ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OGE Energy

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 ...

NewCold

System Operator

Hagerstown, MD · On-site

System Operator Build thefuture of food At NewCold, we're shaping the futureof the food supply chain. Our warehouses and transportnetwork connect the world's major food manufacturers with retailers ...

Georgia Systems Operations

System Operator

Tucker, GA · On-site

The System Operator II has the responsibility and the authority to take any required action up to and including shedding firm native load to preserve system or Interconnection reliability. Incumbent ...

NewCold

System Operator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

System Operator Build thefuture of food Join the team transforming food logistics. Be part of a dynamic andfast-growing global company. Find your future with NewCold. Why join NewCold? Competi tive ...

Georgia Systems Operations

System Operator

Tucker, GA · On-site

The System Operator II has the responsibility and the authority to take any required action up to and including shedding firm native load to preserve system or Interconnection reliability. Incumbent ...

NewCold

System Operator

Hagerstown, MD

System Operator Build the future of food Join the team transforming food logistics. Be part of a dynamic and fast-growing global company. Find your future with NewCold. Why join NewCold? Competitive ...

NewCold

System Operator

Hagerstown, MD · On-site

System Operator Build thefuture of food At NewCold, we're shaping the futureof the food supply chain. Our warehouses and transportnetwork connect the world's major food manufacturers with retailers ...

New

NewCold

System Operator

Mcdonough, GA

JOB SUMMARY The System Operator is responsible for monitoring, operating, and supporting the facility's automated Material Flow Control System (MFCS) and related Material Handling Equipment (MHE) to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSystem Operator Jobs

System Operator information

See salary details

$10

$32

$83

How much do system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 some typical challenges faced by a System Operator, and how can they best prepare for them?

System Operators often face challenges related to managing real-time system reliability, responding to unexpected outages, and coordinating with multiple teams during high-pressure situations. Staying updated with the latest operational procedures and practicing clear communication are key to handling these challenges. System Operators can prepare by participating in regular simulation drills, thoroughly understanding grid protocols, and building strong relationships with field technicians and engineers. Being proactive and detail-oriented helps ensure quick, accurate responses when issues arise.

What is the difference between System Operator vs Network Operator?

AspectSystem OperatorNetwork Operator
CertificationsTypically requires technical certifications in systems or control technologyOften requires network or telecommunications certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks in control rooms, data centers, or industrial facilitiesWorks in telecommunications or network operation centers
Industry UsageCommon in utilities, manufacturing, and industrial sectorsCommon in telecommunications, internet service providers, and data networks
Job FocusMonitors and controls system operations to ensure stabilityMaintains and manages network connectivity and performance

While both roles involve monitoring and maintaining operational systems, a System Operator primarily focuses on controlling industrial or utility systems, whereas a Network Operator manages communication networks. The choice depends on the industry and specific technical skills required.

What jobs make $500,000 a year?

High-level executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions often earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in large corporations. Certain specialized professions like investment bankers, surgeons, and successful entrepreneurs can also reach this income level, often requiring extensive experience, advanced skills, and significant responsibility.

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

To thrive as a System Operator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in electrical engineering or a related field, often supported by relevant certifications. Familiarity with SCADA systems, EMS software, and compliance standards like NERC is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help you respond effectively to system alerts and coordinate with other teams. These competencies are crucial for maintaining reliable operations, ensuring system stability, and preventing service disruptions.

What do system operators do?

System operators monitor, control, and maintain the operation of critical infrastructure systems such as power grids, telecommunications networks, or transportation systems. They use specialized software and tools to ensure systems run efficiently, respond to emergencies, and perform routine inspections. Strong technical skills, attention to detail, and often certification or training are required for this role.

What operator job pays the most?

Among operator roles, nuclear power plant operators tend to have the highest salaries due to the specialized skills and safety requirements involved. They typically require extensive training, licensing, and certification, and often work in high-stakes environments with shift schedules. Other high-paying operator jobs include aerospace and oil and gas extraction operators, depending on industry and experience.

What is the work of system operator?

