Transition your military experience into a high-impact technical career helping power communities. As an Associate System Operator, you’ll join a mission-critical Control Room team responsible for safely operating and protecting the electric grid—similar to coordinating complex operations under pressure.In this hands-on role, you’ll train to master advanced systems used to monitor and control energy delivery across substations, distribution lines, and underground networks. Within your first 12 months, you’ll work toward earning a High Voltage Distribution (HVD) or Low Voltage Distribution (LVD) certification—building a strong foundation for a technical career in the energy sector.After certification, you’ll take on real-time grid operations using Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems to monitor performance, respond to system events, and ensure reliable power 24/7. You’ll execute switching operations, issue safety clearances, and manage work protections in alignment with the Electric Control Center Manual (ECCM), North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) standards, and regulatory requirements.This role is ideal for service members who thrive in disciplined, fast-paced environments and want to apply their operational mindset to the energy and utilities field—playing a direct role in keeping the lights on and supporting critical infrastructure.
Key Duties: Coordinate and direct both scheduled and emergency outage activities to safely remove and restore electric system equipment in accordance with the Electric Control Center Manual (ECCM). Issue switching orders, tagging instructions, and work clearances to field personnel to ensure safe and compliant operations. Monitor and control the electric grid in real time using Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems and other control room technologies. Review and execute switching and tagging orders for accuracy, safety, and regulatory compliance. Support system reliability and customer restoration efforts during both routine and emergent conditions. Complete and maintain High Voltage Distribution (HVD) or Low Voltage Distribution (LVD) certification, including ongoing training requirements. Participate in a 24/7 rotating shift schedule, including nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call responsibilities.Key Skills & Qualifications:Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.Ability to read and interpret technical diagrams, system maps, and operating documentation. Proficiency in monitoring and analyzing system data and responding quickly to changing conditions.Effective communication skills across multiple channels (radio, phone, email) to coordinate with field teams.Ability to independently operate control room systems and execute complex procedures with accuracy.Working knowledge of field operations, operating in a field team/crew environment, and familiar with high standards in safety protocols.Demonstrated ability to remain calm, focused, and decisive during emergency situations.
Michigan
Median pay: $117K/yr
What Power Distributors and Dispatchers typically earn in Michigan — from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data (May 2025). It's the going rate for this line of work, not this employer's offer.CareerPCS publishes these benchmarks with explicit limits so they are not mistaken for an employer offer or a prediction.Read the salary methodology