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System Operator Trainee Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

... system (10 miles underground). The Henderson mine is an underground molybdenum mining operation ... Maintain and operate concentrator equipment Perform detailed inspections of operating equipment and ...

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Mill Operator Trainee

Parshall, CO · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

... system (10 miles underground). The Henderson mine is an underground molybdenum mining operation ... Perform detailed inspections of operating equipment and operational areas * Assist with maintenance ...

... system (10 miles underground). The Henderson mine is an underground molybdenum mining operation ... Perform detailed inspections of operating equipment and operational areas * Assist with maintenance ...

New

... system (10 miles underground). The Henderson mine is an underground molybdenum mining operation ... Perform detailed inspections of operating equipment and operational areas * Assist with maintenance ...

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System Operator Trainee information

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

To thrive as a System Operator Trainee, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, power grid fundamentals, and typically an associate’s degree in electrical engineering technology or a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, energy management software, and NERC certification is often required or preferred. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help trainees excel in high-pressure, team-oriented environments. These competencies are crucial for maintaining grid reliability, ensuring safety, and responding rapidly to system disturbances.

What are some common challenges faced by System Operator Trainees in their first year on the job?

As a System Operator Trainee, one of the main challenges is mastering complex monitoring systems and learning to respond quickly and accurately to real-time changes in the power grid. Trainees must also adapt to rotating shift schedules, which can impact work-life balance. Collaborating with experienced operators and staying updated on protocols is key, as the role involves both independent decision-making and close teamwork under pressure. Building confidence in handling emergency scenarios and communicating effectively with field crews are also essential skills developed during the first year.

What is the difference between System Operator Trainee vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectSystem Operator TraineePower Plant Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification
Work EnvironmentControl rooms, training facilitiesPower plant facilities, control rooms
Employer & Industry UsageUtilities, energy companies, training programsPower generation plants, energy sector
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that a System Operator Trainee is in a training phase, learning to monitor and control systems, while a Power Plant Operator is a fully qualified professional responsible for operating power plant equipment. The trainee role focuses on gaining experience, whereas the power plant operator role involves hands-on operational duties.

What are system operator trainees?

System operator trainees are entry-level professionals who are undergoing training to manage and monitor the operations of systems such as electrical power grids, water treatment plants, or other critical infrastructure. They work under the supervision of experienced operators, learning how to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of these systems. Their responsibilities typically include observing control panels, responding to alarms, recording data, and assisting with routine maintenance. The goal of the training is to prepare them for full operator roles by providing both hands-on experience and classroom instruction.
What are popular job titles related to System Operator Trainee jobs in Colorado? For System Operator Trainee jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching System Operator Trainee jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for System Operator Trainee jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for System Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most System Operator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various System Operator Trainee job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 38% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

$42/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

System Operator Trainee

Responsible for gaining a comprehensive working knowledge of all aspects of System Operations through formal training courses, on-the-job training, field training and self-study. The Trainee will progress through a phased training program to teach the Trainee all of the aspects of System Operations including scheduling, electrical fundamentals, transmission system switching, transmission system reliability, and emergency response. The training is to be completed within 24 months. Participate, under the direction of a NERC Certified System Operator, in daily routine or emergency operations of the power system.

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.

System Operator Trainee Hiring Wage: $42.00

Responsibilities
  • Complete and pass TSGT System Operator Trainee training course designed for System Operations.
  • Participate, under the direction of a NERC Certified System Operator, in daily routine or emergency operations of the power system.
  • Develop a working knowledge of the EMS/SCADA (Energy Management System/Supervisor Control and Data Acquisition) system and become competent in its operation including the performance of real-time system studies.
  • Develop a working knowledge of the electrical transmission system to include transmission lines, substations, telecommunications, and all other major related components.
  • Become competent on all communications equipment to include radio and telephone equipment and other associated devices.
  • Become competent on various computer applications for data entry, report writing, and data exchange.
  • Complete field assignments with Tri‑State crews in order to learn transmission, substation, and generation job functions. Minimum of one week with each field discipline, or as required.
  • Develop a working knowledge of all WECC major transmission paths and their impact on the interconnected system (i.e. TOTs).
  • Learn the basic fundamentals of coal fired, combined cycle and combustion turbine generation, hydroelectric, and renewable generation technologies (i.e. wind and solar) to include terminology, characteristics and limitations.
  • Develop a working knowledge of Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) and/or Independent System Operator (ISO) reliability functions.
  • Gain a working knowledge of power scheduling, power contracts, and learn basic power marketing principles.
  • Learn and comply with safe work and clearance procedures as they apply to routine and emergency situations.
  • 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.
Qualifications

Education and Training

  • High school education or equivalent. Associate degree in electronics or electrical technology or equivalent. Completion of technical training/schooling such as military A school training, desirable. Working knowledge of algebra, geometry and basic principles of physics.

Knowledge, Skills, and Ability:

  • Ability to learn electrical and mechanical theory, AC and DC circuits and the fundamentals of power flow.
  • Must become NERC System Operator Certified in the first six months of employment.
  • Must maintain NERC System Operator Certification by obtaining the required continuing education hours.
  • Must be able to distinguish full range of colors; position duties involve the use of computer monitor which displays color-coded electric system diagrams.
  • Willingness to work rotating shifts.
  • Ability to use or learn computer terminal.
  • Ability to communicate, both orally and written.
  • Working knowledge of safety rules and equipment.
  • Ability to work under stress.
  • Ability to maintain effective working relationships.

Experience:

  • Zero (0) to two and one half (2 ½) years of related experience.

Other:

  • Willingness to travel as required. (Must possess a valid driver's license.)
  • Utility experience in power plant or field maintenance is desired or military equivalent.

DESIRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS

  • NERC Certification
About Us

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.

Job Info
  • Job Identification 671
  • Job Category Dispatch
  • Job Schedule Full time
  • Locations 1100 W 116th Ave, Westminster, CO, 80234, US
  • Hiring Salary Range $87,360