System Operator Trainee
Begin a Career Supporting the Reliability of Georgia's Electric Grid
Georgia System Operations Corporation (GSOC) is seeking a System Operator Trainee to prepare for a career supporting the 24x7 real-time operation of Georgia's member-owned transmission and generation systems.
This trainee role is designed for individuals who are ready to build the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to become a NERC Certified System Operator. Under the supervision of GSOC's Power Delivery Training group and in partnership with certified Transmission and Generation System Operators, you will participate in a structured development program that includes classroom learning, online training, field exposure, and control center experience.
The primary goal of the trainee program is to prepare you to successfully obtain NERC System Operator Certification and progress into advanced training that supports Generation, Transmission, or both as part of the GSOC System Operator family of jobs.
This opportunity is ideal for a motivated technical learner who is interested in electric utility operations, enjoys problem-solving, communicates effectively, and wants to contribute to safe, reliable service for GSOC's members and communities across Georgia.
What You'll Do
As a System Operator Trainee, you will participate in a structured training program designed to prepare you for NERC certification and future progression into real-time system operations.
You will:
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Develop and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to obtain NERC System Operator Certification.
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Build a strong understanding of the electric utility business and GSOC's member-owned operating model.
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Work directly with the Power Delivery Training group and certified Transmission and Generation System Operators.
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Participate in classroom training, online learning, control center exposure, and field visits to substations and generating plants.
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Learn the operational requirements associated with Transmission System Operator and Generation System Operator responsibilities.
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Develop foundational knowledge of 24x7 transmission and generation system operations, including switching orders, clearances, outage restoration support, alarms, power scheduling, load forecasting, and resource dispatch.
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Prepare for advanced training that may support Generation, Transmission, or both within the GSOC System Operator family of jobs.
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Complete assigned training activities and other duties as assigned.
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This trainee role does not have independent operating authority. The position is focused on learning, certification preparation, and readiness for future progression into certified system operations roles.
What You Bring
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High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
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One to three years of work experience in a related technical field is preferred, such as distribution operations, substation construction, relay maintenance, substation equipment testing, or generation plant operations.
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One to three years of technical training in a related field may also be considered.
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Ability to use Microsoft Office products, including Outlook, Word, and Excel; PowerPoint experience is a plus.
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Sound decision-making skills under stressful conditions.
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Effective oral and written communication skills.
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Interest in learning electric utility operations, system reliability, and control center responsibilities.
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Ability to obtain and maintain Bulk Electric System Cyber Authorized Status as defined by GSOC policy and applicable NERC Reliability Standards.
Preferred Qualifications
Technical Foundation
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Related experience or training in distribution operations, substation construction, relay maintenance, substation equipment testing, or generation plant operations.
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Exposure to AC/DC theory is preferred but can be developed through training.
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Ability to read one-line diagrams is preferred but can be developed through training.
Certifications
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Must obtain a NERC System Operator Certification within six months after hire. Management may review and extend the timeframe on a case-by-case basis if needed.
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Accepted NERC System Operator Certifications include Reliability Coordinator Operator (RC), Balancing, Interchange, and Transmission (BT/BIT), and Transmission Operator (TO).
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Obtaining NERC System Operator Certification is required for successful completion of the trainee program.
Training & Progression
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The trainee program includes in-person instruction, online training, field exposure, and control center learning experiences.
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A NERC certification test will be coordinated at least by month four of the training process. Subsequent tests, if required, will be scheduled at management's discretion.
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After completing the trainee program and obtaining NERC certification, the trainee will begin an initial training program designed to prepare for more advanced training supporting Generation, Transmission, or both.
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Successful completion of the trainee role prepares the trainee to transition into progressive levels within the GSOC System Operator family of jobs.
Schedule & Work Environment
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Some shift work will be assigned during the trainee period to build understanding of 24x7 operations for transmission and balancing obligations.
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Rotating shifts, including days, nights, holidays, and other coverage needs, may be assigned during the training period and will be required after successful completion of the program.
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The role requires a commitment to learning in both classroom and operational environments.
Advantages of Working at GSOC
Working at GSOC means more than just a job-it's an opportunity to contribute to work that truly matters.
Your work supports the safe, reliable operation of Georgia's electric power system-an essential service that communities and businesses depend on every day.
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Career Path into Critical Operations
Develop toward a certified system operations career through structured training, hands-on exposure, and progression into roles that support real-time grid reliability.
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Strong Values and Professional Standards
Work in an environment grounded in accountability, collaboration, integrity, and continuous improvement where reliability, compliance, and operational excellence are core priorities.
Work Environment & Benefits
GSOC offers a professional, collaborative work environment with competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and a commitment to creating a respectful and inclusive workplace.
Benefits include, but are not limited to: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) Match, Parental Leave, Educational Assistance, Annual Performance Bonus, Paid Time Off, and Volunteer Time Off.
Why Join GSOC
At GSOC, you can begin building a career that directly supports the reliability of Georgia's electric system and the member cooperatives that serve communities across the state.
You'll learn from experienced operations and training professionals in a mission-driven environment focused on safety, reliability, compliance, and continuous improvement.
Apply Today
If you're ready to build the foundation for a career in system operations and work toward NERC certification, we encourage you to apply.
