Electric System Operator

American Electric Power; Tulsa (OK); On-site; USD 68,000 - 96,000; Full time

Job summary

American Electric Power in Tulsa, OK is seeking an Electric System Operator to dispatch outages, analyze data, and document restoration processes. You will use radio/phone and written communications to coordinate actions, update mapping systems, and manage switching procedures in a fast‑paced, safety‑conscious environment.

The role requires prior dispatch experience, successful SOPD testing, and a strong safety record.

Qualifications

• Experience as Electric System Operator or Distribution Dispatcher Sr., as defined in AEP's program.
• Successful completion of the SOPD test.
• Good safety record and knowledge of electrical safety procedures.

Responsibilities

• Prioritize routine and emergency work to meet customer needs.
• Communicate verbal instructions clearly via radio/phone and written messages.
• Update and maintain paper or electronic mapping systems.
• Operate SCADA during routine and emergency switching procedures.
• Write switching orders for routine and emergency work at substations or lines.
• Provide training and leadership to dispatchers in lower grades.
• Interface with transmission operations and participate in outage recovery.
• Be available for overtime and participate in safety meetings.

Skills

Electric System Operator

Distribution Dispatcher Sr.

SOPD test

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Job description

Electric System Operator### Electric System OperatorApply: Tulsa, OK: Full time: Posted Today: End Date: November 5, 2026 (9 days left to apply): R20332**Job Posting End Date**11-05-2026Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.**Job Summary**\\*\\*This is a single position posted at multiple levels. The description below is based on Electrical System Operator level. Additional skills and experience required for other levels. Successful candidate will be offered the level commensurate with skills and experience. Responsible to safely dispatch customer outages to multiple field personnel, including analyzing outage data and accurately documenting the restoration process.**Job Description** **What You’ll Do:*** Prioritize routine and emergency work to meet the needs of our internal and external customers.* Clearly and precisely communicate verbal instructions using radio and telephone systems, as well as provide clear written communications through various applications.* Update and maintain paper or electronic mapping systems.* Must be able to work under pressure during periods of critical system conditions.* Provide training and leadership to dispatchers in lower grade levels.* Responsible for producing and issuing switching orders for routine and emergency work involving distribution substations or lines.* Operate Scada during routine and emergency switching procedures.* Responsible to write operational procedures for switching substation and distribution feeders.* Interface with transmission operations.* Provide a leadership role in substation and distribution feeder outage recovery.* Assume other duties and responsibilities as assigned.* Be able to quickly respond for emergency overtime.* Planned, holdover and call out overtime is expected frequently.* A high acceptance rate for overtime is required.* Participate and assist in planning team safety meetings.* Foster and maintain a positive work culture. **What We're Looking For:****Education requirements are listed below:*** Previous experience as an Electric System Operator or Distribution Dispatcher Sr. as defined in AEP's Distribution Dispatch Development Program.* Successful completion of the System Operations/Power Dispatch (SOPD) test.Additional information related to the test batteries and a review of Employment Testing Information and Tips may be helpful. A link to this material may be found at aep.com/testprep.* Good safety record and knowledge of electrical safety procedures and AEP's Accident Prevention Manual.* A work history that demonstrates dependability and responsiveness to business needs.* An excellent attendance record. Satisfactory hearing and the ability to identify line colors.* Demonstrated ability to work well with others and be a team player. **OTHER REQUIREMENTS:** * Effectively manage multiple tasks in a high stress environment for extended periods of time.* Must have computer literacy skills and the ability to learn new computer programs.* An attitude and desire to listen to and satisfy internal and external customers.* Shift work of days, evenings, and midnights, including on weekends and holidays.* Occasional overnight travel may be required for the purpose of outage restoration, interaction with the districts, or for training needs.* The successful candidate may be subject to a criminal history background check. **What You’ll Get:**In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.**Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do!**At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you! **Compensation Data****Compensation Grade:**U070-841**Compensation Range:**$59.44 - $59.44The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.