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System Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Warnerbros

Live Events Operator

Sterling, VA

$38K - $71K/yr

Train live event operators as needed * All other duties as assigned Minimum experience requirements: * Ability and desire to work in support of a 24/7 environment, including weekends, nights, and ...

Warner Bros. Discovery

Live Events Operator

Sterling, VA · On-site

$38K - $71K/yr

Train live event operators as needed * All other duties as assigned Minimum experience requirements: * Ability and desire to work in support of a 24/7 environment, including weekends, nights, and ...

Nightwing

SIGINT Operator

Sterling, VA · On-site

$77K - $163K/yr

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration ... Nightwing has an immediate need for SIGINT Operators in the Washington Metropolitan Area. The ...

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System Operator information

See Washington salary details

$12

$37

$94

How much do system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for system operator in Washington is $37.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $43.27 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 Washington?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for System Operator jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most System Operator job openings:

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

System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Operator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,003 per year, or $37 per hour.

Lead GSOC Communications Systems Operator

Andrews, MD • On-site

Trace Systems
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Trace Systemsexternal

$112K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Overview
Job Title: Lead GSOC Communications Systems Operator Liason
Location: Joint Base Andrews, Maryland
Job Responsibilities
Trace Systems is seeking a Lead Government Security Operations Center Communications Systems Operator Liaison to lead 24/7 mission support for Executive Aircraft. This position serves as the senior operational interface among GSOC leadership, airborne Communications Systems Operators, technical teams, and commercial satellite communications providers. The project associated with this position is currently in the proposal stage.
  • Lead continuous GSOC communications support and help maintain 100 percent staffing coverage, 24 hours per day, 365 days per year.
  • Track Executive Aircraft in flight, coordinate response to communications issues and incident calls, and support trend-analysis activities.
  • Use Command and Control tools and approved collaboration platforms, including Mattermost, to support aircraft in flight.
  • Provide GSOC leadership with expert guidance on Mission Communications Systems aboard C-32, C-40, and C-37 Executive Aircraft.
  • Provide expert troubleshooting guidance to airborne Communications Systems Operators during MCS anomalies and outages.
  • Review GSOC flight-monitoring solutions and recommend improvements to web-based capabilities supplied by commercial SATCOM providers.
  • Lead shift handoffs, escalation, operational reporting, knowledge transfer, and coordination with engineering and incident-response teams.

In compliance with applicable state and local pay transparency requirements, the following compensation information is provided for this position. The base salary range represents the minimum and maximum compensation Trace reasonably expects to offer for this position at the time of posting. Actual compensation within the range may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, location, experience, qualifications, skills, and performance.
Salary Minimum: $112,000
Salary Maximum: $138,000
Trace provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, which may include health insurance coverage, flexible spending accounts, an employee wellness program, life and disability insurance, a retirement savings plan, company holidays, and paid time off (PTO).
Minimum Qualifications
  • Active, in-scope US Government issued Top Secret clearance (minimum); higher-level eligibility may be required based on assigned access.
  • Due to the nature of the work and contract requirements, US Citizenship is required.
  • Candidates must meet the applicable DoD 8140 qualification requirements for the assigned work role. DoD 8140 Work Role(s): 411 Technical Support Specialist, Proficiency Level: Advanced; and may qualify through education, military training, certifications, or a combination thereof.
  • Qualifying credentials include a Masters or Ph.D degree in Computer Science or Cybersecurity or Data Science or Information Systems or Information Technology or Software Engineering or completion of relevant military training.
  • Qualifying certifications may include SecurityX/CASP+, CCNP Security, CISA, FITSP-O, SSCP, or other DoD 8140-approved certifications. Higher proficiency-level or equivalent DoD 8140-approved certifications applicable to the assigned work role may also be accepted.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to coordinate effectively with technical and non-technical personnel.
  • Ability to work in a secure DoD environment and comply with applicable Air Force, installation, and program security requirements.
  • 5+ years of operational communications, command-and-control, airborne communications, SATCOM, or network operations experience.
  • Demonstrated experience leading shift-based operational support and coordinating real-time incident response.
  • Experience with C-32, C-40, C-37, Mission Communications Systems, executive airlift, COMSATCOM, or GSOC operations.
  • Ability to interpret technical information and guide operators during high-priority mission events.
  • Ability to work assigned shifts, weekends, and federal holidays in support of 24/7/365 mission operations.

Desired Qualification
  • Former military airborne communications, command post, network operations, or communications systems operator experience.
  • Prior military service or experience supporting Department of Defense or U.S. Air Force customers.
  • Experience supporting mission-essential communications in distributed, multi-site environments.

Education
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field preferred.

Trace Systems
Trace Systems Inc. was founded to support and defend our nation's security interests at home and abroad-- whenever and wherever. We provide enterprise IT, engineering, full life-cycle communications, cybersecurity, cloud and virtualization services and solutions to the United States Department of Defense and other federal agencies.
To Apply: We invite you to put your talents to work by joining a growing team of dynamic professionals here at Trace Systems! Be part of a culture at our leading-edge company where you can achieve great things while fostering a satisfying and rewarding career progression. To learn more about our current openings, text 'tracejobs' to 97211 or apply directly through our website at: www.tracesystems.com. #jointracesystems
Trace Systems is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.

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