1

Utility Systems Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Utility Systems Operator information

What is the difference between Utility Systems Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectUtility Systems OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and relevant certificationsRequires a high school diploma and water treatment certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates and maintains utility systems in various industriesWorks specifically in water treatment facilities
Industry UsageCommon in utilities, manufacturing, and energy sectorsPrimarily in municipal and industrial water treatment
Job FunctionsMaintains utility systems, monitors equipment, performs basic repairsOperates water treatment equipment, tests water quality, ensures safety standards

The Utility Systems Operator and Water Treatment Plant Operator roles share similarities in certifications and work environments, but differ mainly in industry focus and specific job functions. Utility Systems Operators have broader responsibilities across various utility systems, while Water Treatment Plant Operators specialize in water quality and treatment processes.

What are Utility Systems Operators?

Utility Systems Operators are professionals responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining the equipment and systems that provide essential utilities such as water, electricity, steam, or gas to buildings, industrial sites, or municipalities. They ensure these systems operate efficiently, safely, and in compliance with regulations. Their duties often include inspecting equipment, reading meters, troubleshooting issues, and making adjustments to optimize performance. Utility Systems Operators play a vital role in preventing outages, minimizing downtime, and ensuring the reliable delivery of utility services.

What are some common challenges faced by Utility Systems Operators during shift work, and how can they be managed?

Utility Systems Operators often work in shifts to ensure around-the-clock operation of water, wastewater, or power systems. A common challenge is adapting to irregular hours, which can disrupt sleep patterns and work-life balance. To manage this, operators should prioritize healthy sleep routines, communicate with their team for smooth handovers, and stay vigilant during critical system checks. Many facilities offer support through rotating shifts or wellness programs to help operators maintain their well-being while meeting operational demands.

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

To thrive as a Utility Systems Operator, you need a strong understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, water or wastewater treatment processes, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional technical training or certifications. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and safety protocols is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are important soft skills for monitoring operations and responding to emergencies. These skills ensure reliable utility service, regulatory compliance, and safe, efficient system performance.
What are popular job titles related to Utility Systems Operator jobs in California? For Utility Systems Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Systems Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Systems Operator jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Utility Systems Operator job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.
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 26 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.