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Senior System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OG&E

System Operator

Oklahoma City, OK

System Operator Senior or System Operator Staff Job Code: 126859 or 126858 Job Grade: 58 or 57 JOB SUMMARY We are hiring for either a System Operator Senior or System Operator Staff based on ...

OG&E

System Operator

Oklahoma City, OK

System Operator Senior or System Operator Staff • Job Code: 126859 or 126858 • Job Grade: 58 or 57 JOB SUMMARY We are hiring for either a System Operator Senior or System Operator Staff based on ...

OG&E

System Operator

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

System Operator Senior or System Operator Staff • Job Code: 126859 or 126858 • Job Grade: 58 or 57 JOB SUMMARY We are hiring for either a System Operator Senior or System Operator Staff based on ...

Axxeum

Senior Mission System Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Senior Mission Systems Operator Location: Huntsville, AL and overseas customer location Position Status: Full Time Travel Requirement: International travel required/ extended deployments Brief The ...

New

Georgia Systems Operations

System Operator

Tucker, GA

The System Operator II has the responsibility and the authority to take any required action up to ... Delivers oral and written presentations and reports that alert senior management to ongoing trends ...

Axxeum

Senior Mission System Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Senior Mission Systems Operator Location: Huntsville, AL and overseas customer location Position Status: Full Time Travel Requirement: International travel required/ extended deployments Brief The ...

New

Jobs for Humanity

AR · On-site

Entergy Services, Inc ESI (OLD) This position will be filled as a System Operator Trainee, System Operator I, II, or Sr. based on the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate. This ...

Ercot

NERC RC System Operator

Austin, TX · On-site

Senior Level: Requires minimum 5 years of job-related work experience in excess of degree ... ERCOT System Operator (Required for Senior level) PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS * Must be able to work ...

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Senior System Operator information

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$10

$32

$83

How much do senior system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior system operator in the United States is $32.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $38.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Senior System Operator, you need deep knowledge of system operations, troubleshooting, and network management, often backed by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with SCADA systems, operating procedures, and certifications such as NERC or equivalent are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, decision-making under pressure, and clear communication skills help you excel in this role. These skills ensure reliable system performance, efficient problem resolution, and maintain safety and compliance in critical infrastructure environments.

What is the difference between Senior System Operator vs System Operator?

AspectSenior System OperatorSystem Operator
CredentialsTypically requires more experience and possibly advanced certificationsEntry to mid-level certifications and experience
Work EnvironmentOversees complex systems, mentors junior staffMonitors and controls systems under supervision
ResponsibilitiesAdvanced troubleshooting, system optimization, team leadershipBasic system monitoring, incident response

The Senior System Operator generally has more experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities compared to a System Operator. They handle complex tasks, mentor staff, and optimize system performance, whereas System Operators focus on routine monitoring and incident management.

What does a Senior System Operator do?

A Senior System Operator is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining the reliable operation of complex computer or power systems. They oversee system performance, troubleshoot issues, and coordinate with technical teams to ensure optimal functionality and uptime. Senior System Operators also implement system upgrades, enforce security protocols, and may train junior staff. Their expertise is vital in minimizing downtime and ensuring the smooth operation of essential systems.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior System Operators and how can they be addressed?

Senior System Operators often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected system outages, coordinating real-time responses to equipment failures, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills, the ability to make quick decisions under pressure, and effective communication with cross-functional teams. Staying updated with the latest industry protocols, participating in regular training, and fostering close collaboration with engineering and IT departments can help address these challenges and ensure reliable system operations.
What cities are hiring for Senior System Operator jobs? Cities with the most Senior System Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of System Operator jobs? The most popular types of System Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Senior System Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior System Operator jobs include:
Senior System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior System Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,988 per year, or $32.7 per hour.
System Operator I, II or Senior

System Operator I, II or Senior

Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, Inc.

Westminster, CO

$109K - $139K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Responsible for performing routine and emergency switching on the TriState interconnected transmission system and monitoring transmission system parameters including voltages, line and transformer loads and taking corrective actions as required.  This position is a shift position to cover 24 hours 7 days per week.  This position is tasked with the authority and responsibility to operate the Tri-State transmission system in such a manner as to comply with all appropriate North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and Regional Reliability Organization (RRO) reliability standards.

Note: There are two positions available and the positions will be filled at one of three job grade levels: System Operator I, job grade 8; System Operator II, job grade 9; or Senior System Operator, job grade 10. This decision will be based on the qualifications and experience of the candidate selected, and Tri-State business needs at the time of hire.


Tri-State recognizes the value of a highly-engaged and committed workforce and provides an excellent benefits program that includes:
Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Tuition Reimbursement, Flexible Work Schedules, Life Insurance, 401K, Long Term Disability (LTD), Short Term Disability (STD), Employee Assistant Program (EAP) and Paid Leave Benefits. 
 

Senior System Operator
Hiring Salary Range: $109,000-139,000


System Operator II 
Hiring Salary Range: $98,000-$124,000


System Operator I
Hiring Salary Range: $88,000-$111,000 
Actual compensation offer to candidate may vary outside of the posted hiring salary range based upon work experience, education, and/or skill level.

