Associate System Operator

Are you ready to be part of a company that's not just talking about the future, but actively shaping it? Join The AES Corporation, the largest US-based global power company with a team of 8,300 employees across 12 countries.  
 
AES has been ranked #1 by BloombergNEF in renewable energy sales to corporations in the US and Americas for five consecutive years, providing electricity for millions of people worldwide.  
 
We are proud to foster a strong workplace culture, earning prominent positions in Great Place to Work™ rankings across the markets where we operate. AES was also named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies for the 13th consecutive year in 2026, highlighting our dedication to integrity, transparency, and responsible business practices.  

Our spirit of innovation continues to earn industry recognition. AES is the only seven-time winner of the Edison Electric Institute’s Edison Awards in the twenty-first century, a distinction honoring global leadership in advancing the electric power industry. 
 
If you're ready to be part of a company that's not just adapting to change, but driving it, AES is the place for you. We're not just building a more sustainable future, we're powering it. Apply now and energize your career with a true leader in global energy. 

Under the general supervision of the Lead System Operator and Team Leader of System Operations, the Associate System Operator supports the safe, reliable, economical, and environmentally responsible operation of the Bulk Electric System.

This responsibility extends from generating station substations through distribution substations. The Associate System Operator helps ensure compliance with applicable NERC, FERC, RFC, IURC, and MISO requirements and supports field personnel during switching operations involving the Bulk Electric System.

This is a developmental role that provides training, hands-on experience, and opportunities for professional growth within System Operations.

Primary Responsibilities

• Participate in training activities to develop the knowledge and skills required for the operation of the Bulk Electric System.
• Assist with field switching operations performed by authorized personnel, including Substation Inspectors/Switchmen, Substation Mechanics, Electricians, Line Technicians, Relay/SCADA Specialists, Trouble Technicians, and other personnel involved in system operations.
• During emergency operating conditions, work with department leadership to support actions that protect transmission system integrity, promote safety, and minimize damage to system assets.
• Collaborate with the Lead System Operator, System Operations leadership, and interconnected utilities to exchange information and maintain reliable system operations on a 24-hour basis.
• Monitor system conditions for issues affecting Bulk Electric System reliability and communicate recommendations for corrective action when abnormalities are identified.
• Support compliance with operational procedures, reliability standards, and regulatory requirements.

Basic Qualifications

• Associate degree with coursework demonstrating aptitude in mathematics, electrical theory, or a related technical field, and/or relevant work experience demonstrating foundational electrical utility knowledge; or an equivalent combination of education, training, military experience, and related experience.
• Strong electrical and mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to work all System Operations shifts in a 24/7 environment.
• Ability to obtain NERC Certification within six months of hire.
• Successful completion of the EEI System Operator/Power Dispatch (SOPD) assessment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Current NERC Certification.
• Experience in electric utility transmission and/or distribution operations.
• Strong computer skills and effective verbal and written communication abilities.
• Ability to work in a real-time operations environment and collaborate as part of a team.
• Knowledge of power substation equipment and power system fundamentals.
• Ability to interpret one-line diagrams and electrical schematics.
• Utility-related technical training, education, military experience, or relevant industry experience.

What We Offer

• Structured training and development opportunities.
• Exposure to real-time power system operations.
• Support in obtaining industry-recognized certifications.
• Opportunities for career progression within System Operations.
• A collaborative team environment focused on safety, reliability, and continuous improvement.

AES is an Equal Opportunity Employer who is committed to building strength and delivering long-term sustainability through diversity and inclusion. Respecting all backgrounds, differences and perspectives enables us to improve the lives of our people, customers, suppliers, contractors, and the communities in which we live and work. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and/or expression, race, national origin, ethnicity, age, religion, marital status, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical condition, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law. E-Verify Notice: AES will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employee's I-9 to confirm work authorization.