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System Operator Trainee Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Ashland

Operator Trainee

Lima, OH

$31/hr

Ability to understand how systems work * Ability to respond to emergency situations within the ... experience in an operating environment * 5 years' experience in a petrochemical operating ...

Ashland

Operator Trainee

Lima, OH · On-site

$31/hr

Ability to understand how systems work * Ability to respond to emergency situations within the ... experience in an operating environment * 5 years' experience in a petrochemical operating ...

Sotera Health

Operator

Lewis Center, OH · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Assists the Shift Supervisor in supervising processing operations including Operator Trainees, the ... Monitors and logs readings at control console during operation to ensure accelerator system ...

Sotera Health

Operator

Lewis Center, OH

$16.75 - $22/hr

Assists the Shift Supervisor in supervising processing operations including Operator Trainees, the ... Monitors and logs readings at control console during operation to ensure accelerator system ...

Sotera Health

Operator

Lewis Center, OH · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Assists the Shift Supervisor in supervising processing operations including Operator Trainees, the ... Monitors and logs readings at control console during operation to ensure accelerator system ...

Sotera Health

Operator

Lewis Center, OH · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Assists the Shift Supervisor in supervising processing operations including Operator Trainees, the ... Monitors and logs readings at control console during operation to ensure accelerator system ...

Sotera Health

Operator

Lewis Center, OH · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Assists the Shift Supervisor in supervising processing operations including Operator Trainees, the ... Monitors and logs readings at control console during operation to ensure accelerator system ...

Crane Company

Wire EDM or CNC Grinder

Elyria, OH

$37.25/hr

... Operator Trainee) - 2nd Shift at our Elyria, OH location. Hours are Monday-Friday 3:00pm -11:30pm ... About Crane: Crane Aerospace & Electronics supplies critical systems and components to the ...

Go Metro

Fleet Maintenance Trainee

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

Develop proficiency in the diagnosis of mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic system ... Operating motor coach for diagnostic purposes (O) * Standing or walking in awkward or cramped ...

Metro

Fleet Maintenance Trainee

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

Develop proficiency in the diagnosis of mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic system ... Operating motor coach for diagnostic purposes (O) * Standing or walking in awkward or cramped ...

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All JobsSystem Operator JobsSystem Operator Trainee JobsSystem Operator Trainee Jobs in Ohio

System Operator Trainee information

What is a system operator trainee?

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 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 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 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 does a system operator do?

A system operator monitors and controls industrial, electrical, or computer systems to ensure they run efficiently and safely. They troubleshoot issues, perform routine maintenance, and may use specialized software or equipment to manage system operations, often working in shifts or 24/7 environments.

What are popular job titles related to System Operator Trainee jobs in Ohio?

For System Operator Trainee jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching System Operator Trainee jobs in Ohio look for?

The top searched job categories for System Operator Trainee jobs in Ohio are:

What cities in Ohio are hiring for System Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most System Operator Trainee job openings:

System Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Operator Trainee job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Distribution System Operator I/Trainee

FirstEnergy

Akron, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago

FirstEnergy rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 53 rated energy and utility

Job description

FirstEnergy at a Glance

We are a forward-thinking electric utility powered by a diverse team of employees committed to making customers' lives brighter, the environment better and our communities stronger.

FirstEnergy (NYSE: FE) is dedicated to integrity, safety, reliability and operational excellence. Headquartered in Akron, Ohio, FirstEnergy includes one of the nation's largest investor-owned electric systems, more than 24,000 miles of transmission lines that connect the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions, and a regulated generating fleet with a total capacity of more than 3,500 megawatts.

About the Opportunity

This is an open position with Ohio Edison, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp. 

This is a full-time, on-site position located in Akron, Ohio.

This is a pool posting with multiple positions. 

This position requires rotating 24/7 coverage; rotating shifts include days, evenings, overnights and weekends, with applicable shift differential compensation. 

