Associate System Operator

AES Corporation; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

AES Corporation is seeking an Associate System Operator to help run the bulk electric system safely and reliably. The role covers generation through distribution substations, ensuring compliance with NERC and related standards while coordinating with field personnel across shifts.

The position emphasizes electrical/mechanical aptitude, training in system operations, and the ability to pass NERC certification within six months. Join a team focused on stability and efficiency in energy delivery.

Qualifications

• Associates degree showing an aptitude for math and electrical theory, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• High degree of electrical and mechanical aptitude.
• Available for all System Operations shifts (24-7).
• Ability to pass NERC Certification exam within 6 months.

Responsibilities

• Assist in training for direct operation of the bulk electric system.
• Support field switching operations and substation personnel.
• Act in emergencies to protect transmission system integrity and minimize damage.
• Communicate with Lead System Operator and other teams to maintain reliable operations.
• Monitor system conditions and recommend corrective actions.

Skills

Electrical theory

Mathematical aptitude

Team collaboration

Strong communication

Education

Associates degree in electrical theory/math

Tools

SCADA systems

Job description

Are you ready to be part of a companythat'snot just talking about the future, but actively shaping it? Join The AES Corporation, the largest US-based global power company witha teamof 8,300employees across 12 countries.

AES has been ranked #1 byBloombergNEF in renewable energy sales to corporations in the US and Americas for five consecutive years, providing electricityfor millions of peopleworldwide.

We are proud to foster a strong workplace culture, earning prominent positions in Great Place to Work rankings across the markets where weoperate. 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 honoringglobal leadership in advancing the electric power industry. Ifyou'reready to be part of a companythat'snot just adapting to change, but driving it, AES is the place for you.We'renot just building a more sustainable future,we'repowering it.

Under the general supervision of the Lead System Operator and Team Leader of System Operations, the Associate System Operator acting under the direction of the Lead System Operator is responsible for the safe, stable, reliable, economical and environmentally correct operation of the Bulk Electric System.

This responsibility extends from the generating station substations through the distribution substations. The Associate System Operator is responsible for complying with NERC, FERC, RFC, IURC and MISO requirements and directing field personnel through switching operations involving the Bulk Electric System.

Primary Responsibilities

• Assists in a training capacity for the direct operation of the bulk electric system.

• Assists the field switching operations performed by authorized personnel including Substation Inspectors/Switchmen, Substation Mechanics, Electricians, line Techs, Relay/SCADA Specialists, Trouble Techs and any other classification that may be required to operate equipment on the bulk electric system.

• During emergency operating conditions, the Associate System Operator works with department management to take the necessary actions to protect the transmission system integrity, prevent loss of life and minimize damage to transmission system components.

• Participates in conferring with the Lead System Operator and other System Operations management personnel regarding matters affecting the operation of the bulk electric system and with the operation personnel of the interconnected utilities on a twenty‑four hour basis, exchanging information necessary to maintain good interconnected procedures.

• Monitors system conditions for issues affecting bulk electric system reliability and recommends immediate corrective actions when abnormalities are detected to department management.

Basic Requirements

• Associates degree showing an aptitude for math and electrical theory, to include previous work experience demonstrating basic electrical utility knowledge, or equivalent combination of education and/or experience related to the discipline.

• High degree of electrical and mechanical aptitude.

• Available for all System Operations shifts (24-7).

• Ability to pass NERC Certification exam within 6 months.

Preferred Skills

• Current NERC Certification

• Electric Utility experience in transmission and/or distribution operations.

• Computer proficiency and effective verbal and written communication skills are requirements.

• Ability to work in a real‑time operations environment on all shifts and as a team member.

• Understanding of power substation equipment, power system electrical fundamentals, and the ability to interpret substation one‑line diagrams and electrical schematics.

• Successfully pass pre‑screening EEI exam System Operator/Power Dispatch (SOPD) preferred.

• Electric utility job related experience or training

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.