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System Operator Trainee Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Energy transfer

Operator Trainee

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$31.70/hr

Under general supervision of Terminal Supervisor, the terminal operator is responsible for ... Calculate and input all product inventories and meter readings into appropriate systems * Perform ...

Energy Transfer Equity Lp

Operator Trainee

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$31.70/hr

Under general supervision of Terminal Supervisor, the terminal operator is responsible for ... Calculate and input all product inventories and meter readings into appropriate systems * Perform ...

CIS Secure

TEMPEST Engineer Trainee

Ashburn, VA · On-site

Modifies sub assemblies, final assemblies and systems per engineering drawings and CTPII ... May conduct detailed experimental testing OPERATING HOURS AND EXPECTATIONS: * This position ...

CIS Secure

TEMPEST Engineer Trainee

Ashburn, VA · On-site

Modifies sub assemblies, final assemblies and systems per engineering drawings and CTPII ... May conduct detailed experimental testing OPERATING HOURS AND EXPECTATIONS: * This position ...

CIS Secure

TEMPEST Engineer Trainee

Ashburn, VA · On-site

Modifies sub assemblies, final assemblies and systems per engineering drawings and CTPII ... May conduct detailed experimental testing OPERATING HOURS AND EXPECTATIONS: * This position ...

PDS Health

Operations Manager Trainee

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$29.25/hr

... systems * By end of development program, show competency in managing a team of both Front Office ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

PDS Health

Operations Manager Trainee

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$27.75 - $38.75/hr

... systems * By end of development program, show competency in managing a team of both Front Office ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

PDS Health

Operations Manager Trainee

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$29.25 - $39.25/hr

... systems * By end of development program, show competency in managing a team of both Front Office ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

PDS Health

Operations Manager Trainee

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$29.25/hr

... systems * By end of development program, show competency in managing a team of both Front Office ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

PDS Health

Operations Manager Trainee

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$30.50 - $42.25/hr

... systems * By end of development program, show competency in managing a team of both Front Office ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

PDS Health

Operations Manager Trainee

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$27.75/hr

... systems * By end of development program, show competency in managing a team of both Front Office ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

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System Operator Trainee information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$14

$28

$46

How much do system operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for system operator trainee in Silver Spring, MD is $28.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.86 and $29.09 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 are popular job titles related to System Operator Trainee jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For System Operator Trainee jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
System Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Operator Trainee job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,670 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Operator Trainee

Energy transfer

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$31.70/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Energy Transfer rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 86 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Sunoco LP is a leading energy infrastructure and fuel distribution master limited partnership operating across 47 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, Europe, and Mexico. The Partnership's midstream operations include an extensive network of approximately 9,500 miles of pipeline and over 100 terminals. This critical infrastructure complements the Partnership's fuel distribution operations, which serve approximately 10,000 convenience stores, independent dealers, commercial customers, and distributors.
At Sunoco, we take great pride in what we do and wholeheartedly believe our employees drive success for our company and our customers. We are always looking for the best and brightest talent and we are committed to making your job a challenging and rewarding experience.
This role has an entry pay rate of $31.70 per hour.
We are proud to offer industry leading compensation, comprehensive benefits including access to health, vision and dental insurance, 401(k) match with additional profit sharing, PTO, and abundant career opportunities.
Primary Responsibilities:
Under general supervision of Terminal Supervisor, the terminal operator is responsible for operating all Terminal equipment in connection with receiving, storing, transferring, and loading of petroleum products.
  • Gauge storage tanks and take meter readings for all products on a daily basis
  • Calculate and input all product inventories and meter readings into appropriate systems
  • Perform daily and monthly reconciliation of product inventories and thru-puts
  • Perform facility maintenance on office building, assets, vegetation, as needed
  • Perform the safe loading of petroleum products onto barges
  • Travel to various crude facilities with little notice to effectively assist crude terminals across the organization
  • Take product samples as required and performs/log required Quality Control tests
  • Perform and log all scheduled maintenance and compliance inspections
  • Ensures that all Terminal equipment are functioning properly and report failures to supervisor
  • Performs daily walk around inspections to identify potential risks and ensure good housekeeping standards are maintained
  • Issues work permits to contractors performing work at Terminal. This includes ensuring that pre-job safety meetings, lockout - tag-out, confined space entry, and gas tech monitoring requirements are met for all work performed at the Terminal; during the project, correcting or stopping all unsafe acts or conditions not in accordance with Company Policies and Procedures by any party entering the facility
  • Remain knowledgeable of, able and prepared to enact and coordinate the Emergency Response activities until relieved by supervisor or management personnel
  • Communicates product outages and equipment downtime to supervisor, customers, and other impacted parties in a prompt fashion

Minimum Requirements:
  • A High School Graduate, or equivalent
  • Ability to travel up to 50%
  • Effectively communicate with peers and management of various levels
  • Self-starter able work with little or no supervision
  • Carry a pager or cell phone allowing for shift hold over or shift reassignment, as well as call out at all hours
  • Able to use basic hand tools and operate basic product testing equipment
  • Proficient in mathematics and able to perform all required calculations
  • Proficient with Microsoft Suite
  • Must be able to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and written
  • Must have and maintain a valid driver's license for state of residence
  • Able to notice subtle Color differences in product samples
  • Must be able to work outdoors in extreme weather, perform heavy physical labor in a safe manner, and climb heights in excess of 60 ft.
  • In order to perform the essential duties, regular work attendance is required
  • Must be willing and able to work as a part of team, take direction from supervisor(s), prioritize work schedules, focus attention to details, and follow work rules

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