To become a distribution system operator, you first must earn a high school degree or GED and have an interest in a technical field. Other qualifications vary based on the goods you are distributing. Water distribution system operators should have some experience with hydraulics, chemistry, and mechanical technology and may need to earn a water distribution operator certification. Electrical distribution system operators need strong computer skills and must pass a system operator exam. You also need a strong working understanding of electrical theory and the ability to make sound operating decisions.

If you are interested in a job related to Distribution System Operator, here are some popular related job searches with the most open positions on ZipRecruiter.

Top Types Of Distribution System Operator Jobs

List of the top 10 highest paying Distribution System Operator positions in 2026, with salary ranges, according to ZipRecruiter.

Northeastern Remc
Salary range: $29,000 - $31,000
Northeastern Remc is a typical job search query Most salaries for Northeastern Remc jobs pay between $29,000 (25th percentile) and $31,000 (75th percentile) annually. Take a look at the variety of open positions nationwide for Northeastern Remc job searches hiring now on ZipRecruiter.
Nerc Certification
Salary range: $97,000 - $140,000
Nerc Certification is a typical job search query Most salaries for Nerc Certification jobs pay between $97,000 (25th percentile) and $140,000 (75th percentile) annually. Currently, there are not many open positions nationwide for Nerc Certification job searches hiring now on ZipRecruiter. You can take a look at what is available and find similar job searches in this list.
Topre
Salary range: $30,000 - $70,500
Topre is a typical job search query Most salaries for Topre jobs pay between $30,000 (25th percentile) and $70,500 (75th percentile) annually. Take a look at the variety of open positions nationwide for Topre job searches hiring now on ZipRecruiter.
Fifo Companies
Salary range: $37,000 - $42,000
Fifo Companies is a more unusual job search query but still may give you interesting job results. Most salaries for Fifo Companies jobs pay between $37,000 (25th percentile) and $42,000 (75th percentile) annually. Currently, there are not many open positions nationwide for Fifo Companies job searches hiring now on ZipRecruiter. You can take a look at what is available and find similar job searches in this list.
Baler Operator
Salary range: $30,000 - $37,500
A baler operator controls and maintains an automatic machine that bales rubber pellets. As a baler operator, your primary duties are to calibrate the machine, observe the meters on the machine during operation, and take the wet bales out of the machine. Qualifications needed for a career as a baler operator include a high school diploma or GED certificate, job experience operating heavy machinery or postsecondary training to prepare you for mechanical operations, mechanical skills, a keen eye for detail, and knowledge of all safety practices.
Power System Operator
Salary range: $109,000 - $141,500
Power System Operator is a common job search query. Most salaries for Power System Operator jobs pay between $109,000 (25th percentile) and $141,500 (75th percentile) annually. Take a look at the variety of open positions nationwide for Power System Operator job searches hiring now on ZipRecruiter.
Overnight Forklift
Salary range: $34,000 - $40,000
Overnight Forklift is a common job search query. Most salaries for Overnight Forklift jobs pay between $34,000 (25th percentile) and $40,000 (75th percentile) annually. Currently, there are not many open positions nationwide for Overnight Forklift job searches hiring now on ZipRecruiter. You can take a look at what is available and find similar job searches in this list.
Fifo Plant Operator
Salary range: $34,000 - $52,500
Fifo Plant Operator is a more unusual job search query but still may give you interesting job results. Most salaries for Fifo Plant Operator jobs pay between $34,000 (25th percentile) and $52,500 (75th percentile) annually. Currently, there are not many open positions nationwide for Fifo Plant Operator job searches hiring now on ZipRecruiter. You can take a look at what is available and find similar job searches in this list.
Pepsi Forklift Operator
Salary range: $34,000 - $40,000
Pepsi Forklift Operator is a typical job search query Most salaries for Pepsi Forklift Operator jobs pay between $34,000 (25th percentile) and $40,000 (75th percentile) annually. Currently, there are not many open positions nationwide for Pepsi Forklift Operator job searches hiring now on ZipRecruiter. You can take a look at what is available and find similar job searches in this list.
Epj Picker
Salary range: $34,000 - $38,000
Epj Picker is a more unusual job search query but still may give you interesting job results. Most salaries for Epj Picker jobs pay between $34,000 (25th percentile) and $38,000 (75th percentile) annually. Currently, there are not many open positions nationwide for Epj Picker job searches hiring now on ZipRecruiter. You can take a look at what is available and find similar job searches in this list.

All Jobs Distribution System Operator Jobs 10 of the Most Popular Types of Distribution System Operator Jobs in 2026