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Transmission System Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

System Operator Under supervision, perform skilled journey-level duties in the operation ... transmissions and monitoring systems for all process controls for utilities and building operations.

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Transmission System Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$27

$44

How much do transmission system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for transmission system operator in California is $27.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $27.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Transmission System Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical theory, power systems operations, and a relevant associate's or bachelor's degree, often supplemented by NERC certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, energy management software, and real-time grid monitoring tools is essential for daily operations. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help operators respond quickly and coordinate with teams during emergencies. These competencies are critical to ensuring grid reliability, minimizing outages, and maintaining the safe and stable delivery of electricity.

What are some common challenges Transmission System Operators face during shift work, and how can they manage them?

Transmission System Operators often work rotating shifts to ensure the power grid is monitored 24/7, which can disrupt sleep patterns and personal routines. Managing these challenges requires effective time management, prioritizing rest, and staying alert during overnight or extended shifts. Operators also need to remain calm and focused under pressure, especially during grid emergencies or equipment failures, and regularly communicate with field crews and other control centers to resolve issues promptly.

What is the difference between Transmission System Operator vs Substation Technician?

AspectTransmission System OperatorSubstation Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical engineering or related field, with certifications like NERC certificationRequires technical diploma or associate degree, with certifications in electrical safety and substation operations
Work EnvironmentOversees high-voltage transmission networks, often in control centers or on-site at substationsWorks directly at substations, performing maintenance and troubleshooting
Industry UsageKey role in power grid management, ensuring reliable electricity transmissionSupports transmission by maintaining and repairing substation equipment

The Transmission System Operator and Substation Technician roles are closely related within the power industry. While the operator manages the overall transmission network, the technician focuses on maintaining and repairing substation equipment. Both require electrical certifications and work in similar environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are Transmission System Operators?

Transmission System Operators are professionals responsible for monitoring and controlling the flow of electricity through power grids. They ensure the reliable and safe transmission of electricity from power plants to substations and, ultimately, to consumers. Their job involves real-time decision-making to balance supply and demand, prevent outages, and respond to emergencies or faults in the grid. Transmission System Operators use specialized software and equipment to monitor grid performance and coordinate with other utilities and field personnel.
What are popular job titles related to Transmission System Operator jobs in California? For Transmission System Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Transmission System Operator jobs in CA? For Transmission System Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Transmission System Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,965 per year, or $27.4 per hour.
Electric Utility Senior System Operator - Transmission and Distribution (NERC Certification Rate)

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

City of Redding

Redding, CA

$169K - $206K/yr

Other

Posted 25 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.