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Trainee Nerc System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

System Operator Trainee: NERC System Operator certification to be obtained within the first 12 months of employment. If unable to obtain certification in the specified time period, employment for ...

Participating in all required training to perform as a System Operator * Real-time operational decision-making needs of customer facilities, including meeting NERC control performance measures and ...

Current NERC RC or BIT certification OR the ability to pass the NERC System Operator Certification exam within six months of hiring is required. This certification must be maintained. Experience ...

Complete training activities as necessary to achieve NERC System Operator Certificate at the Reliability Coordinator level TSC I and TSC II Responsibilities * Always complies with all applicable ...

The System Operator Trainee is responsible for successfully completing the System Operator Training Program and complying with FERC, NERC, PJM, and RF requirements. This position is covered by NERC ...

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Trainee Nerc System Operator information

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$27

$44

How much do trainee nerc system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee nerc system operator in the United States is $27.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee NERC System Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee NERC System Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical power systems, basic engineering principles, and typically a relevant degree such as electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with energy management systems (EMS), SCADA platforms, and pursuing or holding NERC certification are crucial for operating within regulatory requirements. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for monitoring grid stability and coordinating with teams. These competencies ensure safe, reliable operation of the power grid and compliance with industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by Trainee NERC System Operators during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Trainee NERC System Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced decision-making environment, mastering complex grid management software, and maintaining focus during long shifts. To overcome these, trainees should actively seek mentorship from experienced operators, engage in hands-on simulation training, and prioritize continual learning of operating procedures and emergency protocols. Developing strong communication skills is also crucial, as the role requires frequent coordination with other team members and external stakeholders to ensure grid reliability.

What is a Trainee NERC System Operator?

A Trainee NERC System Operator is an entry-level professional being trained to oversee the reliable operation of the electric power grid in accordance with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) standards. Their main responsibilities include learning to monitor grid conditions, respond to system disturbances, and ensure the safe, reliable delivery of electricity. Trainees work under supervision, gradually gaining the knowledge and skills necessary to become certified system operators. They must eventually pass the NERC certification exam to independently perform system operator duties.

What is the difference between Trainee Nerc System Operator vs Nerc System Operator?

AspectTrainee Nerc System OperatorNerc System Operator
CertificationsTypically in training, may have basic certificationsRequires NERC certification and relevant licenses
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised tasksOperational control room, independent decision-making
ResponsibilitiesLearning system operations, assisting senior operatorsMonitoring and controlling power grid operations

The Trainee Nerc System Operator is an entry-level role focused on learning and assisting, while the Nerc System Operator is a fully qualified professional responsible for real-time grid management. The trainee role involves supervision and training, whereas the experienced operator handles critical operational decisions independently.

More about Trainee Nerc System Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee Nerc System Operator jobs? Cities with the most Trainee Nerc System Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Nerc System Operator jobs? The most popular types of Nerc System Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Trainee Nerc System Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Nerc System Operator jobs include:
System Operator Trainee

System Operator Trainee

Georgia System Operations Corporation

Tucker, GA โ€ข On-site

$70.80K - $88.60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Under the supervision of the GSOC Power Delivery Training group and in conjunction with certified Transmission & Generation System Operators this journeyman position (with no authority to act independently) will be trained on the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to become a NERC Certified System Operator. Training will include a combination of classroom, field, online and control center exposure. The primary goal of the Trainee program will be to successfully prepare for and obtain NERC Certification.

After completing the Trainee program and successfully obtaining NERC Certification a Trainee will then begin an initial training program which upon completion enables them to enter into more advance training to support either Generation, Transmission, or both as a GSOC System Operator.

Completion of the Trainee role and obtaining NERC Certified System Operator will prepare Trainee to transition to progressive levels within the GSOC System Operator family of jobs. These positions, varying in required experience and level of complexity, have responsibility for the 24x7 real-time operation of the member owned transmission and generation system. System Operators write switching orders and issues clearances, work to restore customer outages in a safe and reliable manner and respond to alarms to maintain awareness of the system. System Operators work with neighboring utilities to schedule power into and out of the system as well as forecast system conditions and dispatch generation and transmission resources to maintain an economic and reliable balance of power on the system.

Job Duties:

  • Develop and demonstrate the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities required to obtain NERC System Operator Certification designation while simultaneously developing a deep understanding of the electric utility business and specifically GSOC's member owned model.
  • Work directly with Power Delivery Training and in conjunction with certified Transmission & Generation System Operators through classroom training, field visits to substations and generating plants to become fully versed in the system operations requirements for both the Transmission System Operator and Generation System Operator positions.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

Education: A high school diploma, GED or equivalent.

Experience: One to 3 years of work in a related field such as distribution operations, substation construction, relay maintenance or testing substation equipment, generation plant operations preferred.

Equivalent Experience: One to 3 years of technical training in a related field such as distribution operations, substation construction, relay maintenance or testing substation equipment, generation plant operations preferred.

Specialized Skills:

  • Required:
    • Must obtain and maintain Bulk Electric System Cyber Authorized Status as defined in GSOC's CIP Cyber Security Policy 301 and NERC Reliability Standard CIP 004 - Personnel Risk Assessment."
    • Ability to use Microsoft Office suite of products: Outlook, Word, Excel (Power Point a plus).
    • Must have sound decision making skills under stressful conditions.
    • Must be able to communicate effectively, both oral and written.
  • Desired - but can be trained:
    • AC/DC theory
    • Ability to read one-line diagrams.

Licenses/Certifications:

Must obtain a NERC System Operation Certification within six months after the Trainee's hire date. Management has the right to review and extend the time frame if needed on a case by case basis.

NERC System Operator Certifications accepted:

  • Reliability Coordinator Operators (RC)
  • Balancing, Interchange, and Transmissions (BT/BIT)
  • Transmission Operator (TO)

Physical Requirements: Some shift work will be assigned to gain a specific understanding of the requirements of 24x7 operations for the System Operation role for both transmission and balancing obligations.

Additional Information:

The System Operator Trainee is required to obtain NERC Certification through in-person instructions and on-line training. A NERC Certification test will be coordinated at least by month four of the training process. Subsequent tests, should they be required, will be scheduled at management's discretion. Obtaining NERC System Operator Certification is a requirement for successful completion of the Trainee program.

Rotating shift (including Days/Nights/Holidays) will be assigned during the training period and will be required of a successful candidate after completion of this training program.


Georgia System Operations Corporation is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, including veterans and disabled. We are a drug-free workplace. All applicants are subject to substance abuse testing.


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