Responsibilities include:

  • Monitoring the day-to-day operations of the regional distribution system
  • Demonstrating a solid commitment to all aspects of safety, including adherence to the Accident Prevention Handbook (APH) and Manual of Operations
  • Recommending operational improvements and communicating system events to appropriate personnel
  • Demonstrating sound internal and/or external customer service
  • Operating the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) Energy Management System (EMS), Automated Mapping/Facilities Management (GIS) computer system, PowerOn Outage Management System (OMS), Energy Delivery Outage Application (EDOA), DCC Notification System, as well as radio and telephone systems
  • Analyzing and acting promptly in cases of system disturbance so that the system can be restored to a normal configuration
  • Providing technical analysis, monitoring systems, scheduling and/or authorizing FirstEnergy distribution equipment outages and load transfers
  • Developing detailed scenarios to identify operating problems caused by contingency outages
  • Assigning and directing switching activities and work assignments to field personnel
  • Monitoring system and weather conditions
  • Coordinating staffing requirements by calling additional resources to handle emergencies
  • Completing training and development to progress to the Regional Distribution System Operator level
  • Possessing basic understanding of Bargaining Unit Agreements with field labor

Qualifications:

  • Ability to pass the Edison Electric Institute (EEi) System Operator/Power Dispatching Test (SO/PD II) is required. 
  • Associate's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering/Electrical Engineering Technology, or related certification from an accredited institution, or minimum of 2 - 4 years' related work experience is preferred. Related work experience includes work experiences with demonstrated understanding to operate the distribution system.
  • Capable of effective performance in problem solving, multi-tasking and teamwork
  • Demonstrate effective performance in prioritizing work for efficient and safe operations
  • Knowledge of, or ability to learn Transmission and Distribution operation, maintenance and construction practices, procedures, work methods, materials, equipment and tools to operate the distribution system
  • Strong reading and comprehension skills to effectively interpret switching requests, engineering drawings, schematics, equipment instruction manuals, standards and procedures used to develop distribution switching orders
  • Possess skills in the development, collection, organization and analysis of information from a variety of sources to develop switching orders and recommendations
  • Strong oral and written communication skills to effectively communicate with customers, supervisors, peers, employees, and contractors involved with the construction, operation and maintenance of the Transmission and Distribution facilities
  • Demonstrate a questioning attitude to learn, produce results and develop relationships
  • Sufficient maturity to exercise independent judgment on moderately complex projects and assignments
  • Excellent interpersonal and analytical skills to make quick assessments and deliver well-thought decisions, when situations require
  • Knowledge of, or ability to learn, specific mainframe and computer applications
  • Able to remain professional in high stress, high volume work environment
  • Live within 45 minutes commute time
  • Willing to work rotating shifts and be available for overtime work when needed

EEI Testing

We administer selection tests for a variety of positions. The required tests have been developed by the Edison Electric Institute (EEI), a trade association of investor-owned electric utility companies. We strongly encourage potential employees to review all information, including the sample test brochures, and to use the available practice tests before taking the actual tests. Click this link to access the practice tests. You will be prompted for a name and password. Use firstenergy for both.

https://secure.eei.org/eeitests/onlineproducts/Login.aspx

Practice tests provide sample questions and detailed discussions of the correct answers. It's important to take the practice test as you would the actual one, with similar intensity and concentration. You must have Adobe Acrobat Reader on your computer.

Note: EEI website does not allow access to actual tests. Testing is held at various locations throughout our service territory based on where the job is located.

Benefits, Compensation & Workforce Diversity
At FirstEnergy, employees are key to our success. We depend on their talents to meet the challenges of our changing business environment. We are committed to rewarding individual and team efforts through our total rewards philosophy which includes competitive pay plus incentive compensation, a company-sponsored pension plan, 401(k) savings plan with matching employer contribution, a choice of medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, and life insurance programs, as well as skills development training with tuition reimbursement. Please visit our website at www.firstenergycorp.com to learn more about all of our employee rewards programs. FirstEnergy proudly supports workforce diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability. No recruiters or agencies without a previously signed contract. Unable to sponsor or transfer H-1B visas at this time.
Safety
Safety is a core value for FirstEnergy and is essential to all of our business activities. We ensure employees have the tools, information, and processes to perform their duties in a manner that assures safety for themselves, their co-workers, our customers and the public. Our goals are to provide a safe work environment, to maintain an accident-free, injury-free workplace, and to promote and maintain public safety. To meet these goals, we dedicate ourselves to achieving world-class safety standards.
Position Classification

Non Exempt

FirstEnergy Human Resources Team

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