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Senior System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Follow established operating practices and procedures as they relate to customer restoration, switching and operating for scheduled and emergent work. Manage real-time system alarm status and loading ...

Senior System Administrator

Hanover, MD

$84.70K - $114.80K/yr

Maverc Technologies is seeking a Senior System Administrator to support one of our corporate ... Configure and manage Unix and Windows operating systems * Installs/loads/troubleshoot operating ...

The Senior System Analyst (PBM Domain) will take a lead role in establishing and managing ... recruitment engine operating across North America and Asia--ensuring speed, quality, and ...

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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 1, 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 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 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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Senior System Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,988 per year, or $32.7 per hour.
Sr Dist System Operator

Sr Dist System Operator

ComEd

Joliet, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


ComEd rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Who We Are
We're powering a cleaner, brighter future.
Exelon is leading the energy transformation, and we're calling all problem solvers, innovators, community builders and change makers. Work with us to deliver solutions that make our diverse cities and communities stronger, healthier and more resilient.
We're powered by purpose-driven people like you who believe in being inclusive and creative, and value safety, innovation, integrity and community service. We are a Fortune 200 company, 20,000 colleagues strong serving more than 10.7 million customers at six energy companies -- Atlantic City Electric (ACE), Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE), Commonwealth Edison (ComEd), Delmarva Power & Light (DPL), PECO Energy Company (PECO), and Potomac Electric Power Company (Pepco).
We're committed to creating an environment where every person can thrive. Our employee experience is grounded in four tenets that guide how we support our people: purposeful careers, growth opportunities, community impact, and support to thrive.
In our relentless pursuit of excellence, we elevate diverse voices, fresh perspectives and bold thinking. And since we know transforming the future of energy is hard work, we provide competitive compensation, incentives, excellent benefits and the opportunity to build a rewarding career.
Are you in?
Primary Purpose
Optimize the practices, policies, procedures and programs to operate the electric distribution system in a safe, reliable and efficient manner with the welfare of employees, customers, the public and shareholders in mind. Follow established operating practices and procedures as they relate to customer restoration, switching and operating for scheduled and emergent work. Manage real-time system alarm status and loading conditions. Perform system restoration during storms and emergency events. Perform the work of receiving, recording, routing, dispatching customer calls, information, orders, and emergency calls. Serve as the tagging authority by leading and directing the application of the safety tagging procedures. Execute line clearance orders by confirming and directing the placement of tags in accordance with LOTO. Lead, direct and supervise associates in restoring customers and safely clearing and restoring equipment. Recognize and reinforce strong performers. Take appropriate administrative actions to address weak performers. Control and operate the distribution system. Span of control includes all devices connected to the distribution system including distribution automation equipment and network underground systems. Respond to electrical service interruptions involving all distribution system. Perform electrical switching on a planned, emergent and emergency basis on distribution system. Maintain system voltages as well as line and equipment loadings within acceptable limits. Maintain and apply a working knowledge of the Exelon Management Model for business controls and meet management's expectation for conducting effective business. Demonstrate proficiency at multiple operating desks. Provides training to less experienced employees.
Requires minimal guidance and demonstrates leadership throughout the OCC. Position requires the ability to work extended hours, rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays and overtime on regularly scheduled days off to support operations, including coverage during storms or other energy delivery emergencies.
Primary Duties
  • Follow established policies, procedures and guidelines on distribution system operations. Maintain the system integrity, reliability and security of distribution system in a safe, reliable and efficient manner.
  • Gather and analyze system data to determine the feasibility of switching requests. Verify the safe and efficient operation of the electrical system.
  • Compile switching routines within system loading and system configuration parameters and provide guidelines to ensure proper clearance for switching requests. Develop and provide emergency switching plans based on last contingencies.
  • Independently directs and supervises all electrical switching, placement of safety tags and testing activities on the system in a safe, reliable and efficient manner.
  • Notify and direct appropriate personnel including but not limited to Operating, Construction, Customer and Contractor Personnel, as may be needed to take the necessary actions associated with outages, equipment failure, emergencies and various events on the distribution system.
  • Provides training for less experienced employees
  • Maintain system voltages, line and equipment loadings within acceptable limits
  • Keep supervisors informed of abnormal system conditions, major customer outages and equipment related problems
  • Maintain current system status information on SCADA displays, operating maps and switching routines. Interface with mapping and monitor the accuracy of new maps issued for project diagram and other related work.
  • Maintain operating log, interruption reports and associated records to accurately record system status and sequence of events.

Job Scope
  • Functional control over various operating, construction, testing, customer and contractor groups in the performance of electrical switching, repair, testing and related work activities involving lines, transformers, and other equipment under the jurisdiction of the Distribution System Operator. The different groups include Substation and overhead operating, overhead and underground maintenance, substation maintenance, Distribution Testing and Substation Testing.
  • The consequences of operating errors or improper system operation could cost the company millions of dollars in direct, indirect and intangible costs such as the loss of customer good will, damaged company equipment, damaged customer equipment and damage to the company's public image.
  • Independent judgment is essential in making the real time decisions necessary to maintain the integrity, reliability and security of the Exelon Utilities distribution system.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Meet all requirements of a Distribution System Operator 2 and have a minimum of 12-month Distribution System Operator 2 or equivalent experience.
  • Thorough understanding of the EU distribution system, the ability to recognize system configuration and loading issues, ability to formulate contingency plans and thorough knowledge and understanding of proper operating procedures obtained through successful completion of formal OCC training
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Demonstrated analytical skills and judgment
  • Demonstrated ability to respond to emergencies and manage stressful situations
  • Ability to work shift work

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in engineering, technology, math, or business, with a heavy technology curriculum.

Benefits
  • Annual salary will vary based on a candidate's skills, qualifications, experience, and other factors: $91,200.00/Yr. - $125,400.00/Yr.
  • Annual Bonus for eligible positions: 15%
  • 401(k) match and annual company contribution
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Generous paid time off options, including vacation, sick time, floating and fixed holidays, maternity leave and bonding/primary caregiver leave or parental leave
  • Employee Assistance Program and resources for mental and emotional support
  • Wellbeing programs such as tuition reimbursement, adoption and surrogacy assistance and fitness reimbursement
  • Referral bonus program
  • And much more

Note: Exelon-sponsored compensation and benefit programs may vary or not apply based on length of service, job grade, job classification or represented status. Eligibility will be determined by the written plan or program documents.

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About ComEd

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ComEd began as the Western Edison Light Company, one of several companies owned by inventor and researcher Thomas Edison. In July 1892, another Edison employee moved to Chicago to run Edison's local company, Chicago Edison. Sam Insull had a sharp business mind and eagerly increased his knowledge of electricity. Through improved marketing and increased demand for electric lighting, Commonwealth Edison was born in September 1907. ComEd is a unit of Chicago-based Exelon Corporation, a Fortune 100 energy company with approximately 10 million electricity and natural gas customers. ComEd powers the lives of more than 4 million customers across northern Illinois, or 70 percent of the state’s population. ComEd's service territory borders Iroquois County to the south (roughly Interstate 80), the Wisconsin border to the north, the Iowa border to the west and the Indiana border to the east.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1907

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