Electric System Operator

American Electric Power • Gahanna, OH

1d • $63,496 - $109,543

About The Position

The Electric System Operator (Distribution Dispatcher) is responsible for coordinating, regulating, and controlling the real‑time operation of the electric distribution system to ensure reliable, safe, and efficient service to customers. This role monitors system conditions, executes switching orders, responds to outages and emergencies, and communicates with field crews, engineers, and other utility personnel. As a member of our Distribution Control Center team, you’ll be the nerve center of the distribution grid—monitoring SCADA and grid telemetry in real time, making rapid decisions to isolate faults, restore service, and reconfigure feeders to keep power flowing. You’ll coordinate crews and contractors, issue safe switching orders, manage outage priorities during storms and emergencies, and communicate clear status updates to operations leadership and stakeholders. This fast-paced role combines technical problem solving, decisive action, and teamwork—where every shift delivers visible impact on reliability, safety, and customer satisfaction—offering hands-on experience with advanced grid controls and a clear path for career growth in utility operations.

Requirements

• Dist. Dispatcher Assoc.: Education requirements: Bachelor’s degree in any field, OR associate degree in electrical or electronic technology, OR High School Diploma with 2 years of experience with technical customer support and service, including successful multi-tasking and handling of multiple programs/screens.
• Dist. Dispatcher: Education requirements are listed below: Bachelor’s degree in any field, OR associate’s degree in electrical or electronic technology, OR High School Diploma with 2 years of experience with technical customer support and service, including successful multi-tasking and handling of multiple programs/screens in addition to experience listed below. Work Experience requirement listed below: Minimum 2 years of experience as a Distribution Dispatcher Assoc. Successfully complete training and pass the examination for a Distribution Dispatcher
• Dist. Dispatcher Sr.: Education requirements are listed below: Bachelor’s degree in any field, OR associate’s degree in electrical or electronic technology, OR High School Diploma with 2 years of experience with technical customer support and service, including successful multi-tasking and handling of multiple programs/screens in addition to experience listed below. Work Experience requirement listed below: Minimum 2 years of experience as a Distribution Dispatcher. Successfully complete training and pass the examination for a Distribution Dispatcher Sr.
• Rotating shift work required.
• Successful completion of the System Operator/Power Dispatching Selection System (SOPD) test is required for this position.
• Must maintain a high availability for call-out response.
• Due to call-out responsibility, applicants must live within or be willing to relocate to within 45 minutes of the reporting location.
• Must satisfactorily complete required training and testing to progress to the next level within the Distribution Dispatcher Associate classification within 2 years and to the Distribution Dispatcher classification within 4 years or vacate the position.
• Must be able to work under pressure during periods of critical system conditions and deal with diverse situations simultaneously.
• Successful candidate must live or be willing to relocate within 45 mins of the AEPOH Gahanna building (700 Morrison Road Gahanna, Ohio 43230)

Responsibilities

• Promote and enforce the Company's Safety and Health programs.
• Be knowledgeable and adhere to written company and department policy and procedures.
• Demonstrate the highest standards of ethical behavior and support the Company's Corporate Compliance Policy.
• Effectively operate company communication equipment.
• Track crew locations and ongoing work on the distribution system.
• Dispatch service personnel to respond to outage and emergency situations.
• Authorize the energizing and restoration of distribution facilities.
• Maintain accurate outage records.
• Maintain accurate records of abnormal and defective equipment for distribution facilities.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level