A system operator monitors and controls the operation of electrical, telecommunications, or computer systems to ensure stability and efficiency. They troubleshoot issues, manage system loads, and may use specialized software and tools to maintain continuous operation, often working in shifts to provide 24/7 coverage.

What Is a System Operator?

A system operator works in the electricity industry and is highly trained to run a power grid to ensure the reliability and functionality of varying systems. As a system operator, you control and oversee the flow of electricity to a power plant or utility company that then supplies power to commercial and residential properties. Job duties include monitoring and controlling circuit breakers or converters, communicating with field crews and other personnel, fixing malfunctions, and reporting issues to supervisors. The preferred qualifications start with a bachelor’s degree in engineering; however, because most system operators gain experience through on-the-job training to start, a high school diploma may suffice. System operators continuously train and update their skills throughout their career to keep up with regulations and policies.

What are system operators?

System operators, often called sysops, are professionals responsible for monitoring, managing, and maintaining the operations of computer systems, networks, or power grids. They ensure that systems run smoothly, troubleshoot issues, and implement updates or changes as needed. In IT, sysops may handle servers, user accounts, and network security, while in utilities, system operators manage the flow of electricity or other resources to maintain service reliability. Their work is crucial for minimizing downtime and ensuring efficient system performance.
More about System Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for System Operator jobs? Cities with the most System Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of System Operator jobs? The most popular types of System Operator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for System Operator jobs? The top employers for System Operator jobs are:
What states have the most System Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for System Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching System Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for System Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to System Operator jobs? For System Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,988 per year, or $32.7 per hour.
System Operator

System Operator

OGE Energy

Oklahoma City, OK • On-site

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

JOB INFORMATION

* Job Title: 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 candidates' qualifications.

Responsible for the safe, reliable, stable, and economic round-the-clock operation of OG&E's electric transmission system as well as maintaining compliance with the various regulatory obligations imposed upon this role by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Southwest Power Pool (SPP). Has the responsibility and authority to implement real-time actions to ensure the stability of power.

LEVEL OF RESPONSIBILITY

* Complex responsibilities related to primary focus of job area. Uses best practices and in-depth business knowledge to solve complex problems and improve products or services. May adapt procedures, processes and techniques to meet the more complex requirements of position.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

* Proactively takes steps to enhance the operation of the center (e.g., identify and resolve potential deficiencies in the control center and back up control center).

* Leads Backup Center activation drills.

* Actively provides mentoring to Transmission Operators.

* Ensures the reliability of the Bulk Electric System within OG&E's service territory by monitoring and controlling system parameters such as line flows and transmission-level voltage within prescribed limits; Acts promptly to return the system to a stable state when voltage and/or System Operating Limit (SOL) excursions occur.

* Maintains real-time compliance with reliability standards set by regulatory authorities.

* All other duties as assigned.

* Monitors and controls transmission system parameters including system alarms, load, voltage, VAR flow, line flows, transformer flows, tap positions and maintains acceptable voltage profiles in accordance with established NERC reliability standards and OG&E policies and procedures.

* Leads or assists in transmission system troubleshooting.

* Determines trouble location and analyzes cause, routes trouble report to appropriate unit for corrective action and advises all those affected of corrective actions.

* Writes, reviews, evaluates, coordinates and directs all switching operations to safely and reliably take transmission facilities out of service. Safely and reliably returns facilities back to service.

* Directs immediate actions by transmission operators, generator operators, load-serving entities and distribution operators to preserve the integrity and reliability of the Bulk Electric System.

* Directs transmission switching, load shedding and generator loading to meet NERC Operating policy requirements under normal and emergency conditions.

* Acts as the Operating Authority for the OG&E transmission system and takes corrective action(s) as directed by the SPP Reliability Coordinator.

* Performs system contingency analysis for transmission system at regular intervals during shift to identify situations that result in line or transformer overloads or abnormal voltages.

* Initiates OG&E Blackstart and System Restoration procedures if called upon.

* Maintains accurate System Operator Log entries.

* Provides backup coverage for next-level supervision under normal and emergency conditions.

* Participates in continuous process improvement projects.

* May serve as interviewee for compliance audits.

