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Power System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Regulates system resources to accommodate Independent Power Producers' generation to meet schedules ... The System Operator II has the responsibility and the authority to take any required action up to ...

System Operator - Transmission I-Sr

Jackson, MS

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

... power entities and other system operations personnel while carefully monitoring system conditions ... System operators continually train to hone their system knowledge and utilize simulation to ...

System Operator Senior or System Operator Staff • Job Code: 126859 or 126858 • Job Grade: 58 or ... power. LEVEL OF RESPONSIBILITY • Complex responsibilities related to primary focus of job area.

System Operator Senior or System Operator Staff • Job Code: 126859 or 126858 • Job Grade: 58 or ... power. LEVEL OF RESPONSIBILITY • Complex responsibilities related to primary focus of job area.

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Power System Operator information

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$86.5K

$124.3K

$158.5K

How much do power system operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for power system 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 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 are hiring for Power System Operator jobs? Cities with the most Power System Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Power System Operator jobs? The most popular types of Power System Operator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Power System Operator jobs? The top employers for Power System Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Power System Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Power System Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Power System Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Power System Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Power System Operator jobs? For Power System Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Power System Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,340 per year, or $59.8 per hour.
Senior Generation System Operator

Senior Generation System Operator

Alliant Energy

Madison, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Alliant Energy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Bring YOUR energy to Alliant Energy!
At Alliant Energy, our purpose is to serve customers and build stronger communities. We are passionate about powering beyond the market challenges of today, while powering what's next in energy. When our employees say "I am energy", it means they take pride in the work we do when disaster strikes, as well as all the days in between. We want you to be safe, happy and healthy. That's why we prioritize safety, offer volunteer opportunities and provide competitive pay, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, tuition reimbursement and paid time off.
Job Summary
Step into a high-impact role where you will be at the center of keeping the power grid running safely and reliably. As a Senior GENCO System Operator, you will play a critical role in real-time operations; monitoring system conditions, directing generation resources, and making fast, informed decisions that keep energy flowing across Alliant Energy's east and west balancing authorities.
This is a dynamic, fast-paced environment where no two days are the same. You'll work alongside a skilled team to optimize generation performance, respond to system events, and ensure compliance with NERC, MISO, and MRO reliability standards. Your expertise will directly support the safe and efficient delivery of energy to the communities we serve.
This role also offers the opportunity to grow your technical capabilities, including obtaining your NERC System Operator Certification within six months of hire.
Important Role Details:
  • This position operates on a rotational schedule and requires availability to work days, nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • This is an on-site role and is not a hybrid opportunity.

What you will do
  • Direct, dispatch, coordinate, and optimize the operation all Alliant Energy and Central Iowa Power Cooperative (CIPCO) generating units during normal operation, alerts, warnings, and emergencies while maintaining reliability of the Alliant Energy east and west balancing authorities.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and MRO reliability standards as well as MISO, TOP, and Alliant Energy standards and procedures.
  • Assist in training activities, drill preparation, and other NERC required operator training activities.
  • Starts and stops generators in response to requests from MISO or to relieve emergency conditions as needed by the transmission operator.
  • Utilize the generation management system (GMS) to monitor all critical aspects of the bulk electric system, including system load, frequency, tie-line and generator status, and voltage levels.
  • Ensures quality and accuracy of real-time telemetered data and responds to failures by manually updating data and coordinating failed equipment repair or replacement.
  • Monitors real-time interconnected tie line flows and performs nightly interconnection check out with neighboring utilities.
  • Takes or directs appropriate action during normal and emergency conditions to maintain the reliability of the bulk electric system, including implementation of interruptible load, direct load control, firm load shedding, or other load management resources.
  • Ensures accurate daily operations log and detailed records are maintained during shift.
  • Engages in other duties as needed that support Alliant Energy's Values and helps deliver on our Purpose to serve customers and build stronger communities.

Education Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree Emphasis in engineering, business, marketing or a related field Preferred
  • Certification NERC System Operator Certification is required or must be obtained within six months and maintained Required

Required Experience
  • 5 years of related experience including experience in various phases of power system operation

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Knowledge of the company's generation assets, generation management system, system operations, ATC and ITC Midwest transmission systems, and MISO market and operating procedures.
  • Knowledge of and ability to comply with NERC standards and requirements. Able to participate in NERC compliance audits.
  • Ability to train new System Operators.
  • Demonstrated ability to use computers and analytical methods to analyze various operational problems.
  • Demonstrated effective interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work twelve (12) hour shifts on a varying or rotating schedule which may include night, holiday and weekend shifts.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative and inclusive work environment.

Key Skills
  • Data Analysis • Demand Planning • Distribution Automation • Emergency Response • Power Monitoring • Health & Safety Management • Load Estimation • Outage Management • Power Distribution Systems Management • Switching • Power System Dispatch Strategy • Utility Mapping

Our people are passionate about what they do, the product they sell, and the customers they serve. If you're looking for an opportunity to be a part of a work family that values collaboration, innovation and dedication, we're the right company for you.
Alliant Energy offers a comprehensive total rewards package including competitive compensation and benefit programs. Information on these benefit programs is available on our Careers site.
Pay Range:
$93,500 - $128,500
This position is eligible to participate in the annual incentive program. The final salary offered will generally fall within this range and is dependent on various factors including but not limited to the responsibilities of the position, experience, skill set, internal pay equity and other relevant qualifications of the applicant.
It's not just what we do; it's how we do it.
Live Safety. Everyone. Always | Make Things Better | Care For Others | Do The Right Thing | Act For Tomorrow | Think Beyond. Be Bold
Alliant Energy and its subsidiaries are committed to creating a culture of belonging and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis prohibited by law.
All candidates selected for employment with Alliant Energy will be required to successfully complete a background check, and a drug screen where applicable.
Disclaimer:
The above information on this description has been crafted to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not crafted to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
Applicants in need of a reasonable accommodation for any part of the hiring process, please email talent@alliantenergy.com.

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