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Power System Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... Must be able to work on electrical components up to 240 volt including wiring power to motors ...

Successful completion of the System Operator/Power Dispatching Selection System (SOPD) test is required for this position. A review of Employment Testing Information, Test-Taking Tips, and the SOPD ...

Must pass System Operator/Power Dispatching (SO/PD) test to qualify. Ability to work under pressure during periods of critical system conditions and to deal with diverse situations simultaneously.

Join The AES Corporation, the largest US-based global power company witha teamof 8,300employees ... Utilize the system model to simulate removing distribution elements from service and review ...

DCC Operator I

Harrison, OH · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

To be considered for this role, candidates must successfully pass the System Operator/Power Dispatching (SOPD) II test. Once selected for this role, all Operator I positions must successfully pass ...

DCC Operator I

Harrison, OH

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

To be considered for this role, candidates must successfully pass the System Operator/Power Dispatching (SOPD) II test.Once selected for this role, all Operator I positions must successfully pass the ...

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Power System Operator information

See Ohio salary details

$80.7K

$116K

$147.9K

How much do power system operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for power system operator in Ohio is $115,992.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,700.00 and $132,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Power System Operator job?

A Power System Operator monitors and controls electrical power generation and distribution to ensure a stable and reliable supply. They use advanced control systems to manage grid operations, balance demand and supply, and respond to outages or emergencies. Operators work in control centers, often on rotating shifts, to oversee real-time power flow and coordinate with other utility personnel. Their role is critical in preventing blackouts and maintaining system efficiency.

What is a typical work environment like for a Power System Operator?

Power System Operators usually work in control centers, which are secure facilities featuring advanced computer systems, large monitoring displays, and communication equipment. Most positions require working in shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, since the power grid must be monitored 24/7 to ensure reliable service. Operators frequently collaborate with engineers, field technicians, and other operators to respond rapidly to system disturbances or scheduled outages. This role is fast-paced and requires vigilance, but it offers a dynamic environment where teamwork and real-time problem-solving are highly valued. Many operators find the work rewarding due to its vital role in maintaining critical infrastructure.

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

Power System Operators require strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a background in electrical engineering or a related field, often supported by industry certifications or relevant work experience. Familiarity with energy management systems, SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) software, and NERC certifications is typically essential in this role. Effective communication, decision-making under pressure, and teamwork are critical soft skills for excelling as an operator. These competencies ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of power grids, minimizing downtime and maintaining service continuity.

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Power System Operator jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Power System Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Power System Operator jobs in OH? For Power System Operator jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Power System Operator job openings in Ohio as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $115,992 per year, or $55.8 per hour.
Electric System Operator

Electric System Operator

American Electric Power

Gahanna, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


American Electric Power rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 102 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

Job Posting End Date
07-31-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
The Electric System Operator (Distribution Dispatcher) is responsible for coordinating, regulating, and controlling the real-time operation of the electric distribution system to ensure reliable, safe, and efficient service to customers. This role monitors system conditions, executes switching orders, responds to outages and emergencies, and communicates with field crews, engineers, and other utility personnel.
Job Description
Electric System Operator (Dist. Dispatcher Assoc. - Dist. Dispatcher Sr.):
As a member of our Distribution Control Center team, you'll be the nerve center of the distribution grid-monitoring SCADA and grid telemetry in real time, making rapid decisions to isolate faults, restore service, and reconfigure feeders to keep power flowing. You'll coordinate crews and contractors, issue safe switching orders, manage outage priorities during storms and emergencies, and communicate clear status updates to operations leadership and stakeholders. This fast-paced role combines technical problem solving, decisive action, and teamwork-where every shift delivers visible impact on reliability, safety, and customer satisfaction-offering hands-on experience with advanced grid controls and a clear path for career growth in utility operations.
What You'll Do:
  • Promote and enforce the Company's Safety and Health programs.
  • Be knowledgeable and adhere to written company and department policy and procedures.
  • Demonstrate the highest standards of ethical behavior and support the Company's Corporate Compliance Policy.
  • Effectively operate company communication equipment.
  • Track crew locations and ongoing work on the distribution system.
  • Dispatch service personnel to respond to outage and emergency situations.
  • Authorize the energizing and restoration of distribution facilities.
  • Maintain accurate outage records.
  • Maintain accurate records of abnormal and defective equipment for distribution facilities.

