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System Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

PEPCO

Dist System Operator II

Bethesda, MD · On-site

Follow established operating practices and procedures as they relate to customer restoration, switching and operating for scheduled and emergent work. Manage real-time system alarm status and loading ...

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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 Jul 14, 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 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.
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:
What are popular job titles related to System Operator jobs in WA? 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,003 per year, or $37 per hour.

Dist System Operator II

PEPCO

Bethesda, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Who We Are
We're powering a cleaner, brighter future.
Exelon is leading the energy transformation, and we're calling all problem solvers, innovators, community builders and change makers. Work with us to deliver solutions that make our diverse cities and communities stronger, healthier and more resilient.
We're powered by purpose-driven people like you who believe in being inclusive and creative, and value safety, innovation, integrity and community service. We are a Fortune 200 company, 20,000 colleagues strong serving more than 10.7 million customers at six energy companies -- Atlantic City Electric (ACE), Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE), Commonwealth Edison (ComEd), Delmarva Power & Light (DPL), PECO Energy Company (PECO), and Potomac Electric Power Company (Pepco).
We're committed to creating an environment where every person can thrive. Our employee experience is grounded in four tenets that guide how we support our people: purposeful careers, growth opportunities, community impact, and support to thrive.
In our relentless pursuit of excellence, we elevate diverse voices, fresh perspectives and bold thinking. And since we know transforming the future of energy is hard work, we provide competitive compensation, incentives, excellent benefits and the opportunity to build a rewarding career.
Are you in?
Primary Purpose
PRIMARY PURPOSE OF POSITION
Optimize the practices, policies, procedures and programs to operate the electric distribution system in a safe, reliable and efficient manner with the welfare of employees, customers, the public and shareholders in mind. Follow established operating practices and procedures as they relate to customer restoration, switching and operating for scheduled and emergent work. Manage real-time system alarm status and loading conditions. Perform system restoration during storms and emergency events. Perform the work of receiving, recording, routing, dispatching customer calls, information, orders, and emergency calls. Serve as the tagging authority by leading and directing the application of the safety tagging procedures. Execute line clearance orders by confirming and directing the placement of tags. Lead, direct and supervise associates in restoring customers and safely clearing and restoring equipment. Control and operate the distribution system at various voltage levels. Span of control includes all devices connected to the distribution system typically beginning with the circuit breaker at the substation. Respond to all electrical service interruptions involving distribution equipment referenced above. Respond to electrical service interruptions up to and including Power Quality, Part Out and All Out categories at various voltage levels. Perform electrical switching on a planned, emergent and emergency basis on the distribution system. Maintain system voltages as well as line and equipment loadings within acceptable limits. Maintain and apply a working knowledge of the Exelon Management Model for business controls and meet management's expectation for conducting effective business. Position requires the ability to work extended hours, rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays and overtime on regularly scheduled days off to support operations for coverage during storms or other energy delivery emergencies.
Primary Duties
PRIMARY DUTIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES
  • Follow established policies, procedures and guidelines on distribution system operations. Maintain the system integrity, reliability and security of the distribution system in a safe, reliable and efficient manner. (25%)
  • Gather and analyze system data to determine the feasibility of switching requests. Verify the safe and efficient operation of the electrical system. (20%)
  • Compile switching routines within system loading and system configuration parameters and provide guidelines to ensure proper clearance for switching requests. Develop and provide emergency switching plans based on last contingencies (15%)
  • Direct and supervise all electrical switching, placement of safety tags and testing activities on the system in a safe, reliable and efficient manner. (10%)
  • Notify and direct appropriate personnel including but not limited to Operating, Construction, Customer and Contractor Personnel, as may be needed to take the necessary actions associated with outages, equipment failure, emergencies and various events on the distribution system. (10%)
  • Maintain system voltages, line and equipment loadings within acceptable limits (5%)
  • Keep supervisors informed of abnormal system conditions, major customer outages and equipment related problems (5%)
  • Maintain current system status information on SCADA displays, operating maps and switching routines. Interface with mapping and monitor the accuracy of new maps issued for project diagram and other related work. (5%)
  • Maintain operating log, interruption reports and associated records to accurately record system status and sequence of events. (5%)

Job Scope
JOB SCOPE
  • Functional control over various operating, construction, testing, customer and contractor groups in the performance of electrical switching, repair, testing and related work activities involving lines, transformers, and other equipment under the jurisdiction of the Distribution System Operator. The different groups include Distribution System Operations Field Operations, Aerial and Underground Construction and Maintenance, Transmission and Substation,
  • The consequences of operating errors or improper system operation could cost the company millions of dollars in direct, indirect and intangible costs such as the loss of customer good will, damaged company equipment, damaged customer equipment and damage to the company's public image.
  • Independent judgment is essential in making the real time decisions necessary to maintain the integrity, reliability and security of the Exelon Utilities distribution system.

Minimum Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Meet job requirements of Distributed System Operator 1 job requirements AND have at last 6 months Distributor System Operator 1 equivalent experience
  • Ability and willingness to progress to higher Distribution System Operator job classifications.
  • Ability to sit and stand for extended periods of time. Must have the ability to differentiate between and recognize specific colors on computer schematics that relay important system configuration information.
  • Thorough understanding of the Exelon Utilities distribution system, the ability to recognize system configuration and loading issues, ability to formulate contingency plans and thorough knowledge and understanding of proper operating procedures obtained through successful completion of formal OCC training
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Demonstrated analytical skills and judgment
  • Demonstrated ability to respond to emergencies and manage stressful situations
  • Ability to work shift work
  • Candidate must receive a
    Preferred Qualifications
    PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
    Bachelor's Degree in engineering, technology, math, or business, with a heavy technology curriculum.
    Benefits
    • Annual salary will vary based on a candidate's skills, qualifications, experience, and other factors: $84,000.00/Yr. - $115,500.00/Yr.
    • Annual Bonus for eligible positions: 10%
    • 401(k) match and annual company contribution
    • Medical, dental and vision insurance
    • Life and disability insurance
    • Generous paid time off options, including vacation, sick time, floating and fixed holidays, maternity leave and bonding/primary caregiver leave or parental leave
    • Employee Assistance Program and resources for mental and emotional support
    • Wellbeing programs such as tuition reimbursement, adoption and surrogacy assistance and fitness reimbursement
    • Referral bonus program
    • And much more

    Note: Exelon-sponsored compensation and benefit programs may vary or not apply based on length of service, job grade, job classification or represented status. Eligibility will be determined by the written plan or program documents.

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