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System Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

COLLECTIONS OPERATOR I

Surprise, AZ · On-site

$28.53 - $42.79/hr

Incumbents inspect, clean, and maintain the stormwater system and components. This is the entry level of the Collections Operator series. EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE High School Diploma, or G.E.D ...

Directs power delivery system operations in accordance with established NERC Reliability Standards and SRP operating procedures. * Directs switching of facilities, issues clearances, and issues hold ...

Control Operator III

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$38 - $42/hr

The system supplies cold water to 47 buildings in the downtown area for comfort cooling. The Control Operator III will report to the Downtown Phoenix Operations Manager, will be responsible for day ...

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Strong communication and coordination skills with system marketers, especially around unit commitment, plant status, and Energy Imbalance Market operations. The ECC BA Operator Trainee is expected to ...

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Strong communication and coordination skills with system marketers, especially around unit commitment, plant status, and Energy Imbalance Market operations. The ECC BA Operator Trainee is expected to ...

Showing results 21-40

System Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$10

$30

$77

How much do system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for system operator in Arizona is $30.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $35.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by a system operator, and how can they best prepare for them?

System Operators often face challenges related to managing real-time system reliability, responding to unexpected outages, and coordinating with multiple teams during high-pressure situations. Staying updated with the latest operational procedures and practicing clear communication are key to handling these challenges. System Operators can prepare by participating in regular simulation drills, thoroughly understanding grid protocols, and building strong relationships with field technicians and engineers. Being proactive and detail-oriented helps ensure quick, accurate responses when issues arise.

What is the difference between System Operator vs Network Operator?

AspectSystem OperatorNetwork Operator
CertificationsTypically requires technical certifications in systems or control technologyOften requires network or telecommunications certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks in control rooms, data centers, or industrial facilitiesWorks in telecommunications or network operation centers
Industry UsageCommon in utilities, manufacturing, and industrial sectorsCommon in telecommunications, internet service providers, and data networks
Job FocusMonitors and controls system operations to ensure stabilityMaintains and manages network connectivity and performance

While both roles involve monitoring and maintaining operational systems, a System Operator primarily focuses on controlling industrial or utility systems, whereas a Network Operator manages communication networks. The choice depends on the industry and specific technical skills required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a system operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a System Operator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in electrical engineering or a related field, often supported by relevant certifications. Familiarity with SCADA systems, EMS software, and compliance standards like NERC is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help you respond effectively to system alerts and coordinate with other teams. These competencies are crucial for maintaining reliable operations, ensuring system stability, and preventing service disruptions.

What is a system operator?

A system operator works in the electricity industry and is highly trained to run a power grid to ensure the reliability and functionality of varying systems. As a system operator, you control and oversee the flow of electricity to a power plant or utility company that then supplies power to commercial and residential properties. Job duties include monitoring and controlling circuit breakers or converters, communicating with field crews and other personnel, fixing malfunctions, and reporting issues to supervisors. The preferred qualifications start with a bachelor’s degree in engineering; however, because most system operators gain experience through on-the-job training to start, a high school diploma may suffice. System operators continuously train and update their skills throughout their career to keep up with regulations and policies.

What are the most commonly searched types of System Operator jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of System Operator jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for System Operator jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most System Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to System Operator jobs in AZ?

For System Operator jobs in AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various System Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,357 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Operation Manager - Water Systems

City of Chandler, AZ

Chandler, AZ • On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


City Of Chandler (Arizona) rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