REQUIREMENTS

Senior Qualifications:

* High School Diploma/GED and 5 years Transmission Operator/System Operator work experience and completion of OG&E System Operator training within 9 months of start in position; Or

* High School Diploma/GED and 5 years Regional Transmission Organization work experience within a directly related role (e.g., Reliability Coordinator, Real Time Balancing Reliability Unit Commitment Operator) and completion of OG&E System Operator training within 9 months of start in position; Or

* High School Diploma/GED and 7 years combined experience in a Transmission Control Center and Distribution Control Center or Regional Transmission Organization work experience within a directly related role (e.g., Distribution Control Center Operator, Reliability Coordinator or Real Time Balancing Reliability Unit Commitment Operator) and completion of OG&E System Operator training within 9 months of start in position; Or

* High School Diploma/GED and 2 years OG&E System Operator Staff work experience.

Staff Qualifications:

* Bachelor's Degree in related technical field (e.g., Electronics, Electrical, Power Technology, Engineering Technology), and 2 years related utility technical work experience in Substation Operations (Relay, Maintenance, etc.), Distribution and/or Transmission Control Center Operations (e.g., Control Center Operator, Control Center Dispatcher), or Power Plant Operations (e.g., Power Plant Operator III or higher); Or

* Associate's Degree in Applied Science (e.g., Electronics, Electrical, Power Technology, Engineering Tech), combined with related utility experience to include 1 year technical Journey level experience in Substation Operations (Relay, Maintenance etc.); Or

* Associate's Degree in Applied Science (e.g., Electronics, Electrical, Power Technology, Engineering Tech) and 5 years' experience in Distribution and/or Transmission Control Center Operations (e.g., Control Center Operator, Control Center Dispatcher); Or

* High School Diploma/GED combined with three 3 years journey level exp in Substation Operations (Relay, Maintenance, etc.), or 7 years' experience in Distribution and/or Transmission Control Center Operations (e.g., Control Center Operator, Control Ctr Dispatcher); OR

* High School Diploma/GED combined with 5 years Power Plant Senior Operator experience with at least 1year of Control Room Power Plant Operator experience; Or

* High School Diploma/GED and minimum 6 months experience as an OGE System Operator Associate II combined with successful completion of an Associate System Operator II Qualification Review Board examination.

WORKING CONDITIONS

* May be required to work non-standard work schedules to include on-call and call-outs.

* Requires working in a rotating shift environment.

* May require occasional travel.

SPECIAL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

* Member will not be required to drive in order to perform their job duties.

* The operation, maintenance or oversight of critical services and infrastructure including but not limited to, electric utilities, power generation or distribution;

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAS)

* Advanced knowledge of North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and Southwest Power Pool (SPP) criteria and requirements.

* Demonstrated leadership while continually improving technical abilities to enhance Operator team results.

* Demonstrated ability to apply depth of knowledge and impact directional decisions about how to effectively ensure system reliability.

* Advanced technical knowledge of voltage control, protective relaying and control center emergency operation conditions.

* Advanced knowledge of the generation/interconnected transmission system operation, and ability to transfer knowledge into execution of real time load flow studies and contingency analysis.

* Excellent personal computer skills with advanced knowledge of general and/or specialized applications.

* Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

* Demonstrated ability to handle stress and work efficiently during emergency and heavy workload conditions, and handle several tasks simultaneously.

* Demonstrated problem solving skills and strong ability to troubleshoot and prioritize responsibilities.

* Strong knowledge of relevant Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

* Strong knowledge of safety and electrical hazards and ability to communicate safety and electrical hazards in order to ensure safe operation of the OG&E transmission system.

* Ability to work effectively in a team environment and perform duties without direct supervision.

* Ability to maintain all required certifications.

* Ability to work rotating shifts.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

* Required Certifications/Licensures:(NERC System Operator Certification (TO or higher level))

* Required Certifications/Licensures:(Valid Driver's License)

HEALTH AND SAFETY (MEDICAL/DOT REQUIREMENTS)

* Pre-Employment Drug Screen

* This position is classified as a Safety-Sensitive Job under state law. Individuals in this position are subject to the terms and conditions set forth in OGE Energy Corp.'s Drug Testing Plan.

SALARY RANGE

$125,000 - $140,000

Apply