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Utility System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aqua

System Operator

East Rochester, OH · On-site

$37.90/hr

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 ...

UC San Diego

System Operator

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$104K/yr

System Operator Under supervision, perform skilled journey-level duties in the operation, maintenance, inspection and alteration/repair of any utility and building system, controls, sub-systems and ...

UGI Corporation

System Operator II

Edwardsville, PA · On-site

As an employee of UGI Utilities, you can expect a competitive total compensation plan and ... The System Operator II position has the responsibilities and authority to take actions that are ...

UGI

System Operator II

Edwardsville, PA · On-site

As an employee of UGI Utilities, you can expect a competitive total compensation plan and ... The System Operator II position has the responsibilities and authority to take actions that are ...

JEA

System Operator

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

Thank you for your interest in the System Operator position! This is a continuous recruitment ... utilities. - Determines the need and implements emergency procedures that may include the ...

United Power

System Operator

Longmont, CO · On-site

... the system operator's job to quickly respond and restore the power grid to safe operating ... High School diploma or GED plus three years' experience in an electric utility environment; or an ...

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Utility System Operator information

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$13

$26

$37

How much do utility system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 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?

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 is a utility system operator?

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,276 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Engineer I/II/III/Principal

PPL Corporation

Harrisburg, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

PPL rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 53 rated energy and utility

Job description

Company Summary Statement
PPL Electric Utilities delivers safe, reliable and affordable electricity to more than 1.4 million homes and businesses throughout its 29-county service territory in eastern and central Pennsylvania. Through smart investments and innovation, it has built one of the most advanced electric grids in the United States. And, with over a century of expertise, PPL Electric remains focused on continuing to build the utility of the future, today. Regularly ranking among the country's best utility companies for reliability and customer satisfaction, PPL Electric has won numerous awards, including 30 J.D. Power Awards for providing top-quality service to residential and business customers. PPL Electric is a major employer and an active supporter of the communities it serves. Empowering employees, community members and initiatives across its service territory through volunteerism and investments in organizations that support education, sustainability, and wellbeing.
Overview

This position is responsible for Distribution Regional Engineering, specifically performing, under supervision, challenging engineering work but with limited direct responsibility. Specific job positions may include planning, designing, and/or overseeing construction, installation, operation and maintenance of components, systems and facilities used in the generation, transmission, distribution, and utilization of electrical energy.


Responsibilities

•Identifies opportunities for improvement and/or suggests improved methods.

•Performs engineering assignments associated with the design, construction, performance enhancement, cost effectiveness, operation, and maintenance of various plant equipment and systems.

•Coordinates activities of Engineers, technicians, or others assigned to specific projects as necessary.

•Work assignments are varied and somewhat difficult.

•Performs assignments in which evaluation, originality, ingenuity, decision-making, and authority.

•Supports various plant operations and maintenance groups with engineering based problem troubleshooting, identification, analysis, and resolution.

•Assists Engineer III and/or Senior Engineers with large and/or complex projects, as required.

•Assists with the development of station/engineering goals, objectives, budgets, programs, and procedures.

•Plans and controls all activities so as to provide an accident-free work place.

•Conducts work activities with regard to environmental rules and regulations.

•Regularly reviews assignments to assure optimum efficiency and cost effectiveness.

•Directs the activities of coops, bargaining unit employees and others, as instructed, as they perform various activities including installation or checkout of new equipment, troubleshooting, testing, tuning, etc.

•Performs other duties as assigned

•Complies with all policies and standards


Qualifications

Engineer I:
- ABET Accredited bachelor’s degree in engineering or engineering technology.


Engineer II:

- ABET Accredited bachelor’s degree in engineering or engineering technology plus 2 years of engineering experience. Utility system operator experience will also be counted as engineering experience.

 
Engineer III:
- ABET Accredited bachelor’s degree in engineering or engineering technology plus 5 years of engineering experience, or a master’s degree in engineering plus 3 years of engineering experience, or a PhD in Engineering plus 2 years of engineering experience.  Utility system operator experience will also be counted as engineering experience.

Principal Engineer:

- ABET Accredited bachelor’s degree in engineering or engineering technology plus 10 years of engineering experience, or a master’s degree in engineering plus 8 years of engineering experience, or a PhD in Engineering plus 7 years of engineering experience.  Utility system operator experience will be counted as engineering experience for this position.

Qualifications:

Engineer I:
- ABET Accredited bachelor’s degree in engineering or engineering technology.


Engineer II:

- ABET Accredited bachelor’s degree in engineering or engineering technology plus 2 years of engineering experience. Utility system operator experience will also be counted as engineering experience.

 
Engineer III:
- ABET Accredited bachelor’s degree in engineering or engineering technology plus 5 years of engineering experience, or a master’s degree in engineering plus 3 years of engineering experience, or a PhD in Engineering plus 2 years of engineering experience.  Utility system operator experience will also be counted as engineering experience.

Principal Engineer:

- ABET Accredited bachelor’s degree in engineering or engineering technology plus 10 years of engineering experience, or a master’s degree in engineering plus 8 years of engineering experience, or a PhD in Engineering plus 7 years of engineering experience.  Utility system operator experience will be counted as engineering experience for this position.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

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