District Operator in Training

PSEG; Hicksville (NY); On-site; USD 56,940 - 68,450; Full time

Job summary

PSEG Long Island in Hicksville, NY is hiring a District Operator in Training to learn safe, reliable operation of the electric transmission system under supervision. The role involves hands-on EMS/SCADA work, orders, problem analysis, and report preparation on rotating shifts.

During Phase A (6–16 months) and Phase B (up to 24 months) you will train across departments, qualify via exams, and may advance to District Operator First Step after the program.

Qualifications

• Four years of engineering coursework or equivalent, including electrical theory, DC/AC power equipment, physics, and mathematics.
• Two years of experience in electric operations, engineering, or related work.
• Pass written examinations on math, electric theory, and power systems; complete approved aptitude test.
• Attend NYISO training course within one to two years of starting.
• Must participate in federally mandated drug and alcohol testing.
• Maintain IBEW Local 1049 membership; be flexible for shift work.
• Demonstrate respect for diversity and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Phase A: 6–16 months of cross-department training and exams.
• Phase B: Up to 24 months in Transmission Control Center with possible relief duties.
• After 24 months, be promoted to District Operator First Step.
• Perform switching, tagging, and outage handling under supervision.
• Monitor EMS/SCADA and coordinate with field crews.
• Prepare operating reports and review clearances and system changes.
• Support on‑job training for new District Operators.

Skills

Electrical theory

DC/AC power

Mathematics

Problem solving

Team coordination

Education

Engineering coursework or equivalent

Tools

EMS/SCADA

Job description

District Operator in Training

Requisition: 82448

PSEG Company: PSEG Long Island

Salary Range: $56,940 - $68,450

Work Location: Onsite - Hicksville, NY

Union Local

IBEW 1049

Summary

Under the general supervision of the NERC certified Principal and Lead System Operator, the District Operator is responsible for the safe, reliable, and effective operation of the electric transmission system on Long Island. The District Operator in Training will assist in familiarizing with the system, learning to issue orders, analyzing system problems, preparing operating reports, and making accurate decisions quickly. The role includes operating supervisory control equipment and may involve heavier tasks under supervision. The position is a rotating shift operation on‑site in Hicksville, NY (40 hours/week, 12‑ and 8‑hour shifts). The selected candidate will undergo two separate phases of training.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Phase A: Six to sixteen months (varied periods). Training takes place in various departments, the Training Academy, and on‑shift with a Qualified District Operator. Written and oral examinations are required for acceptance to Phase B.
• Phase B: Up to twenty‑four months. After successful examination, the candidate trains in the Transmission Control Center and may relieve District Operators during vacations and absences. Periodic written and oral tests may occur throughout Phase B.
• After a twenty‑four month training period, employee will be promoted to District Operator First Step.
• In the event of a vacancy, a B‑phase trainee may be promoted to District Operator First Step before completing the full training period.
• Future opportunities available within PSEG Long Island.
• Perform switching and tagging for planned, forced, and emergency outages.
• Perform system restoration activities.
• Monitor the transmission system in real time using the EMS (SCADA) system.
• Direct multi‑station operators to respond to system alarms.
• Re‑configure the transmission system for outages.
• Review work requests and ensure clearance limits are correct.
• Review clearances for serving load effects and coordination with other outages.
• Follow clearance and control procedures; perform switching and issue permits to field crews.
• Take back clearances for work on transmission equipment.
• Coordinate switching with other affected systems.
• Review and accept system configuration changes (System Releases).
• Direct energizing of new facilities.
• Prepare operating reports and maintain operating log.
• Analyze system problems and issue orders to maintain continuity of service.
• Report abnormal conditions to the System Operator and repair organizations.
• Handle curtailment of loads or voltage reduction per emergency procedures.
• Operate supervisory control equipment.
• Perform similar or less skilled work as required.
• Support on‑job training for new District Operators in training.
• Be familiar with system and substation operations.
• Maintain thorough knowledge of company rules for electric equipment and lines.

Job Qualifications

• Four years of engineering coursework or equivalent, including formal courses in electrical theory, DC and AC power equipment, physics, and mathematics.
• Two years of experience in electric operations, engineering, or related work.
• Pass written examinations covering basic math, electric theory, and power systems, and an approved work aptitude test.
• Attend a four‑week course at the New York Independent System Operator in Albany, NY within one to two years of starting.
• Participate in federally mandated drug and alcohol testing programs.
• Maintain membership in local union 1049 of the IBEW.
• Flexibility to work multiple shifts and overtime as required.
• Demonstrate respect for diversity and value others' strengths and perspectives.

Desired

• Leadership and interpersonal skills in a team‑oriented and sometimes stressful environment.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks, prioritize work, and lead during critical system events.
• Comfortable making decisions under limited input and time constraints.
• Strong problem‑solving skills.
• Proficiency in computer applications, including Excel and Word.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Equal Opportunity Statement

PSEGLI is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non‑discrimination in employment, based on any legally protected characteristic. Protected characteristics include race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law in locations where PSEG employs individuals.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

All employees are subject to pre‑employment, testing for cause, and post‑incident/accident testing. Employees in federally regulated roles are subject to random testing, including for marijuana. Use of CBD products may result in a positive drug test for THC. Approved medical explanations for positive results are not accepted for employees in federally regulated roles.

Reasonable Accommodation

For individuals with disabilities needing assistance applying, contact 973‑430‑3845 or email [e-mail]. Accommodation requests will be kept confidential and not shared with hiring decision makers.