in the Utilities Electric Power System Dispatcher training program.

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid Class "C" California Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Highly Desired Qualifications: Qualified person (QP) or qualified electrical worker (QEW) experience locally operating substation equipment, such as circuit breakers, disconnects, station grounds, load tap changers, capacitor banks, and various controls and ancillary devices related to an electric sub-transmission system. Detailed understanding of safety precautions, practices, procedures, and regulations for the operation of electric transmission and distribution systems.

Qualifications for a Utilities Electric Power System Dispatcher II: Education: High School graduation or satisfactory equivalent (GED). Completion of a course of study or certification including courses specifically related to the principles and operation of an Electrical Power System and its components is desired. Experience: Option I: Four years of experience in the dispatching or the operation of an Electrical Power System.

Option II: Three years of experience in the field of electrical engineering and/or high voltage electrical work AND one year of experience performing duties equivalent to an entry level power system dispatcher assisting in the operation of an electric power system. Necessary Special Requirements: Ability to work rotating shifts as assigned in a 24/7/365 environment. Completion of the Utilities Electric Power System Dispatcher training program.

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid Class "C" California Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Selection Process DOCUMENTS REQUIRED AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION: 1) Completed Employment Application 2) Completed Supplemental Questionnaire FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ON COMPLETING YOUR ON-LINE APPLICATION, CLICK HERE: (Application Guide). The selection process will begin with an employment application package screening, with the best qualified candidates being invited to participate further in the assessment process.

This process may include any combination of written, performance, and oral assessments to evaluate job-related education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. Those who successfully complete the selection process will be placed on the eligibility list for this classification. IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON SCHEDULING ASSESSMENTS: If you are selected to move forward in the assessment process, you may be required to self-schedule your appointment.

You will be notified via email of your status and provided with self-scheduling instructions. Please check your email regularly following the closing date of this recruitment. Positions that require, or may require, a California Commercial Driver's License are considered Safety Sensitive and are monitored by the U.S

Department of Transportation. Any candidate being considered for a Safety Sensitive position must submit authorization forms to the City immediately upon request to begin the pre-employment process. It is the responsibility of candidates with a disability requiring accommodation in the assessment process to contact the Human Resources Department in writing to request such accommodation prior to the closing date of this recruitment.

Appointment may be subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, drug screen, and/or medical/physical examination. NOTE: The City reserves the right to modify selection devices and test instruments in accordance with accepted legal, ethical, and professional standards. Candidates may reapply when there is a posting to establish an eligibility list.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Proof of education listed in your application will be requested at the time of conditional offer. Acceptable documentation consists of transcripts or degree, if applicable, by the accredited U.S. college or university

Education obtained outside the United States (US) require one of the following options: An equivalency statement from an evaluation company certified by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) at http://www.naces.org/members.html or the Association of International Credential Evaluators Inc. (AICE) at http://aice-eval.org/members/. An advanced-level degree from an accredited US college or university

All applicants will be notified via e-mail or telephone of their application status and the assessment dates/times/locations after the closing date of this announcement. THE PROVISIONS OF THIS JOB ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT.


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