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System Operator Trainee Jobs in Lanham, MD (NOW HIRING)

Lineman Trainee - 90413233 - Odenton

Odenton, MD

$45.67 - $50.74/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our ... systems. Essential Functions Duties include attaching appurtenances, relocate lines away from ...

Lineman Trainee - 90413225 - Baltimore

Baltimore, MD

$45.67 - $50.74/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our ... systems. Essential Functions Duties include attaching appurtenances, relocate lines away from ...

Traffic Signal Technician

Arlington, VA · On-site

$59K - $102K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating specialized tools and equipment, including aerial bucket trucks, to complete field work ... Using work order systems to document work, generate reports, and track performance data;

Histology Technician 1

Annandale, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Follows the standard operating procedures for embedding, to ensure quality of blocks and proceeding ... Tech Trainee position OR Inova HT/HTL program graduate eligible for ASCP certification

Lineman Trainee - 90413233 - Odenton

Odenton, MD

$45.67 - $50.74/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our ... systems. Essential Functions Duties include attaching appurtenances, relocate lines away from ...

Lineman Trainee - 90413233 - Odenton

Odenton, MD

$45.67 - $50.74/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our ... systems. Essential Functions Duties include attaching appurtenances, relocate lines away from ...

Maintain confidential trainee records, program documentation, reports, and correspondence. * Assist ... Experience with ERAS, NRMP, ACGME, WebADS, New Innovations, or similar systems is a plus. Skills

Operations Manager

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$30.50 - $42.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Overview $30.50 - $42.25 / Hourly The role of the Operations Manager Trainee (OMT) is to gain an ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

Showing results 41-60

System Operator Trainee information

See Lanham, MD salary details

$14

$27

$44

How much do system operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for system operator trainee in Lanham, MD is $27.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a system operator?

To become a system operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring post-secondary education or technical training in fields like computer science or engineering. Relevant skills include knowledge of control systems, communication protocols, and troubleshooting, often supported by certifications such as NERC or industry-specific training. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in operations or maintenance is also beneficial.

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 do system operator trainees do?

System operator trainees assist in monitoring and controlling industrial or utility systems, such as power plants or manufacturing processes. They learn to operate control systems, interpret data, and respond to system alarms under supervision, often gaining certifications or training in relevant tools and procedures.

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.

How to become a system operator trainee with no experience?

To become a system operator trainee, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some employers prefer post-secondary education in fields like electrical, mechanical, or computer engineering. Gaining basic knowledge of control systems, automation, and safety procedures can be helpful, and on-the-job training is often provided. Certifications in relevant areas or technical courses can improve prospects, but entry-level positions often focus on willingness to learn and technical aptitude.

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 cities near Lanham, MD are hiring for System Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Lanham, MD with the most System Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various System Operator Trainee job openings in Lanham, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,769 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Lineman Trainee - 90413233 - Odenton

Amtrak

Odenton, MD

$45.67 - $50.74/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago


Amtrak rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 98 rated public transport


Job description

Your success is a train ride away!

As we move America’s workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States. The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees.

Are you ready to join our team?

Our values of ‘Do the Right Thing, Excel Together and Put Customers First’ are at the heart of what matters most to us, and our Core Capabilities, ‘Building Trust, Accountability, Effective Communication, Customer Focus, and Proactive Safety & Security’ are what every employee needs to know and do to be most impactful at Amtrak. By living the Amtrak values, focusing on our capabilities, and actively embracing and fostering diverse ideas, backgrounds, and perspectives, together we will honor our past and make Amtrak a company of the future.

Job Summary

Lineman Trainees are responsible for the construction, maintenance, and installation of high voltage transmission, catenary, and signal transmission systems.

