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System Operator Trainee Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Dispatch Operator

Reston, VA Β· On-site

$29.26/hr

Perform dispatching duties for other locations in the event of a failure * Assist in the training of dispatcher trainees * Routinely test alarms, communication systems, and other devices ...

Dispatch Operator

Washington, DC Β· On-site

$29.26/hr

Perform dispatching duties for other locations in the event of a failure * Assist in the training of dispatcher trainees * Routinely test alarms, communication systems, and other devices ...

Management Trainee

Fairfax, VA Β· On-site

$60K/yr

... operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its ... If you have any difficulty using our online system and you need an accommodation due to a ...

Management Trainee

Fairfax, VA Β· On-site

$60K/yr

... operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its ... If you have any difficulty using our online system and you need an accommodation due to a ...

Showing results 21-40

System Operator Trainee information

See Washington, DC salary details

$16

$31

$50

How much do system operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for system operator trainee in Washington, DC is $31.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.21 and $31.88 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 Washington, DC?

For System Operator Trainee jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching System Operator Trainee jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for System Operator Trainee jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various System Operator Trainee job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,374 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Job Posting Title TEMPEST Engineer Trainee

Ashburn, VA β€’ On-site

CIS Secure, Inc.
ManufacturingΒ β€’Β 51 - 200 employees

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Overview

CIS Secure Computing is seeking a motivated and experienced TEMPEST Engineer Trainee to learn the TEMPEST skillset and progress to eventual Certified TEMPEST Practitioner (CTP) certification. The CTP Trainee is responsible for the installation, troubleshooting, and configuring of all CIS products that require test. Work includes coordinating with production the pickup and drop off of equipment for test. It is expected that this position will grow into a Certified Tempest Professional position through the Tempest Certification process. This requires significant professional development. Qualified candidates will possess strong troubleshooting and problem solving skills, a strong electronic background, experience using DVM, Oscilloscope, hand tools and be self motivated. Active Secret Clearance required. Other duties as assigned.

Responsibilities
  • Work under the guidance of CTPII to test products, and learn the proper test techniques to achieve CTPI status through the Tempest Certification process.
  • Modifies sub assemblies, final assemblies and systems per engineering drawings and CTPII instructions to ensure proper operation and test requirement are met.
  • Troubleshoots electronics to determine cause and remedy of any malfunction
  • Work with CTPII to troubleshoot electrical and mechanical problems to determine the cause and recommend a corrective action.
  • Sets up and tests units to meet specified test requirements.
  • Recognizes failures and set up problems, isolates problems, and takes appropriate action to resolve those problems.
  • Operates oscilloscopes, generators, meters, power supplies, and test fixtures, and understand their use and function.
  • Operates hand tools and small power tools and understands their use and function.
  • Keeps supervisor apprised of all unresolved and/or potential problems that would negatively affect test schedules.
  • Completes and records proper test data sheets and production reports.
  • Provides support to the CTPII and other engineering staff, and works in other departments and/or miscellaneous assignments as instructed.
  • May conduct detailed experimental testing

OPERATING HOURS AND EXPECTATIONS:

  • This position anticipates mostly standard hours, with some variability based on surge requirements.
  • This position is expected to perform work on-site at the Ashburn headquarters.

TRAVEL:

  • Some limited overnight travel may be required.
Qualifications

CLEARANCE:

  • Active Secret clearance required.

EDUCATION:

  • Training in electronic theory such as one would receive at a technical trade school, military training, an Associate degree program, or 2-3 years of on the job training.

CERTIFICATION(S):

  • None required. Trainee position is designed to work towards attainment of Certified TEMPEST Professional (CTP) level 1 certification.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Must have experience using the following equipment: Oscilloscope, Signal Generator, DVM, hand tools, such as soldering irons, screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
  • Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.

CERTIFICATION(S):

  • Certified TEMPEST Professional II (CTP-II) certification.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This job operates in a professional office environment. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Flexibility related to work hours as project demands arise.
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary computer position for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to regularly walk.
  • Must be able to use hands to finger, handle, or feel.
  • Must be able to talk and hear.
  • Must be able to reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • Occasionally required to lift and / or move up to 75 pounds, assisted and unassisted.
  • Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, with occasional loud noises associated with a manufacturing environment.

Disclaimer:

This job description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities and other essential functions (as covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act) expected of an incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of an incumbent. An incumbent may be asked to perform other duties as required.

Benefits

WHAT WE OFFER:

At CIS Secure and its associated companies, Intrepid Solutions and Services and Darkblade Systems, we believe in promoting fair and transparent pay practices. We are committed to disclosing the compensation range for transparency and to set clear expectations for all applicants for this posting. This range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base salary for the advertised job, promotion, or transfer opportunity. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. The actual salary offered may vary based on various factors including but not limited to relevant experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, education, geographic location, as well as internal equity, and alignment to market data.Job Type: Full-time

Pay Range: $95,000.00 - $115,000.00 per year

Benefits:

  • 401(k) with company matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Medical insurance
  • Health Savings Account option
  • Flexible Spending
  • Vision insurance
  • Life and Disability Insurance
  • Ancillary offerings (Hospital Indemnity, Accident, Critical Illness, Pet Insurance)
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday pay

CIS Secure and its associated companies, Intrepid Solutions and Darkblade Systems, is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other protected class.

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