Tri-State is a wholesale power supply cooperative, operating on a not-for-profit basis, with electric distribution cooperatives and public power district members in four states: Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico and Wyoming. Together with its members, Tri-State delivers reliable, affordable and responsible power and energy services to nearly a million electricity consumers across roughly 200,000 square miles of the West.

Founded in 1952 by its member systems to provide a reliable, cost-based supply of electricity, Tri-State is now headquartered in Westminster, Colo., employing approximately 1,000 people across five states.

Tri-State's electricity is generated from coal, natural gas, hydropower, wind, and solar. This power reaches members via a transmission system that includes substation facilities, telecommunications sites and almost 6,000 miles of high voltage transmission lines.

As a member-owned and -governed cooperative, every member has a voice and an equal vote in the future of Tri-State.

Education and Training

  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Completion of Tri-State System Operator Trainee Program or other qualified System Operator Trainee program.
  • Working knowledge of algebra, geometry, and basic principles of physics including electrical and mechanical theory, AC and DC currents, and the fundamentals of power flow.

  • NERC Certification and maintain certification by obtaining required continuing education hours.

Knowledge, Skills, and Ability:

  • Working knowledge of algebra, geometry and basic principles of physics.
  • Working knowledge of electrical and mechanical theory, AC and DC circuits and the fundamental of power flow.
  • Extensive knowledge of electrical utility systems, equipment and all phases of transmission operations.
  • Extensive knowledge of corporate security and fire alarm system and related procedures.
  • Extensive knowledge of safety rules and equipment.
  • Ability to direct the work of other System Operators and assist in training new employees and/or trainees.
  • Ability to distinguish full range of colors to be successful with completing duties involving the use of computer displays to monitor color-coded electric system diagrams.
  • Ability to use and learn various computer applications.
  • Excellent communication skills, both orally and written.
  • Ability to work under stress.
  • Ability to maintain good working relationships both internal and external.
  • Ability to exercise good judgment and discretion in routine and emergency situations.

Experience:

  • Three (3) or more years System Operator II experience or an equivalent level of experience on an interconnected electrical system.
  • One (1) year on the Tri-State system at System Operator II level.

Other:

  • Willingness to work rotating shifts with extra and/or irregular hours including holidays.
  • Willingness to travel as required. (Must possess a valid driver's license.)

DESIRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in Electricity, Mathematics, or other closely related discipline preferred.

Note: The above requirements describe the experience and education qualifications for the Senior System Operator. Those with less experience will be hired at the I or II job grade level.

  • Senior System Operator duties include:

    • Prepare/approve transmission switching programs in advance of requested date of execution.

    • Using advanced Energy Management System (EMS) simulation tools model all switching programs to identify and mitigate any reliability issues.

    • Direct and coordinate routine and emergency switching including issuing clearances and other protective orders to field personnel and coordinate with interconnected utilities.

    • Coordinate routine and emergency activities with Member systems and other interconnected utilities.

    • Monitor transmission system events and conditions utilizing EMS, to include but not limited to line trips, system voltages, line loading, and equipment status, and take actions to maintain transmission system reliability as dictated by company specific reliability related tasks in accordance with NERC, RRO, and company guidelines.

    • Monitor network applications, including State Estimator and Real-Time Security Analysis, for potential Transmission System reliability issues and take action to mitigate any reliability issues.

    • Develop, Approve, and Implement mitigations for Real-Time Transmission System emergencies

    • Validate Transmission Service Requests, e-Tags, performing congestion management, and underground locates.

    • Assist with training activities of new employees, System Operator I & II, and Transmission System Operator Trainees as needed.

    • During emergency system conditions coordinated and execute decisions to restore load and generation balance and provide emergency assistance as requested or required to ensure system reliability, as required by the NERC Standards, and provided for under the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Standards of Conduct.

    • Perform Senior System Operator duties at the Backup Control Center (BCC) as needed during emergencies and during periodic BCC drills and exercises.

    • Participate in Regional System Blackstart system restoration drills.

  • General System Operations duties:

    • Operate voice and radio communications systems to communicate with interconnected utilities and field personnel.

    • Coordinate at various internal and external corporate levels to exchange information and coordinate reliable operations.

    • Coordinate with System Operating Engineers and assist with system studies and related matters.

    • Ensure the Open Access Same-Time Information System (OASIS) postings are updated to reflect real time changes to Available Transmission Capacity (ATC).

    • Maintain operational records and logs.

      • Post information on reliability messaging tools as required and monitor these messages for incoming reliability information. 

      • Participate in all required training to maintain a valid NERC Certification.

  • Demonstrate and promote ethics and behaviors consistent with Tri-State's culture, Board policies, and business practices. Understand and fulfill the role and responsibility for all compliance programs within the company.

  • Because Tri-State is an electric utility with continuous service obligations to its customers, regular, reliable, and predictable performance of the essential functions and responsibilities is an essential function of the job.

  • Because Tri-State has an obligation to provide continuous, reliable electric service to its customers, the ability to work overtime at any time of the day or week is considered an essential function of the job.

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Perform other related duties as assigned

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