What We're Looking For:
Dist. Dispatcher Assoc.:
Education requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in any field,
  • OR associate degree in electrical or electronic technology,
  • OR High School Diploma with 2 years of experience with technical customer support and service, including successful multi-tasking and handling of multiple programs/screens.

Dist. Dispatcher:
Education requirements are listed below:
  • Bachelor's degree in any field,
  • OR associate's degree in electrical or electronic technology,
  • OR High School Diploma with 2 years of experience with technical customer support and service, including successful multi-tasking and handling of multiple programs/screens in addition to experience listed below.

Work Experience requirement listed below:
  • Minimum 2 years of experience as a Distribution Dispatcher Assoc.
  • Successfully complete training and pass the examination for a Distribution Dispatcher

Dist. Dispatcher Sr.:
Education requirements are listed below:
  • Bachelor's degree in any field,
  • OR associate's degree in electrical or electronic technology,
  • OR High School Diploma with 2 years of experience with technical customer support and service, including successful multi-tasking and handling of multiple programs/screens in addition to experience listed below.

Work Experience requirement listed below:
  • Minimum 2 years of experience as a Distribution Dispatcher.
  • Successfully complete training and pass the examination for a Distribution Dispatcher Sr.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS (ALL Levels):
  • Entry-level hires in the Distribution Dispatcher role have opportunities to advance into progressive positions at regular intervals through our job progression pathway. With strong performance and successful progression, employees can expect to reach earnings of $100,000+ within five years.
  • Rotating shift work required.
  • The required Pre Employment tests are listed below: Successful completion of the System Operator/Power Dispatching Selection System (SOPD) test is required for this position. A review of Employment Testing Information, Test-Taking Tips, and the SOPD Practice Tests may be helpful. A link to these materials may be found at AEP.com Careers by selecting Employment testing.
  • Must maintain a high availability for call-out response.
  • Due to call-out responsibility, applicants must live within or be willing to relocate to within 45 minutes of the reporting location.
  • Must satisfactorily complete required training and testing to progress to the next level within the Distribution Dispatcher Associate classification within 2 years and to the Distribution Dispatcher classification within 4 years or vacate the position.
  • Promotion and/or equity adjustments within the classification will be made in salary upon successful completion of the required training and testing.
  • Must be able to work under pressure during periods of critical system conditions and deal with diverse situations simultaneously.
  • Critical decisions must be made affecting reliability and priority of service to customers.
  • Failure to issue correct instructions could affect personnel safety, welfare of the general public, equipment damage, loss of revenue and adverse publicity.

Drive Time Requirement:
  • Successful candidate must live or be willing to relocate within 45 mins of the AEPOH Gahanna building (700 Morrison Road Gahanna, Ohio 43230)

What You'll Get:
Dist. Dispatcher Assoc.: $70,000 to start
Dist. Dispatcher: $74,551 - $93,188
Dist. Dispatcher Sr.: $87,633 - $109,544
In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
At AEP, we're more than just an energy company - we're a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
#AEPOH
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
SP20-005
Compensation Range:
$63,496.00 - $109,543.00
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S - Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.
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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.

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About American Electric Power

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AEP Energy is a certified competitive retail electricity and natural gas supply provider. We proudly serve residential, small business and commercial and industrial customers. AEP Energy has over 100 years of industry experience with backing from our parent company, American Electric Power (AEP). AEP is one of the largest electric energy companies in the United States and ranked 204 of the Fortune 500.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbus, OH, US

Year founded

1906

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