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Trainee Nerc System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Experience supporting NERC reliability standard compliance in a control center or bulk electric system environment. * Ability to accurately document system events, operating instructions, and ...

Puget Sound Energy's Electric Operations team is seeking a System Operator Trainee to help keep our electrical system running safely and reliably. In this role, you'll train to operate PSE ...

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Complies with NERC standards * Authority to implement real time actions to ensure the stable ... System Operator I * High School Diploma or GED equivalent * Must be computer literate and ...

... NERC certification through CEHs Complies with NERC standards Authority to implement real time ... System Operator I High School Diploma or GED equivalent Must be computer literate and proficient in ...

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Trainee Nerc System Operator information

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$14

$27

$44

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

As of Aug 21, 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 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Trainee Nerc System Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,721 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

System Operations Technical Trainer or Senior System Operations Technical Trainer

Duke Energy Corporation

Plainfield, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Duke Energy rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 167 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 87 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Important Application Submission Information
In order to ensure your application is successfully received before the job posting expires, please submit your application by 11:59 PM on Sunday, August 23, 2026
More than a career - a chance to make a difference in people's lives.
Build an exciting, rewarding career with us - help us make a difference for millions of people every day. Consider joining the Duke Energy team, where you'll find a friendly work environment, opportunities for growth and development, recognition for your work, and competitive pay and benefits.
*This position will be hired at either the System Operations Tech Trainer Level or Senior Operations Tech Level based on experience and credentials*
Position Summary
This position is one that is responsible for providing knowledge and competency-based training to operating personnel expected to perform the system operations control center functions required by Duke Energy. Persons hired into this position will be responsible for developing new and experienced system operators using the training methodologies identified in the entity's System Operator Training Program Manual and in accordance with industry guidelines. They will be responsible for analyzing, designing and developing training materials that prepare the system operator to operate the bulk electric system reliably. Persons hired into this position will be responsible for evaluating learning through the skillful use of assessment tools and performance demonstration using simulation technology. They will be mentored by experienced System Operations trainers and provided train the trainer opportunities. Persons hired into this position will be expected to develop the required competencies necessary to be successful in the role of a System Operations Technical Trainer fairly quickly. If it is determined by the Training Director & General Manager, Grid Operations that the overall performance of the person hired in this role does not fit that of a System Operator Technical Trainer, they may be removed from the position after approximately one year of training development or at any time deemed appropriate by leadership.
Responsibilities
  • Responsible for overseeing the training and development of new Bulk Electric System Operators through the effective use of the ADDIE Systematic Approach to Training and in accordance with the NERC PER Training Standards and Duke Energy's System Operator Qualification Program requirements.
  • Responsible for overseeing the performance development of NERC Certified Bulk Electric System Operators through the effective use of the ADDIE Systematic Approach to Training and in accordance with the NERC PER Training Standards, NERC System Operator Certification Program, NERC Continuing Education Program and any other regional and company-specific requirements. This includes but is not limited to writing NERC CE Approved Individual Learning Activity applications, and for executing the training in compliance with applicable FERC Orders including the FERC Standards of Conduct.
  • Responsible for collaborating with the Director and trainers within the SysOps training organization to remain abreast of current and emerging training practices, trends and methods; for discovering innovative approaches to training system operators on the relevant NERC Reliability Standard requirements. They will be expected to provide an optimal learning experience to the operators ensuring that the operator is given the necessary tools and content, to perform real time actions in normal, abnormal and emergency conditions on the Bulk Electric System.
  • Responsible for communicating any emerging training tools and methods that are observed as program enhancements, to the Training Director for consideration.
  • Responsible for interfacing with file and data management tools to accurately document a System Operator's initial training & and for documenting and tracking NERC Certified System Operators continuing education training hours in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the NERC System Operator Continuing Education Program.
  • Responsible for developing training for operationally-specific simulation scenarios; operating the training simulator and for developing content or working with an e-learning SME, to develop content for the web-based environment.
  • Responsible for handling the unexpected training challenges (e.g. technology malfunctions) in the system operator's training environment without compromising the quality of the learning experience and for keeping the Training Director informed of such activities without which the proper counsel or support from the manager, could have a negative impact on the operator's learning experience.
  • Effective in engaging the ECC GMs and Managers in the planning of training activities and for keeping them informed of relevant training matters that affect their group's training.
  • Responsible for providing across all of the PGO Organization, positive and professional interactions and for demonstrating an "actively caring" attitude that represents the diverse and inclusive workplace Duke Energy endorses.

Required/Basic Qualifications for System Ops Tech Trainer
  • Technical degree
  • In addition to required degree, two (2) year related work experience
  • In lieu of Technical degree(s), High School/GED AND 4 year(s) related work experience

Required/Basic Qualifications for Senior System Ops Tech Trainer
  • Technical degree
  • In addition to required degree, four (4) year related work experience
  • In lieu of Technical degree(s) AND 4 year(s) related work experience listed above, High School/GED AND 6 year(s) related work experience
  • NERC Certified Operator

Desired Qualifications
  • In addition to desired degree, 2 years related work experience where commitment to training was demonstrated in a support role.

Additional Preferred Qualifications
  • Excellent People skills. Demonstrated credibility from working effectively with operators and leadership with diverse personalities from various socio-economic, cultural and ethnic backgrounds
  • Excellent Communication Skills. Demonstrated consistency in communicating throughout the planning, coordination up to and including the implementation training plan for any upcoming training cycle, to all involved in the execution of the plan, in a timely manner
  • Accountable to Training manager and to team. Dependable. Consistently demonstrates attitude of a team player. Actively participates in staff calls and meetings. Able to lead training meetings in the absence of the Training Manager
  • Good written and verbal communications skills
  • Demonstrated excellence in job performance at previous level
  • External to the organization, persons performing this role have positioned themselves as a leader in training by effectively presenting and/or by facilitating sessions for operator conferences and workshops, through ongoing self-directed personal development and through their knowledge and skills associated with the operation of the Dispatch Training Simulator
  • Demonstrated competencies in Presentation Skills, Conflict Management, Microsoft Office products such as PowerPoint, Word & Excel
  • Demonstrated knowledge of Duke Energy's culture of compliance
  • Experienced in Course Development

Working Conditions
  • Onsite Mobility Classification - Work will be performed at a company facility.
  • Work schedule would typically be a daytime schedule commensurate with the region's training schedule and is subject but not likely to change annually.
  • May include periodic support in the control room, occasional travel to operator conferences and training workshops.

Travel Requirements
Relocation Assistance Provided (as applicable)
No
Represented/Union Position
No
Visa Sponsored Position
No. This is not a Visa Sponsored Position. This role requires the ability to work lawfully in the U.S. without employment-based immigration sponsorship, now or in the future.
Please note that in order to be considered for this position, you must possess all of the basic/required qualifications.
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About Duke Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Duke Energy, a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America’s largest energy holding companies. Our electric utilities serve 8.2 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 50,000 megawatts of energy capacity. Our natural gas unit serves 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. Our company employs 28,000 people.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1904