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System Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Amentum is looking for a BAS Operator/Controls Technician to join our team in Springfield, VA to ... This type of work involves most of the following: diagnosing control system concerns and ensuring ...

Amentum is looking for a BAS Operator/Controls Technician to join our team in Springfield, VA to ... This type of work involves most of the following: diagnosing control system concerns and ensuring ...

Amentum is looking for a BAS Operator/Controls Technician to join our team in Springfield, VA to ... This type of work involves most of the following: diagnosing control system concerns and ensuring ...

Amentum is looking for a BAS Operator/Controls Technician to join our team in Springfield, VA to ... This type of work involves most of the following: diagnosing control system concerns and ensuring ...

System Engineer

Quantico, VA · On-site

$70K - $170K/yr

Engineer, integrate, and troubleshoot system components including servers, operating systems (Windows/Linux), storage solutions, virtualization platforms, and related services. * Develop, update, and ...

System Engineer

Quantico, VA · On-site

$70K - $170K/yr

Engineer, integrate, and troubleshoot system components including servers, operating systems (Windows/Linux), storage solutions, virtualization platforms, and related services. * Develop, update, and ...

Experienced NDE Tech

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$33.80 - $44.30/hr

Must gain two additional tool technician certs and be an Assistant System Lead for a tool system; Operator: Must have 7 operator certifications and become a NDE Technician LVL I in the primary ...

Experienced NDE Tech

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$33.80 - $44.30/hr

Must gain two additional tool technician certs and be an Assistant System Lead for a tool system; Operator: Must have 7 operator certifications and become a NDE Technician LVL I in the primary ...

The Uncrewed Systems Operator must have experience operating hydrographic survey or oceanographic research technologies. This position involves travelling for long durations at sea aboard vessels or ...

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Showing results 1-20

System Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$32

$82

How much do system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for system operator in Virginia is $32.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $37.88 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 jobs make $500,000 a year?

High-level executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions often earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in large corporations. Certain specialized professions like investment bankers, surgeons, and successful entrepreneurs can also reach this income level, often requiring extensive experience, advanced skills, and significant responsibility.

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 do system operators do?

System operators monitor, control, and maintain the operation of critical infrastructure systems such as power grids, telecommunications networks, or transportation systems. They use specialized software and tools to ensure systems run efficiently, respond to emergencies, and perform routine inspections. Strong technical skills, attention to detail, and often certification or training are required for this role.

What operator job pays the most?

Among operator roles, nuclear power plant operators tend to have the highest salaries due to the specialized skills and safety requirements involved. They typically require extensive training, licensing, and certification, and often work in high-stakes environments with shift schedules. Other high-paying operator jobs include aerospace and oil and gas extraction operators, depending on industry and experience.

What is the work of system operator?

A system operator monitors and controls the operation of electrical, telecommunications, or computer systems to ensure stability and efficiency. They troubleshoot issues, manage system loads, and may use specialized software and tools to maintain continuous operation, often working in shifts to provide 24/7 coverage.

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 system operators?

System operators, often called sysops, are professionals responsible for monitoring, managing, and maintaining the operations of computer systems, networks, or power grids. They ensure that systems run smoothly, troubleshoot issues, and implement updates or changes as needed. In IT, sysops may handle servers, user accounts, and network security, while in utilities, system operators manage the flow of electricity or other resources to maintain service reliability. Their work is crucial for minimizing downtime and ensuring efficient system performance.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for System Operator jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most System Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to System Operator jobs in VA? For System Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various System Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,405 per year, or $32.4 per hour.
BAS Operator/Control Tech

BAS Operator/Control Tech

Pae

Lorton, VA

$49.12/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Amentum is looking for a BAS Operator/Controls Technicianto join our team in Springfield, VA to support our mission critical customer.Must be a US Citizen.And have and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.

Must be a U.S. Citizen and possess an active Top Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain a TS/SCI.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • A Controls Technician performs maintenance and repair of building controls and automations systems.
  • This type of work involves most of the following: diagnosing control system concerns

and ensuring occupancy comfort; troubleshooting local controllers, communication wiring,

programs, and schedules; ensuring proper set-points, schedules, and sequences of operation are

correctly programmed; performing preventative maintenance tasks such as point to point check-

out, sensor calibration, and software back-up.

  • Controls technician should work to ensure overall occupancy comfort is achieved while keeping focused on energy management.
  • An experienced controls technician should be comfortable interacting with the building occupants in person as well as over the phone, and should be able to recognize and identify opportunities to conserve building energy as it relates to the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

Additional Qualifications:

  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Formal or informal education or training which ensures the ability to read and write at a

level necessary for successful job performance.

  • Minimum 5 years' experience in building controls and automation
  • Certification as a building automation system operator (Siemens APOGEE; BACnet; or
  • MD Stationary Engineer license level 1 or DC Stationary Engineer license level 3
  • Ability to lift up to 45 lbs.
  • Computer Skills: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, etc.) as well as knowledge using

a laptop and stationary computer to operate the building automation system

  • Ability to use control technician hand tools and measuring and testing instruments

Compensation Details:

US $49.12 per hour

Original Posting:

05/07/2026 - Until Filled

Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language atLabor Laws Posters.