169th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Salary: $120,868.80 - $175,260.80 Annually
Location : 175 S. Arizona Ave, Chandler, AZ
Job Type: Full-time, Regular
Job Number: 2700015
Department: Public Works & Utilities
Division: 3830-WATER TREATMENT PLANT
Opening Date: 07/22/2026
Closing Date: 8/19/2026 11:59 PM Arizona
FLSA: Exempt
Job Announcement
The City of Chandler Public Works & Utilities Department is currently seeking qualified individuals interested in joining our team at our Pecos Water Treatment Plant as our Water Systems Senior Manager (advertised as "Operations Manager - Water Systems"). This position is a regular, full-time, exempt position scheduled to work Monday - Friday, 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.
Current City of Chandler employees may only hold one position and are not eligible for additional part-time or secondary positions within the City of Chandler.
Why work for Chandler?• Diverse and inclusive environment
• Up to 8 hours paid time off annually to volunteer in the community
• Dress code is business casual, with jeans on Fridays
• 3 medical plans to choose from along with dental and vision coverage
• Accrue 130 hours paid vacation in your first year, eligible for use immediately following accrual
• Accrue 96 hours paid sick leave in your first year, eligible for use immediately following accrual
• 12 paid holidays annually, with additional Winter Break leave at the end of 2026.
• Become part of the Arizona State Retirement System with a 100% city contribution match
• City contributions of 1% gross wages per pay period to deferred compensation
• Robust Employee Wellness program with $350 incentive
• Professional development opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement up to $5,250 annually, $3,200 for part time employees
• Free Tumbleweed Recreation Center membership
• Flexible schedule/remote work options (when available)
Who we are?
Chandler was the first city in Arizona to receive accreditation of our water and wastewater operations by the American Public Works Association, the toughest accreditation to achieve in the industry. The Utilities Division is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the City's water treatment plant, 32 ground water wells, and 19 reservoir/booster station facilities and share another water plant with the Town of Gilbert. The Utility also operates wastewater and reclaimed water infrastructure, including industrial wastewater/ brine reduction and three wastewater facilities. On average we treat over 64 million gallons of drinking water and treat over 30 million gallons of wastewater per day to class A+ reclaimed water to meet irrigation and industrial demands. Our water is received from four primary water sources: Salt River, Verde River, Colorado River and ground water supplied by our extensive well field facilities. We also use advanced treatment processes to recycle over 3 million gallons of industrial wastewater and return it back for industrial reuse. Service is provided to the City of Chandler residential, commercial, and industrial users by a network of 1,242 miles of active water mains, 1,040 miles of active sewer mains, and 92 miles of reclaimed water mains.
Who we are looking for
Our new team member will be passionate about supervising, managing, and leading the Water Systems Division's activities and operations. This includes overseeing fiscal, budgetary, and personnel functions, as well as collaborating on goal setting and policy development with the Director and Assistant Director.
To view the complete job description, please click here.
Minimum qualifications
• A Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Engineering, Physical Sciences or a related field; and
• 8 years of progressively responsible experience in water or wastewater treatment, including 3 years of supervisory experience; and
• ADEQ Grade 4 Water Treatment Certification upon hire or promotion; and
• ADEQ Grade 4 Water Distribution Certification upon hire or promotion; and
• A valid Driver's License with an acceptable driving record; or
• Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the work.
Desired qualifications
  • Experience working with municipal budgeting;
  • Experience utilizing CMMS systems, GIS platforms, asset management software, and Microsoft Office applications;
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment in routine and emergency situations;
  • Ability to communicate effectively with employees, contractors, elected officials, regulatory agencies, and members of the public.

This position is at-will and serves at the pleasure of the City Manager.
The City of Chandler will conduct a pre-employment drug and alcohol test, a driving record check, and a reference check as a condition of employment. An offer of employment is contingent upon acceptable results. All applicants hired will be required to be fingerprinted with successful results as a condition of continued employment.
Applicants for employment and volunteer opportunities should be aware of the City of Chandler's policies concerning the use of drugs and alcohol. These policies have not been altered by the passage of Proposition 207. The use of recreational marijuana is a violation of the city's Drug Free Workplace Policy. Certain positions within the city are required to submit to a pre-employment drug test. A positive result for drugs tested under the policy, including recreational marijuana, may be grounds for withdrawal of an offer of employment or volunteer opportunity. The examination process may vary if determined necessary.
The City of Chandler is committed to Equal Opportunity and Reasonable Accommodation.
The City of Chandler offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time and some part-time positions. For more detailed information on the benefits offered, please
01
Do you have a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Engineering, Physical Sciences or a related field?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have at least 8 years of progressively responsible experience in water or wastewater treatment, including three (3) years of supervisory experience?
  • Yes
  • No

03
In lieu of a college degree, do you have at least 12 years of combined college and progressively responsible experience in water or wastewater treatment, including three (3) years of supervisory experience?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have an ADEQ Grade 4 Water Treatment Certification or another state's equivalent certification?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have an ADEQ Grade 4 Water Distribution Certification or another state's equivalent certification?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Do you have a valid Driver's License with an acceptable driving record?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Briefly explain your experience utilizing CMMS systems, GIS platforms, asset management software, and Microsoft Office applications.
Required Question

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