ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

System Operator Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

Santa Fe County

Utility Systems Operator III

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$66K - $79K/yr

Provides basic training to Utility Workers and lower level Operators about the general operations ... When necessary, leads critical and complex evaluations to resolve system operations and maintenance ...

New

Santa Fe County

Utility Systems Operator II

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$57K - $66K/yr

Provides basic training to Utility Workers and Operators I about the general operations of water and wastewater systems. * When necessary, performs duties associated with housekeeping and cleaning of ...

New

Los Alamos National Laboratory

Operator 4/5

Los Alamos, NM · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Operates and monitor critical safety systems according to operating instructions. Responsible for safe execution of technical safety requirement surveillances or surveillances required to meet safety ...

Los Alamos National Laboratory

Operator 4/5

Los Alamos, NM · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Operates and monitor critical safety systems according to operating instructions. Responsible for safe execution of technical safety requirement surveillances or surveillances required to meet safety ...

Los Alamos National Laboratory

Operator 4/5

Los Alamos, NM · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Operates and monitor critical safety systems according to operating instructions. Responsible for safe execution of technical safety requirement surveillances or surveillances required to meet safety ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsSystem Operator JobsSystem Operator Jobs in New Mexico

System Operator information

See New Mexico salary details

$10

$31

$80

How much do system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for system operator in New Mexico is $31.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $37.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

More about System Operator jobs

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

The most popular types of System Operator jobs in New Mexico are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching System Operator jobs in New Mexico look for?

The top searched job categories for System Operator jobs in New Mexico are:

What cities in New Mexico are hiring for System Operator jobs?

Cities in New Mexico with the most System Operator job openings:

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

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

System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Operator job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,885 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Utility Systems Operator III

Santa Fe County

Santa Fe, NM • On-site

$66K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Salary : $66,539.20 - $79,830.40 Annually
Location : Santa Fe, NM
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202600329
Department: Public Works
Division: Utilities
Opening Date: 08/19/2026
Closing Date: 9/7/2026 5:00 PM Mountain
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit: AFSCME 1782
Department Contact Information: Tawny Baca (505) 992-9860
Union Eligibility: Position is Union eligible after completion of one (1) year probationary period.
Budget Amount: $39.82
Primary Purpose
To perform midlevel and advanced duties toward appropriate and regulatory compliant operations of water and wastewater systems owned by, or under the jurisdiction of the County to serve its customers and the public.
Essential Job Functions
  • Perform duties of mid-level and advanced complexity in connection with the general and specialized operations of water treatment, water storage and distribution, pump stations, biological and chemical treatment of waste water, treated effluent disposal and reuse.
  • Performs tasks of midlevel and advanced complexity associated with the operation, maintenance, repair and trouble-shooting of equipment, such as pumps, generators, pressurized vessels, blowers and compressors, metering devices.
  • Performs duties of mid-level complexity in the monitoring of chemical water treatment, biological wastewater treatment systems,
  • Adjusts flow rates, monitors and adjusts chemical doses, operates and trouble-shoots pump controls, performs repairs on equipment and maintains clear and accurate records of activities and events
  • Performs midlevel and advanced calculations to determine conditions associated with water treatment processes and operations
  • Prepares Water and Waste Water Compliance reports to be submitted to New Mexico Environmental Department, supervisors and others.
  • Performs midlevel duties in connection with customer service and relations in the field, interacts with technical support staff within and without the County personnel body.
  • Performs mid-level and advanced in connection collecting samples of water and wastewater, in accordance with standard procedures and regulatory requirements.
  • When required, performs mid-level laboratory testing on water and wastewater samples, interprets results, collects and interprets existing records, collects and interprets meter and gauge data, and maintains up to date operational logs.
  • Under general supervision, monitors and performs operations related with applicable regulatory compliance.
  • Performs duties associated with maintaining treatment plant work areas, grounds, equipment and tools, so that conditions are always conducive to a safe and health promoting environment.
  • Reports verbally and in writing about malfunctions, abnormalities and potential hazards associated with the daily operations of water and wastewater systems.
  • Performs public relations duties, makes presentations to members of the public to advance the public knowledge of water and wastewater systems.
  • Provides basic training to Utility Workers and lower level Operators about the general operations of water and wastewater systems.
  • When necessary, leads critical and complex evaluations to resolve system operations and maintenance problems.
  • Assessment of duties to include cleaning and maintaining facilities in good and health promoting conditions.
  • Performs duties associated with keeping inventory of equipment and tools, and reports about any losses, damage, or other conditions that may need managerial attention.
  • Performs mechanical work of mid-level and advanced complexity in connection with preventive and corrective maintenance of equipment typically found in water and wastewater facilities.
  • Operates road machinery and associated equipment used in day-to-day operations of water and wastewater facilities.
  • Performs work orders as assigned by supervisor.

