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Transmission Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Corning Ford

Transmission Technician

Corning, CA · On-site

We are looking for a Transmission Technician to join our growing team! You'll be diagnosing ... Family owned and operated * Long term job security (low turnover) Responsibilities * Perform work ...

Corning Ford

Transmission Technician

Corning, CA

We are looking for a Transmission Technician to join our growing team! You'll be diagnosing ... Family owned and operated * Long term job security (low turnover) Responsibilities * Perform work ...

Corning Ford

Transmission Technician

Corning, CA · On-site

We are looking for a Transmission Technician to join our growing team! You'll be diagnosing ... Family owned and operated * Long term job security (low turnover) Responsibilities * Perform work ...

Corning Ford

Transmission Technician

Corning, CA · On-site

We are looking for a Transmission Technician to join our growing team! You'll be diagnosing ... Family owned and operated * Long term job security (low turnover) Responsibilities * Perform work ...

ERM

Partner, Transmission & Distribution

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

$172K - $236K/yr

Why This Role Matters Transmission constraints are now one of the biggest barriers to the U.S ... operators bring critical infrastructure online. What You'll Drive * Lead major electric ...

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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.

Transmission Planning Engineer

Pacific Gas and Electric Company

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$115K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Pacific Gas and Electric Company rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 53 rated energy and utility

Job description

Requisition ID # 170555
Job Category: Engineering / Science
Job Level: Individual Contributor
Business Unit: Strategy & Growth
Work Type: Hybrid
Job Location: San Luis Obispo
Department Overview
The Transmission System Planning (TSP) department performs Interconnection studies, multi-year assessments and develops a portfolio of transmission expansion plans and projects to meet the company's transmission needs for delivery of safe and reliable electric service to our customers while adhering to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC) planning standards. The members of TSP actively participate in the NERC and WECC standard development process for electric transmission reliability. The department is also involved in developing transmission expansion policy and strategy to meet the company's renewal portfolio standards (RPS) goals. In addition, the department provides support to project implementation groups, operations, law, contract, and other internal departments.
Position Summary
This position is represented by the Engineers and Scientists of California (ESC) subject to collective bargaining.
This position is responsible for providing technical support and transmission system reliability analysis that supports the development of transmission solutions for generation interconnection studies to meet California's RPS goals, CPUC's mandates and policy initiatives for generation, distributed generation and energy storage while meeting NERC compliance requirements. The Journey level engineer resolves problems and typically may require direction from more senior engineers and the supervisor. As experience increases the responsibility level increases as well as greater independence of judgment is expected with respect to standard solution problems. The position requires interfacing and coordination with both internal and external customers of PG&E Transmission Planning Department.
This position is hybrid, working from your remote office and your assigned work location based on business need. The assigned work location will be within the PG&E Service Territory
PG&E is providing the salary range that the company in good faith believes it might pay for this position at the time of the job posting. This compensation range is specific to the locality of the job. The actual salary paid to an individual will be based on multiple factors, including, but not limited to, specific skills, education, licenses or certifications, experience, market value, geographic location, collective bargaining agreements, and internal equity.
The annual salary range is:
CA Minimum: $115,128
CA Maximum: $175,080
Job Responsibilities
  • Plan, develop, and recommend to management and to the California Independent System Operator (CAISO), innovative, comprehensive, and environmentally acceptable transmission plans to ensure safe, reliable, economic and efficient operation of the electric transmission system.
  • Participate in CAISO Generation Interconnection and Deliverability Allocation Procedure Studies (GIDAP), and perform technical computer power flow and transient stability simulation analysis to meet all CAISO, NERC, WECC, and FERC compliance requirements
  • Support/Lead the generation interconnection study deliverables supporting basecase creation, powerflow and transient analysis, mitigation development including coordinating of the schedule and deliverables with CAISO and Interconnection Customers
  • Perform long-term studies that develop strategy and comprehensive plan to ensure safe, reliable, economic, and efficient operation of the electric transmission system.
  • Develop basecase assumptions and transmission system steady state and dynamic models for WDT and Rule 21 Tariff connected generation projects.
  • Perform transmission planning studies for retail load interconnection and develop comprehensive plan to ensure safe, reliable, economic and efficient operation of the electric transmission system.
  • Work with entities such as the CAISO and the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) on electric transmission planning projects and issues.
  • Review and develop electrical computer simulation models of transmission lines and substations for transmission planning databases
  • Develop Engineering Programming Computer Language (EPCL) , Python scripts enabled programs for computer simulation tools.
  • Review electrical single line and operational diagrams for development of future plans
  • Actively foster a safe working environment for self and for fellow employees. Look for and act to resolve any unsafe situations.
  • As required, actively participate in initiatives, workgroups, studies or industry forums that could impact the PG&E transmission system and support the inclusion of PG&E's interests.
  • Represent PG&E transmission planning at internal and external meetings and provide technical guidance on transmission planning issues.
  • Participate in complex studies such as RAS design related studies.
  • Mentor Associate and Entry level planning engineers.

Qualifications
Minimum:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited curriculum in the US or the equivalent from outside the US
  • 3 years of experience in electric engineering, planning and/or operations

Desired:
  • Experience in electric transmission planning studies
  • Experience in power flow analysis and simulation tools
  • Knowledge of NERC and WECC reliability standards
  • Previous experience with GE PSLF Program or similar load flow program
  • Experience in programming languages such as Matlab, Python, VBA, EPCL
  • EIT/PE Certification, registered Electrical Engineer in California
  • Master's degree in Electrical Engineering

Purpose, Virtues and Stands
Our Purpose explains "why" we exist:
  • Delivering for our hometowns
  • Serving our planet
  • Leading with love

Our Virtues capture "who" we need to be:
  • Trustworthy
  • Empathetic
  • Curious
  • Tenacious
  • Nimble
  • Owners

Our Stands are "what" we will achieve together:
  • Everyone and everything is always safe
  • Catastrophic wildfires shall stop
  • It is enjoyable to work with and for PG&E
  • Clean and resilient energy for all
  • Our work shall create prosperity for all customers and investors

More About Our Company
EEO
Pacific Gas and Electric Company is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that actively pursues and hires a workforce that reflects the hometowns we serve. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, religion, physical or mental disability status, medical condition, protected veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information or any other factor that is not related to the job.
Employee Privacy Notice The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) goes into effect on January 1, 2020. CCPA grants new and far-reaching privacy rights to all California residents. The law also entitles job applicants, employees and non-employee workers to be notified of what personal information PG&E collects and for what purpose. The Employee Privacy Notice can be accessed through the following link: Employee Privacy Notice
PG&E will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment in a manner consistent with all state and local laws.

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