ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

System Operator Trainee Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

NES Power

System Operator I

Nashville, TN · On-site

$49.50/hr

NASHVILLE ELECTRIC SERVICE NOTICE OF VACANCIES SYSTEM OPERATOR I-TRAINEE (Current openings are in the System Operations Section of the Power System Operations Department) 1. Minimum Certification ...

Albemarle

Utility Operator

New Johnsonville, TN · On-site

Trainees will undergo training and necessary assessments and progress into Utility Operator ... Experience with automated systems. Education and Qualifications: * High School Diploma or ...

Hydromax USA

Technician Trainee - Water

Nashville, TN · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

... performance system. * Properly use PPE and follow work zone safety protocols on a daily basis ... Perform repairs on fire hydrants and water main valve operating nuts. * Maintain open and effective ...

Airliquidehr

Sales Trainee

Chattanooga, TN

... Operating Income, and EBITDA 50% - Demonstrate practical application of knowledge and skills ... order entry system and wireless, hand held scanning device. * Self-starter; self-motivated ...

Airgas

Sales Trainee

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

... Operating Income, and EBITDA 50% - Demonstrate practical application of knowledge and skills ... order entry system and wireless, hand held scanning device. * Self-starter; self-motivated ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSystem Operator Trainee JobsSystem Operator Trainee Jobs in Tennessee

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 the most commonly searched types of System Operator jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of System Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to System Operator Trainee jobs in Tennessee? For System Operator Trainee jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching System Operator Trainee jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for System Operator Trainee jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for System Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most System Operator Trainee job openings:
System Operator Trainee jobs near you

System Operator I

NES Power

Nashville, TN • On-site

$49.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

NASHVILLE ELECTRIC SERVICE
NOTICE OF VACANCIES
SYSTEM OPERATOR I-TRAINEE
(Current openings are in the System Operations Section of the Power System Operations Department)
1. Minimum Certification Requirements
Associate's degree in electrical or electronic engineering technology from an accredited institution is required.
No experience is required.
  • Employees must not have a positive drug or alcohol test result within the past 12 months prior to a job posting.
  • Employees must not have any disciplinary actions that include suspension without pay within the past 12 months prior to the job posting. The disciplinary action date is defined as the first day of suspension.
  • Employees must have a "2.5" overall job performance on their last performance appraisal.
  • Employees must have taken and passed the most recent Safety Manual Test to certify for any job that would be a promotion.

2. Examples of Duties and Responsibilities
a. Assist and learn how to de-energize, clear, and tag lines and equipment with proper "hold" or "caution" orders for maintenance or new construction. Assist and learn how to inspect substations, report faulty equipment, and maintain daily logs of work activities.
b. Assist and learn to monitor and control the flow of power through the electric system using Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Systems (SCADA) and Outage Management Systems (OMS). Learn to analyze systems to restore interrupted power and to ensure safe, efficient, and economical operations of the electric system.
c. Assist and learn how to operate substation and line equipment under normal and adverse weather conditions to maintain system integrity and protect persons working on equipment or lines.
d. Assist and learn how to read metering devices, check protective relays for targets and station alarms. Assist and learn how to troubleshoot and restore power due to equipment failure or weather related outages.
e. Communicate with employees, customers, and other entities through personal contact, telephone, radio, writing or electronic means to provide information or to answer questions related to the area of responsibility.
f. Complete training program for System Operator I, including written material and/or on job training.
g. Assist and learn to work with other operating sections to perform high voltage switching to isolate and test protective equipment.
h. Assist and learn how to read and use substation drawings and/or equipment manuals when operating equipment. Update various reports, maps, drawings, logs and/or other systems as necessary.
i. Perform work in a safe manner to protect employees, the public, and property.
3. Working Conditions
The working environment of this job includes physical surroundings that are undesirable. There is regular of extreme exposure to multiple disagreeable elements or hazards. This job demands moderate physical effort. Regularly moves or lifts medium weight objects (15 to 40 pounds). Frequently walks or stands for significant periods. May require recurring bending, crouching, stretching or reaching.
4. Additional Requirements
Note: The selection process for this position will involve behavioral interviews.
Subject to shift work and 24-hour call.
5. Special Licensing and Certification
Must have a valid Class D driver's license from state of residence in accordance with state law.
Must be able to pass a physical abilities test.
NOTE:
The current Minimum rate is $35.03 per hour, and the Maximum rate is $49.50 per hour.
Applications must be submitted online and the deadline date for submittal is June 15th. If you have any questions, please call the Talent Acquisition & Employee Relations Office at Ext. 3676.
The statements in this job description are not an exhaustive list of all essential functions, duties and skills. Other duties may be added or deleted and this description may be amended at any time. Perform other related duties as required.
DATE: May 14, 2026
All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

Apply