Knowledge / Skills:
  • Knowledge of physics and arithmetic of midlevel complexity, as necessary to support and justify water and wastewater treatment operations, trouble-shooting and correction.
  • Reading comprehension of midlevel complexity and writing skills
  • Ability to learn occupational hazards and safety procedures in the wastewater operations and maintenance; ability to operate powered and manual equipment, machinery, and tools used in wastewater plant operations and maintenance; to establish effective co-working relationships; to understand and follow oral and/or written communication; to observe safety procedures.

Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent plus four (4) years of training and/or experience in the operation and maintenance of advanced, complex wastewater treatment facilities or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Must possess a NM Wastewater Systems Level III or Water Systems Level III certification.

Supplemental Information
Working Conditions:
Work is performed primarily outdoors and under different weather conditions, with exposure to dust, fumes, airborne particles, allergens, wastewater, heights, animals and extreme heat or cold. Work involves high risk and potentially dangerous situations working near hazardous/moving materials, equipment and machinery; and exposure to vibration and excessive noise. The use of protective clothing, equipment, devices and materials is required. Work requires the ability to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands or arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk, hear, and smell; clarity of vision at short and long distance; and the ability to lift up to 50lbs. Work schedules may include evening and weekend hours, plus 24-hour emergency and on-call duty. Walking, bending, stooping and lifting up to 100 lbs. is required. Travel outside Santa Fe County may be required occasionally.
Employee may be called out in emergency situations related to water & wastewater system operations. When contacted, the employee is expected to report to work unless there are special non-recurring circumstances, regardless of the location of the employee's residence. Must be available for 24-hour emergency stand-by duties when required. Must have telephone in the employee's residence or be available by an equally effective means of communication.
Conditions of Employment:
Selected candidate must submit to and pass a County paid pre-employment physical and drug/alcohol screening. Additionally, selected candidate must submit to and pass a county paid criminal background screening. Selected candidate must possess and maintain a valid New Mexico Class D Drivers License as incumbent shall be appointed to drive a County vehicle during the performance of his/her duties. Candidate must obtain and/or maintain all certifications required.
Santa Fe County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
It is the policy of Santa Fe County to ensure equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of race, color, age, physical or mental handicap, sex, national origin, ancestry, religion, serious medical condition, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or political affiliation.
Santa Fe County is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package to eligible, full-time and part-time employees who work 20 hours per week. You will receive plan booklets, which give you more detailed information about each of these programs.
BENEFITS OFFERED
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance
  • Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
  • Voluntary Life and AD&D
  • Short-Term Disability
  • Long-Term Disability
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Gym Membership
To learn more details, visit our website:
01
Do you have a High School diploma or GED?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No

03
How many years of training and/or experience in the operation and maintenance of advanced, complex wastewater treatment facilities or an equivalent do you have?
  • 4 or more years of experience

04
Do you possess a NM Wastewater Systems Level III or Water Systems Level III certification?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

Apply