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System Operator Trainee Jobs in Columbus, OH (NOW HIRING)

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

$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

$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 ...

Manifest Solutions

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Emergency Utilities Dispatch Trainee

Gahanna, OH · On-site

$65K - $100K/yr

As a Dispatch Trainee, you'll sit at the center of the region's electric grid -- monitoring live system activity, spotting problems as they happen, and directing crews to resolve outages and ...

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Emergency Utilities Dispatch Trainee

Gahanna, OH · On-site

$65K - $100K/yr

As a Dispatch Trainee, you'll sit at the center of the region's electric grid -- monitoring live system activity, spotting problems as they happen, and directing crews to resolve outages and ...

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System Operator Trainee information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$13

$26

$43

How much do system operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for system operator trainee in Columbus, OH is $26.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.22 and $27.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Columbus, OH?

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

What job categories do people searching System Operator Trainee jobs in Columbus, OH look for?

The top searched job categories for System Operator Trainee jobs in Columbus, OH are:

What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for System Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Columbus, OH with the most System Operator Trainee job openings:

System Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Operator Trainee job openings in Columbus, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,752 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

SCC Reliability Coordinator Associate - Senior

American Electric Power

New Albany, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

American Electric Power rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 107 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 53 rated energy and utility

Job description

Job Posting End Date
09-17-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
Working under the direct responsibility and authority of a System Control Center Reliability Coordinator Principal or Sr., assist with limited instruction in overseeing the safe, efficient, reliable operation and coordination of the AEP transmission system across various RTO regions. Assists with the coordination and arrangement of congestion relief on actual or contingent overloaded transmission facilities. Supports, through coordination with the applicable RTO, the arrangement and approval of switching operations and removal of equipment for maintenance of transmission lines and stations. Maintains acceptable AEP transmission system voltage levels. Responsible for developing proper notifications regarding outages and system disturbances to management, DOE, NERC, and FERC as required. This is an intermediate trainee position and does not take any independent real-time actions. All actions performed that could impact the real-time system must be performed under the direct supervision by a SCC Reliability Coordinator Principal or Sr.
Job Description
What you'll do:
  • Support the initiation and coordination amongst applicable RTOs, applicable Generator Operators, AEP Generation Dispatch, and the AEP Transmission Dispatch Centers, actions, including implementation of system emergency plans and procedures, required to mitigate actual and contingency loading conditions, voltage collapses, capacity deficiencies, energy deficiencies, and other system emergency conditions.
  • Assist in initiating, coordinating, and arranging among applicable RTOs, applicable Generator Operators, AEP Generation Dispatch, and the AEP Transmission Dispatch Centers for congestion relief on actual or contingent overloaded AEP transmission facilities, including arranging for off-cost generation dispatch to relieve local constraints.
  • Update daily operating plans with the latest system topology information and re-run contingency analysis on the day's plan to ensure the plan is kept current and the system is within acceptable system operating limits.
  • Communicate canceled or postponed scheduled outages as determined and/or assist with the return to service of facilities already out as needed.
  • Assist in the coordination and the restoration of customers and the transmission system following unplanned system emergencies. Ensure system reliability is restored as quickly as possible in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Assist in monitoring and maintaining real-time and contingent voltages of the transmission system and request the operation of Transmission system capacitor banks, reactors and other devices to maintain system reliability.
  • Monitor the real-time interchange metering points and enter corrected MW data into the appropriate energy accounting systems when metering data is incorrect or missing.
  • Maintain clear and detailed records of all pertinent activities involving the Transmission Systems Initiate notifications to designated management personnel of major interruptions, abnormal conditions and other system emergency conditions. Monitor and test communications facilities and report malfunctions to proper personnel for corrective action.

What we are looking for:
SCC Reliability Coordinator Associate SG6
Education:
  • 2 year Technical degree in Electrical/Electronic engineering
  • OR High School and 2 years experience operating a civil or military power system.
  • Must pass System Operator/Power Dispatching (SO/PD II) test.

Experience:
  • Entry Level: No experience necessary unless stated above.

Licenses/Certifications:
  • Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.

SCC Reliability Coordinator SG7
Education:
  • Two-Year degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering or related field
  • OR High School and 4 years' experience operating a power system or equivalent military experience.

Experience:
  • Six (6) months or more experience working as a SCC Reliability Coordinator Associate
  • Or One (1) year working as a Reliability Coordinator (RC) with a NERC sanctioned RC organization,
  • Or One (1) years of relevant work experience as a system operator performing the NERC function of Transmission Operator.
  • Must pass System Operator/Power Dispatching (SO/PD II) test.

Licenses/Certifications:
  • Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.

SCC Reliability Coordinator Senior SG8
Education:
  • Two-Year degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering or related field
  • OR High school and 6 years' experience operating a civil or military power system.

Experience:
  • One (1) year or more working as a SCC Reliability Coordinator
  • Or Two (2) years or more experience working as a Reliability Coordinator (RC) with a NERC sanctioned RC organization,
  • Or Two (2) years or more of relevant work experience as a system operator performing the NERC function of Transmission Operator.
  • Must pass System Operator/Power Dispatching (SO/PD II) test.

Licenses/Certifications:
  • Maintain NERC certification at the Transmission Operator (TOP) or Reliability Coordinator (RC) level and any Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) certifications and credentials associated with AEP memberships.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license

In addition:
  • Must satisfactorily complete, in such time frames as established by the Company, all required training to advance to the next higher classification within the line of progression or vacate the current classification.
  • Must acquire and maintain NERC certification at the Transmission Operator (TOP) or Reliability Coordinator (RC) level and any Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) certifications and credentials associated with AEP memberships.
  • Must acquire NERC certification within 9 months to remain in the Coordinator position. Ability to follow and communicate instructions clearly and concisely. Work a twelve-hour uninterrupted rotating shift schedule that consists of nights, weekends and holidays.
  • Willingness to accept on call responsibilities and call outs. Ability to work under pressure during periods of critical system conditions and to analyze conditions and make proper decisions quickly while dealing with diverse situations simultaneously.
  • Must have the ability to effectively work in a team environment and professionally deal with co-workers, customers and management personnel. This position requires a thorough knowledge and use of safety procedures

Where you'll work:
This role sits on site in New Albany, Ohio.
What you'll get:
SCC Reliability Coordinator Associate SG6($74,551-$93,188)
SCC Reliability Coordinator SG7($87,633-$109,544)
SCC Reliability Coordinator Senior SG8($98,993-$128,689)
In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do
At AEP, we're more than just an energy company - we're a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
American Electric Power (On-Site)
$74K- $128K / Year
#LI-Onsite
#AEPCareers
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
SP20-007
Compensation Range:
$74,551.00 - $128,688.00
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S - Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.
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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.

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About American Electric Power

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AEP Energy is a certified competitive retail electricity and natural gas supply provider. We proudly serve residential, small business and commercial and industrial customers. AEP Energy has over 100 years of industry experience with backing from our parent company, American Electric Power (AEP). AEP is one of the largest electric energy companies in the United States and ranked 204 of the Fortune 500.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbus, OH, US

Year founded

1906

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