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Transmission System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jobs for Humanity

AR · On-site

... Transmission Control Center customers MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Minimum Experience: System Operator Trainee: NERC System Operator certification to be obtained within the first 12 months of employment. If ...

Aep

Eng Del System Operator Assc

Salem, VA · On-site

... transmission system with the appropriate Reliability Coordinator (AEP SCC), Distribution ... Eng Del System Operator Assc (SP20-06) What you'll do: Essential Job Functions & Tasks * Assist in ...

sPower

Associate System Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

The Associate System Operator is responsible for complying with NERC, FERC, RFC, IURC and MISO ... Electric Utility experience in transmission and/or distribution operations. * Computer proficiency ...

TXNM Energy

System Operator, Next Gen - II

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$74K - $92K/yr

System Operator, Next Gen - II Location: Albuquerque, NM, United States Job ID: 6089541 Date Posted ... Operation of balance, interchange, market participation, transmission lines, substations, and ...

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Transmission System Operator information

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$14

$27

$44

How much do transmission system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for transmission 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 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.
More about Transmission System Operator jobs
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Transmission System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Transmission System Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,721 per year, or $27.8 per hour.
Power System Operator Trainee

Power System Operator Trainee

Minnkota Power Cooperative

Grand Forks, ND • On-site

$106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Power System Operator Trainee
Minnkota Power Cooperative is seeking a Power System Operator (PSO) who has maintained their NERC System Operator Certification or a Power System Operator Trainee (PSO Trainee) with the ability to obtain required NERC System Operator Certification.
Under the direction of the Training Administrator and a qualified MPC Power System Operator, a PSO Trainee is responsible for gaining comprehensive knowledge of all aspects of System Operations through formal training courses, on-the-job training, field training, and self-study. Training should be completed within 12 to 24 months to become a MPC Certified Power System Operator. Power System Operator Trainee pay range begins at $83,869 per year.*
A PSO is tasked with the authority and responsibility to operate and comply with all applicable North American Reliability Council (NERC), Midwest Reliability Organization (MRO), Minnkota Power Cooperative (MPC) operations standards, policies, and procedures while performing reliable routine and emergency switching. Power System Operator is responsible for directing and supporting the daily real-time operation of the regional electric system. This includes dispatch functions associated with responding to electrical outages, emergencies, and other electrical service work. Power System Operator pay range begins at $106,594 per year.*
Power System Operators are required to perform work on a rotating schedule. The schedule includes 12-hour shifts working days, nights, and weekend shifts. PSO Trainee will perform work on the rotational schedule after completing all necessary requirements to become a Power System Operator.
*Appropriate compensation will be determined based on a candidate's skills, education, and any previous relevant experience.
PSO Trainee Essential Responsibilities
Operation of Transmission System
  • Participate, under the direction of a NERC Certified Power System Operator, in daily routine or emergency operations of the regional electrical system
  • Develop a working knowledge of the EMS/SCADA (Energy Management System/Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system and become competent in its operation
  • Develop a working knowledge of the regional electrical transmission system including: Member Systems, transmission lines, substations, telecommunications, and geography.
  • Gain a working knowledge of the demand response system and basic power marketing principles

Communications
  • Competency in all communications equipment including radio, telephone, and other associated communication devices
  • Competency on various computer terminals for data entry, report writing, and data exchange

Maintain NERC Compliance
  • Attend training classes on operating transmission systems and other related subjects for related equipment
  • Attend field training with MPC crews for exposure and understanding of transmission, substation, and generation job functions
  • Comply with safe work and clearance procedures as they apply to routine and emergency situations
  • Adhere to company policies, practices, and procedures
  • NERC Certificated Balance, Interchange, and Transmission Operator test or higher
  • Perform other related duties as assigned or required to complete the trainee program

Organizational Competencies: Safety, Integrity, Teamwork, Innovation, Reliability
Job Competencies: Action Oriented, Composure, Customer / Member Focus, Decision Quality, Learning on the Fly, Perseverance
PSO Trainee Qualifications
  • Position requires at least a two-year technical education in electrical technology or equivalent.
  • Must be able to successfully pass a Personnel Risk Assessment.
  • Must possess or be able to obtain NERC certification as a Reliability Coordinator or Balancing, Interchange, and Transmission Operator.
  • Experience in metering, relaying, power plant technology, or military experience a plus.
  • Electricians or electronic technicians interested in the operation of high-voltage power systems and the power industry are encouraged to apply.
  • Must maintain a valid driver's license.

PSO Qualifications
  • Position requires at least a two-year technical education in electrical technology or equivalent.
  • Must be able to successfully pass a Personnel Risk Assessment.
  • Must possess or be able to obtain NERC certification as a Reliability Coordinator or Balancing, Interchange, and Transmission Operator.
  • Must maintain certification through completion of required continuing education hours.
  • Must maintain a valid driver's license.
  • Completion of Power System Operator program and equivalent experience in transmission system operation.

Physical and Mental Demands: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Physical Demands : While performing the duties of this position, the incumbent is primarily required to sit, stand, walk, stoop, bend and frequently utilize a keyboard/computer. Specific vision abilities include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, distinguish colors, and the ability to adjust focus.
Mental Demands: While performing the duties of this position, the incumbent will be required to problem solve, read, write and analyze data, work under schedules and deadline pressure, present information to others, work independently and use discretion and judgment for confidential or sensitive projects/issues.
Work Environment: While performing the duties of this position, the employee is exposed to an office environment indoors, and will travel outdoors to multiple locations dependent on work.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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