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System Operator Trainee Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Electrical Foreman

Colton, CA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

... operators, laborers, Electrician Trainees, and subcontractors. You will serve as: * The first-line ... systems. * Field leadership experience running a crew on California public works projects.

... operators, laborers, Electrician Trainees, and subcontractors. You will serve as: * The first-line ... systems. * Field leadership experience running a crew on California public works projects.

Electrical Foreman

Colton, CA · On-site

$49 - $51/hr

... operators, laborers, Electrician Trainees, and subcontractors. You will serve as: * The first-line ... systems. * Field leadership experience running a crew on California public works projects.

Electrical Foreman

Colton, CA · On-site

$110 - $150/hr

... operators, laborers, Electrician Trainees, and subcontractors. You will serve as: * The first-line ... systems. * Field leadership experience running a crew on California public works projects.

Electrical Foreman

Colton, CA · On-site

$49 - $51/hr

... operators, laborers, Electrician Trainees, and subcontractors. You will serve as: * The first-line ... systems. * Field leadership experience running a crew on California public works projects.

Mechanic

Perris, CA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Utilizes vehicle computer electronics systems to interpret failure modes to initiate repairs ... Mentor and provide assistance to Mechanic Trainees. * Participate in external, Department and ...

Mechanic

Perris, CA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Utilizes vehicle computer electronics systems to interpret failure modes to initiate repairs ... Mentor and provide assistance to Mechanic Trainees. * Participate in external, Department and ...

... system equipment, and perform facility repairs in a USDA/FDA production environment. Required ... Assists line operators and packers and service personnel, such as lift truck operators as needed.

Be Seen First

Troubleshoot electrical systems and jobsite issues * Maintain quality workmanship while enforcing ... Electrical Trainee (ET) with extensive commercial leadership experience * Retail Construction

Fire Captain

Irvine, CA

$106K - $143K/yr

Qualifying experience as a Firefighter begins at time of hire as either a Firefighter Trainee or ... System (CFSTES) Driver Operator 1A and 1B; In lieu of CFSTES Driver Operator 1A and 1B, the ...

Showing results 41-60

System Operator Trainee information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$28

$46

How much do system operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for system operator trainee in Riverside, CA is $28.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.10 and $29.33 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 Riverside, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching System Operator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for System Operator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for System Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most System Operator Trainee job openings:

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Join Our Team as an Electrical Foreman: Driving Growth, Culture, and Success

Are you an experienced leader in the construction industry, ready to take on a strategic field leadership role within a growing organization?

High-Light Electric (HLE) is seeking an Electrical Foreman to lead crews in the field and play a key role in delivering high-quality public works infrastructure projects across California.

ABOUT HIGH-LIGHT ELECTRIC

High-Light Electric (HLE) is a California-based public works contractor performing civil and electrical infrastructure work across 12 counties in Central and Southern California, with active expansion into Arizona.

Our projects include:

  • Traffic signals
  • Roadway lighting
  • ITS systems
  • Underground electrical infrastructure

We partner on state highways, federal roadways, and major civil infrastructure projects.

HLE is in an active growth phase. We are expanding our field leadership team and looking for professionals who want to build a long-term career — not just take their next job.

THE ROLE

As an Electrical Foreman, you will lead 1–2 crews in the field, including electricians, operators, laborers, Electrician Trainees, and subcontractors.

You will serve as:

  • The first-line leader on the jobsite
  • The primary point of contact for inspectors and clients
  • The most visible representative of HLE in the field

You will report to a Project Superintendent (on larger projects) or directly to a Project Manager (on smaller projects).

WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Lead 1–2 crews on public works infrastructure projects — electrical scope from layout through completion.
  • Coordinate daily with civil foremen, superintendents, prime contractors, and other trades to keep the project moving.
  • Enforce all safety standards every shift — Cal/OSHA, MUTCD, Caltrans Code of Safe Practices, and HLE's own safety program.
  • Run daily tailgate meetings, manage traffic control plans, and always maintain situational awareness for the crew.
  • Submit complete and timely field documentation through Procore — DCRs, photos, AS-Builts, RFIs, material orders, and more — from your phone or tablet, in real time.
  • Manage materials, tools, equipment, and assigned company vehicles.
  • Read electrical plans, single-lines, and schematics fluently, flag plan errors and constructability issues to the office in real time.
  • Mentor crew members and Electrician Trainees — teach the trade and build the next Foreman from within your crew.
  • Represent HLE professionally with public agency inspectors and our clients on the jobsite.
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR Required at hire:
  • Current and active California State General Electrician Certification (DIR). Electrician Trainee (ET) cards do not qualify.
  • OSHA 30 (Construction), NFPA 70E, and current CPR / First Aid.
  • Public works infrastructure electrical experience — traffic signals, roadway lighting, ITS, conduit and conductor systems.
  • Field leadership experience running a crew on California public works projects.
  • Comfortable using a phone or tablet for daily work — Procore, digital tailgate meetings, timecard entry, digital safety forms.
  • Valid California Driver's License (Class C required, Class A preferred). Must be insurable under our commercial auto policy.
  • High school diploma or equivalent
Required within 6 months of hire:
  • LiUNA Local 1184 mandatory training — completion of all union-required training modules and certifications. HLE coordinates scheduling and supports completion.
Preferred:
  • Bilingual English / Spanish.
  • Traffic Control / Flagger Certification, Confined Space, Aerial Work Platform, Forklift, Railroad Worker Protection.
  • Prior experience working on civil-led project sites alongside grading, paving, and underground crews.
Honest expectation-setting — please read before applying:

This work is performed outdoors, year-round, in California heat, cold, wind, and rain, often around live traffic on state and federal roadways and on heavy civil and infrastructure jobsites. If your experience has been entirely indoors — commercial buildings, industrial facilities, or interior environments — this work environment will be a significant change.

This is a stationary California-based role. We are not looking for traveling electricians passing through. If you are seeking a per-diem-driven traveler position, this is not the right fit.

WHO THRIVES IN THIS SEAT

Successful candidates:

  • Understand that this is a leadership role, not just a senior electrician position
  • Take ownership of safety, quality, coordination, and documentation
  • Are motivated to develop crews and grow into higher leadership roles
  • Can manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously in a fast-paced field environment
Benefits Include (LiUNA Local 1184):
  • Family medical coverage (Health & Welfare)
  • Pension
  • Annuity
  • Vacation fund
  • Training fund

The benefit package structure is designed to put more of your total compensation into your paycheck — ask HR for the full breakdown during your screening conversation.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
  • Company work truck for crew operations
  • Per diem when applicable per labor requirements
  • Company-sponsored training and certifications
  • Clear career path to Superintendent
  • Stable backlog of public works projects
  • Steady work — backlog of awarded public works infrastructure projects across Central and Southern California, with active expansion into Arizona.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

High-Light Electric, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Pre-employment drug screening and background check are required.

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