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Trainee Nerc System Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Power System Dispatcher

Folsom, CA ยท On-site

$117K/yr

Power system operator experience equivalent to the AD-02 level (advanced trainee), with centralized SCADA/EMS control of power system equipment with 34.5 kV or higher voltage power lines and ...

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Trainee Nerc System Operator information

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 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 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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nerc System Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Nerc System Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Trainee Nerc System Operator jobs in California? For Trainee Nerc System Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Nerc System Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Nerc System Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Trainee Nerc System Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Trainee Nerc System Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Trainee Nerc System Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Electric Utility Senior System Operator - Transmission and Distribution (NERC Certification Rate)

City of Redding

Redding, CA โ€ข On-site

$169K - $206K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description We are looking for someone to Direct and supervise assigned personnel in their related duties to coordinate activities with operation of the City of Redding electric power system. Supervise redistribution of loads and required switching to sectionalize lines in case of trouble and insure maintenance of service during emergencies. Review and direct the training of Electric Utility System Operators - Transmission & Distribution and Electric Utility Assistant System Operators - Transmission & Distribution in performance of assigned duties, and insure System Operator compliance with safe work practices and procedures.

Assist the REU designated trainer with the training of Electric Utility System Operators - Transmission & Distribution and Electric Utility Assistant System Operators - Transmission & Distribution in NERC/WECC Reliability Standards associated with Transmission Owner (TO), Transmission Planner (TP) and Transmission Operator (TOP) Classifications. Assist REU designated trainer administer training materials and programs for both in-house and outside training venues and track and monitor training programs and hours. Assist REU designated trainer with preparation to provide evidence of compliance with training requirements during an audit.

Inform relevant parties of system outage status in a timely fashion and provide periodic updates for the duration of the outage. During SOP-200 emergency situations, provide REU PIO with system outage status as requested. Evaluate assigned personnel job performance and recommend personnel actions such as merit increases, and disciplinary actions.

Assist Standard Owner to ensure all applicable NERC and WECC reliability standards for the Transmission and Distribution System Operator desk are in full compliance, report non-compliance events as required by applicable procedures. Maintain applicable reliability certifications as required Click here for complete job description Qualifications we're looking for Knowledge of: Principles of engineering, supervision, and business management; electric substations Electric generating stations Switching and dispatching operations Methods applied in coordinating load, distribution and transmission requirements Generation sources Utility service area System Operations-related safety rules and regulations Mathematics as it pertains to electric utility operations; and effective supervisory skills and techniques NERC requirements associated with Transmission System Operator duties Ability to: Interact effectively with the public and employees Direct the redistribution of electric loads, required switching, the removal and restoration to service of lines and equipment Exercise sound judgment in coordinating safety of personnel and equipment during emergencies Maintain effective relations with public, other utilities and with City personnel Prepare oral and written reports and supervise the compilation and preparation of related data Work harmoniously with other employees, both internal and external to the Utility Education, Experience and Special Requirements: Typical education would include a high school diploma or equivalent, with some emphasis in physics, science, mathematics and communications courses Typical experience would include five years of power dispatching experience or seven years of increasingly responsible experience in power substation, generation, and dispatching operations Possession of a NERC Certificate in one of the following areas: Reliability Operator, Balancing, Interchange and Transmission Operator, Transmission Operator Click here for complete job description What to expect from the Application and Exam Process You will receive notifications pertaining to this recruitment at the e-mail address and text message number provided on your application. Email correspondence may go to your spam and junk mail folders.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any portion of the testing or interview process should contact Personnel at (530) 225-4065 by the application deadline. Examination Process: An oral board interview will be administered. This recruitment will establish an eligibility list and may be used to fill future vacancies.

Selection Process: Final appointment is contingent upon: Positive past employment references Passing a city paid fingerprint criminal conviction check Passing of a pre-employment medical exam and drug and alcohol screening test (depending on position) Veteran's Credit: Applicants who attach a copy of the DD-214 to their application indicating Honorable Discharge from military service and receive a passing score on the examination process will have two (2) additional points added to their final examination score. The City of Redding adheres to Cal/OSHA COVID-19 requirements. AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/FEDERAL AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER.