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Utility System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OG&E

System Operator

Oklahoma City, OK

System Operator Senior or System Operator Staff • Job Code: 126859 or 126858 • Job Grade: 58 or ... related utility technical work experience in Substation Operations (Relay, Maintenance, etc ...

VT ELECTRIC INC

System Operator

Johnson, VT · On-site

$58.53/hr

Vermont Electric Cooperative (VEC) is seeking a System Operator in either our Johson or Newport ... Associate's degree in electrical theory (or related discipline) and/or 5 years of electric utility ...

Georgia Systems Operations

System Operator

Tucker, GA · On-site

The System Operator II has the responsibility and the authority to take any required action up to ... Schedules and coordinates interchange transactions with other utilities, power marketers, control ...

Vermont Electric Cooperative

System Operator

Johnson, VT · On-site

$41.49 - $58.53/hr

Vermont Electric Cooperative (VEC) is seeking a System Operator in either our Johson or Newport ... Associate's degree in electrical theory (or related discipline) and/or 5 years of electric utility ...

Vermont Electric Cooperative

System Operator

Johnson, VT · On-site

$58.53/hr

Vermont Electric Cooperative (VEC) is seeking a System Operator in either our Johson or Newport ... Associate's degree in electrical theory (or related discipline) and/or 5 years of electric utility ...

OG&E

System Operator

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

System Operator Senior or System Operator Staff • Job Code: 126859 or 126858 • Job Grade: 58 or ... related utility technical work experience in Substation Operations (Relay, Maintenance, etc ...

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Utility System Operator information

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$37

How much do utility system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility system operator in the United States is $26.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Utility System Operator vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectUtility System OperatorPower Plant Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in utility operationsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in power plant operations
Work EnvironmentControl rooms, substations, field sites managing electrical or water systemsPower plants, control rooms, mechanical areas operating turbines or generators
Industry UsageElectric, water, gas utilitiesElectric power generation facilities
Common Search/ComparisonUtility System Operator vs Power Plant Operator

The Utility System Operator and Power Plant Operator roles both involve operating and maintaining critical energy infrastructure. While Utility System Operators focus on managing utility networks like electricity, water, or gas systems, Power Plant Operators specifically control and monitor power generation equipment within power plants. Both roles require technical certifications and work in control room environments, but their primary focus and work settings differ based on the utility type and industry sector.

What are some common challenges Utility System Operators face in ensuring reliable service delivery?

Utility System Operators often encounter challenges such as responding to unexpected equipment failures, managing load fluctuations during peak demand, and coordinating with maintenance teams to minimize downtime. They must also stay vigilant for safety hazards and comply with strict regulatory standards. Effective communication and quick decision-making are essential, as operators frequently collaborate with engineers, field technicians, and dispatchers to maintain uninterrupted service and address emergencies promptly.

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

To thrive as a Utility System Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical or water system operations, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, control room software, and regulatory compliance programs is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are critical soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the reliable and safe operation of utility systems, quick response to emergencies, and compliance with industry standards.

What are Utility System Operators?

Utility System Operators are professionals responsible for controlling and monitoring the operations of utilities such as electricity, water, or gas distribution systems. They ensure the safe and efficient delivery of these essential services by managing equipment, responding to emergencies, and coordinating with field crews. Their role often involves using computer systems to track system performance, identify problems, and make real-time decisions to maintain service reliability.
More about Utility System Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Utility System Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Utility System Operator jobs are:
Utility System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility System Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,276 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
System Operator - Water/Wastewater Utility

System Operator - Water/Wastewater Utility

Essential Utilities, Inc.

Poplar Grove, IL • On-site

$26.36/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Aqua, an Essential Utilities company, employs people in a variety of roles within our eight-state footprint, ranging from field workers and customer service representatives who are on the front lines working with customers, to scientists and engineers who help ensure we're delivering reliable water and wastewater services to our communities. If you're looking for a rewarding career helping improve our environment and protect our natural resources, we encourage you to join our team!
About Essential Utilities
Essential Utilities, Inc. delivers safe, clean, reliable services that improve quality of life for individuals, families, and entire communities.
Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas) brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across 10 states. We are committed to sustainable growth, operational excellence, a superior customer experience, and premier employer status - including a competitive and comprehensive benefits package as well as a commitment to career growth opportunities.
We are advocates for the communities we serve and are dedicated stewards of natural lands, protecting more than 7,600 acres of forests and other habitats throughout our footprint.
Our company is one of the most significant publicly traded water, wastewater service and natural gas providers in the U.S.
Are you looking for a fantastic career at Aqua? We have a great opportunity for a Systems Operator in the Candlewick/Poplar Grove area. Under the direction of the Field Supervisor, this person will be responsible for performing tasks related to the installation, operation, and maintenance of equipment for our water & wastewater treatment facilities in the area; this person will also assist with customer service as well.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
  • Operate / maintain the facilities & equipment related to the wastewater treatment lagoons, lift stations, collection systems, and spray irrigation consisting of fixed sprinklers with pop-up heads for land application of wastewater effluent(s).
  • Operate / maintain the facilities & equipment related to the water treatment plant, well facilities, pumping, and storage facilities (as needed).
  • Operate / maintain the vehicles & equipment used in the water and wastewater facilities.
  • Perform / record inspections & tests on the systems' and facilities' operations; this involves reviewing the associated data.
  • Collect, analyze, and record water & wastewater samples for regulatory compliance as well as process control monitoring for proper operation of the systems.
  • Prepare reports required by the Company, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency [IEPA], the Illinois Commerce Commission, or other jurisdictional entities.
  • Respond to customer service, water distribution, and/or collection system work orders.
  • Assists with other tasks or projects, as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Possess a High School Diploma (or Equivalent).
  • Professional experience working with industrial mechanical systems and/or pumps is preferred.
  • Experience working in a Utility environment, especially with Waste Water or Water treatment, is preferred.
  • Must possess a valid U.S. Driver's Operator's License; CDL is a plus!

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
  • Excellent written and verbal communications skills; this person will need to be able to communicate effectively (clearly, concisely, and professionally) with internal customers.
  • Strong customer service skills.
  • Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to readily read, understand, and accurately follow operating instructions (both written & verbal).
  • Possess the mathematical ability to perform calculations which determine various ratios, dosages, and volumetric calculations that are required for the operation of the Wastewater Treatment Plants and Water Systems.
  • Computer literate with computer database tools as well as the ability to operate plant processes through computer-controlled equipment.

WORKING CONDITIONS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • May be subject to extreme temperatures, noise, wet and/or humid conditions, mechanical, electrical, gas exposure hazards, fumes, dusts, mists, gases and /or poor ventilation atmospheric conditions
  • Must be able to lift and move equipment in excess of 50lbs and the ability to work in confined spaces; a lift test will be required at part of employment for this position.
  • Working condition include travel to work sites of Essential Utilities and/or other constituents.
  • Company vehicle is provided for business purposes only.
  • This position participates in a weekly on-call rotating schedule to adequately staff a 24 hour/7-day operation.
  • This position will transition to a Tuesday-Saturday once 6 month training has been completed.

***This is a union position. Starting wage for a System Operator Trainee is $26.36. Employees may receive a higher starting wage if they have the applicable water/wastewater license for the job classification. All employees hired or entering the bargaining unit on or after Jan 1, 2023 will receive three dollars ($3.00) per hour less than the classification wage rate. The wage reduction will be returned in one-dollar ($1.00) increases once a year over a three (3) year period. Employee will receive annual contract increases.
Candidates who have a certification/license are eligible for an increase in pay and higher level position.
-System Operator I: Wastewater Certificate IV - Water Class D license
-System Operator II: Wastewater Certificate IV - Water Class C license
-System Operator III: Wastewater Certificate IV - Water Class B/A license
Aqua, an Essential Utilities company is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. Equal employment opportunity is provided to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to the following legally protected characteristics: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions, including medical conditions related to lactation), physical or mental disability, covered-veteran status, genetic information (including testing and characteristics), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state or federal law.
Aqua is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you have a condition that may prevent you from applying for a job online or need to request an accommodation during the interview process, please call (1-877-271-9012).
To maintain the integrity of the recruitment process and to avoid real or perceived conflicts of interest due to employment and/or assignment of family members and personal referrals, specific guidelines apply to the hiring and assignment of these individuals including, but not limited to:
  • Family members cannot result in a supervisor/subordinate reporting relationship
  • Family members cannot work in the same department.

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