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Transmission Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

W.W.Williams Company

Transmission Technician

Fresno, CA · On-site

$32 - $34/hr

Inspect vital parts to ensure they are in proper operating conditions. * Create a job repair plan based on the diagnosis. Work Experience & Qualifications: * 3+ Years of transmission repair and ...

W.W.Williams Company

Transmission Technician

Hayward, CA · On-site

$40 - $57/hr

Inspect vital parts to ensure they are in proper operating conditions. * Create a job repair plan based on the diagnosis. Work Experience & Qualifications: * 3+ Years of transmission repair and ...

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Transmission Operator information

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$10

$22

$36

How much do transmission operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for transmission operator in California is $22.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $21.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by transmission operators and how can they be managed?

Transmission Operators often work in high-pressure environments where quick decision-making is crucial, especially during system disturbances or emergencies. A common challenge is maintaining system stability and reliability while coordinating with multiple teams such as generation, distribution, and field crews. Staying updated on regulatory compliance and technology changes is also important. Successful operators manage these challenges by developing strong communication skills, staying calm under pressure, and participating in regular training and simulation exercises.

What is the difference between Transmission Operator vs Substation Technician?

AspectTransmission OperatorSubstation Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; certifications like NERC operator certification are commonHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications in substation systems are often needed
Work EnvironmentWorks in control rooms, on-site at transmission facilities, monitoring and controlling power flowWorks at substations, performing maintenance, repairs, and system inspections
Employer & Industry UsageUtilities, power generation companies, grid operatorsUtilities, electrical contractors, power companies

Transmission Operators and Substation Technicians both work within the electrical power industry, but their roles differ. Transmission Operators focus on monitoring and controlling the high-voltage transmission network, ensuring reliable power flow. Substation Technicians maintain and repair substation equipment. While their credentials and work environments overlap, their daily tasks and responsibilities are distinct, making each role vital to the power grid's operation.

What is a transmission operator?

Transmission Operators are professionals responsible for monitoring and controlling the flow of electricity through transmission lines and substations. They ensure the reliable delivery of electricity from power plants to distribution networks while maintaining system stability and adhering to safety regulations. Their duties include responding to outages, coordinating with field personnel, and implementing procedures to prevent or resolve power disruptions. Transmission Operators play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the electrical grid.

How to become a transmission operator?

To become a transmission operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training in electrical systems and safety procedures. Many employers require completion of an apprenticeship or technical program, and obtaining certifications such as the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) certification can enhance job prospects. Strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a 24/7 environment are also important.

What does a transmission operator do?

The responsibilities of an electric transmission operator are to operate systems for utility companies and monitor transmission lines. They observe and analyze voltage levels and circuit breakers, then record real-time readings. A transmission operator may need to anticipate the need for power in various conditions and provide necessary maintenance. Their duties often require the operation of switchboard levers to control flow in and out of substations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a transmission operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Transmission Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical power systems, grid operations, and typically at least a high school diploma or associate degree in a technical field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, energy management software, and NERC certifications are commonly required for this role. Strong decision-making, situational awareness, and effective communication skills help operators handle emergencies and coordinate with field crews. These competencies are crucial to maintaining grid reliability, preventing outages, and ensuring public safety.
More about Transmission Operator jobs
What cities in California are hiring for Transmission Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Transmission Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Transmission Operator jobs in CA? For Transmission Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Transmission Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Transmission Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,303 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

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

City of Redding, CA

Redding, CA • On-site

$169K - $206K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Salary : $169,893.36 - $206,519.04 Annually
Location : Redding, CA
Job Type: Full-Time (Status 3)
Job Number: 305E 8061 042026
Department: Electric Department
Division: 8061 - REU - Operations Engineering
Opening Date: 04/03/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Bargaining Unit: UPEC
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

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

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
NOTE: This is a summary of benefits and is provided as a courtesy. For specific benefit information, refer to the labor agreements (MOUs) of each bargaining unit.
To view the United Public Employees of California MOU,
THESE BENEFITS DO NOT APPLY TO EXTRA-HELP EMPLOYEES OR PART-TIME EMPLOYEES.
Holidays:
An average of thirteen and a half per year. Fire Association covered employees receive a payment in lieu of holidays. Holiday compensation for Redding Peace Officers Association and Redding Police Managers Association employees has been converted to base pay.
Vacation:
Two weeks per year up to the fourth year of service, three weeks up to nine years of service, three and a half weeks up to fourteen years of service, four weeks up to nineteen years of service, four and a half weeks up to twenty-four years of service, five weeks after twenty-four years of service. For accrual rates for Fire Department shift employees, refer to MOU. Part-time and temporary employees may be eligible for some vacation/paid time off benefits.
Sick Leave:
Twelve working days of sick leave are accrued each year. Unused sick leave may be credited toward retirement. For accrual rates for Fire Department shift employees, refer to MOU.
Health Insurance:
Excellent medical, dental, vision, and life for employee and dependent, and long-term disability for employees.
Retirement:
Full-time employees are covered by CalPERS (formula is dependent on hire date and member status in CalPERS) and are not covered under the Social Security System.
Administrative Leave:
Management positions are eligible to receive 40 hours of administrative leave per calendar year as authorized by the department director; additional leave up to 40 hours may be granted by the City Manager.
Deferred Compensation Plans:
Available for interested employees.
Union Dues: Some job classifications are represented by collective bargaining units, the employees of which may choose to join and pay union dues.
Part-Time Retirement Benefit Program:
Part-time, seasonal, and full-time temporary employees either participate in the Social Security System or the PARS Alternate Retirement System depending upon bargaining unit assignment.
SDI:
United Public Employees of California represented positions do not participate in SDI.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
Benefits described herein do not represent a contract and may be changed without notice.
01
Do you possess a current NERC System Operator Certification? If yes, please attach your certification to your application.
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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