Essential Functions

Duties include attaching appurtenances, relocate lines away from existing lines, shift poles requiring newfoundations, install anchors and foundations, shift under traffic, move poles with wires attached, splice existing appurtenances, and install new foundations and certain designated power lines and signal transmissionsystems.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Must be a minimum of 18 years of age and a high school graduate or GED Equivalent.
  • Must have a minimum of 2 years' experience in heavy physical labor.
  • Must be able to lift 50lbs or more.
  • Applicants must have a valid driver’s license on the date of hire.
  • Must be able to obtain CDL license within 90 days of hire date. 
  • Pursuant to the regulations set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Amtrak shall conduct a comprehensive evaluation of a candidate's Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) to ascertain the presence of any disqualifying offenses that may impair their qualification to operate commercial motor vehicles, as delineated in 49 CFR Part 391.25 and 383.51.
    https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-III/subchapter-B/part-391/subpart-C/section-391.25
    https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-III/subchapter-B/part-383/subpart-D/section-383.51
  • Applicants must be able to perform basic mathematical computations including fractions and decimals.
  • Ability to pass required training with written exams including two weeks of safety training and required department training modules over a 24-month period to progress to qualified lineman.
  • Must read, write, & speak the English language clearly and have the ability to communicate using telephone and radio.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Basic climbing, rigging, and lineman experience is a plus.
  • Basic mechanical aptitude and knowledge of hand tools.
  • Electronic/electrical background or education is a plus.
  • Previous electric traction railroad experience preferred.
  • CDL License
Communications and Interpersonal Skills
  • Must have excellent written and oral communication skills.
Physical Requirements/Environmental Conditions

Applicants must be able and willing to understand and apply safety rules, practice safe work habits, identify safety risks and avoid potentially risky behaviors and situations. 

The hourly range is $45.67 – $50.74 (with opportunity for increases, as per the applicable collective bargaining agreement, after beginning employment). 

Health and WellbeingFinancial and RetirementWork and Family Life SupportHealth, Dental, and Vision Insurance401K Rail Pass PrivilegesWellness ProgramsRailroad Retirement BenefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramMedical Plan Opt-out CreditLife InsuranceCommuter and Flexible Spending AccountsNo-cost Personal Health AdvocateNo-cost Financial Advisor SessionFertility and Family Building Benefits

Some benefits are subject to the collective bargaining agreement. Learn more about our benefits offerings here.

Requisition ID:166914
Posting Location(s):Maryland

Relocation Offered:No
Travel Requirements:Up to 25%
You power our progress through your performance.

We want your work at Amtrak to be more than a job. We want your career at Amtrak to be a fulfilling experience where you find challenging work, rewarding opportunities, respect among colleagues, and attractive compensation. Amtrak maintains a culture that values high performance and recognizes individual employee contributions.


Amtrak is committed to a safe workplace free of drugs and alcohol. All Amtrak positions requires a pre-employment background check that includes prior employment verification, a criminal history check and a pre-employment drug screen.

Candidates who test positive for marijuana will be disqualified, regardless of any state or local statute, ordinance, regulation, or other law that legalizes or decriminalizes the use or possession of marijuana, whether for medical, recreational, or other use. Amtrak's pre-employment drug testing program is administered in accordance with DOT regulations and applicable law.


In accordance with DOT regulations (49 CFR § 40.25), Amtrak is required to obtain prior drug and alcohol testing records for applicants/employees intending to perform safety-sensitive duties for covered Department of Transportation positions. If an applicant/employee refuses to provide written consent for Amtrak to obtain these records, the individual will not be permitted to perform safety-sensitive functions.

In accordance with federal law governing security checks of covered individuals for providers of public transportation (Title 6 U.S.C. §1143), Amtrak is required to screen applicants for any permanent or interim disqualifying criminal offenses.


Note that any education requirement listed above may be deemed satisfied if you have an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Amtrak is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/color, to include traits historically associated with race, including but not limited to, hair texture and hairstyles such as braids, locks and twists, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related conditions, such as lactation), national origin/ethnicity, disability (intellectual, mental and physical), veteran status, marital status, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, genetic information, citizenship or any other personal characteristics protected by law.


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About Amtrak

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States. The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees.

Industry

Travel arrangement services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

1971