Electric Distribution System Operator - Marshall Operations Center (Minneapolis, MN)

Are you looking for an exciting job where you can put your skills and talents to work at a company you can feel proud to be a part of? Do you want a workplace that will challenge you and offer you opportunities to learn and grow?  A  position at Xcel Energy could be just what you’re looking for.

We anticipate the need for one or more Distribution System Operator(s) to be located at the Marshall Operations Center in Minneapolis, MN. The starting rate of pay for this position is $57.60 hourly (2025 rate). The position will be posted for 10 Working Days from January 14, 2026, to January 28, 2026.

Summary

This entry-level position is responsible for real-time monitoring and the safe, reliable operation of Xcel Energy’s Electric Distribution System in SD, ND, and MN. Working alongside the SR DSO and completing all training checkoffs, the DSO will learn all aspects of the requirements for successfully operating the Distribution System. The DSO has authority to perform necessary actions to maintain the electric distribution system, including executing switch plans within its jurisdiction.

Essential Responsibilities

• Assess all outages and emergencies, develop service restoration and emergency response plans, and direct their implementation. Document restoration data and review elements of the process for improvement opportunities.

• Monitor and operate the Electric Distribution System using various technologies, including, but not limited to, ADMS, OMS, SCADA, DEMS, and other systems. This includes future upgrades and changes to technology infrastructures. Address customer concerns and resolutions, including issues related to government and community electric services.

• Review, approve, and direct system switching plans and procedures using the appropriate system(s). Prepare emergency switching requests and procedures. Perform Switching Authority duties and responsibilities for all work under their jurisdiction (NSP-Minnesota).

• Prioritize outages, emergency response requests, and non-outage service orders, and dispatch them to appropriate field personnel. Assign work to Substation Operators, Troublemen, District Reps, and others to meet workload requirements directed and managed by the relevant division(s).

• Initiate and respond courteously and efficiently to major customer telephone calls regarding outages and other service concerns. Answer fire, police, and other public authority emergency calls and respond with company resources accordingly. As required, communicate with internal management on the effects of customer outages and emergencies.

• Monitor work directions to ensure the efficient and effective operation of the distribution system, balancing the needs for service reliability and response with cost-effective practices.

• Maintain a thorough knowledge and understanding of the Electric Distribution System infrastructure, systems, and practices through appropriate training as assigned by management. Participate in any training or drills designed to enhance expertise and assist others in expanding overall performance in ensuring safe, effective, and efficient operation. Participate in and successfully complete all required training.

Required

Qualified candidates will have a High School Diploma or GED and meet all of the following criteria:

• To be considered for hire, you must successfully complete the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) System Operator/Power Dispatching (SOPD) screening test.

• Demonstrated knowledge of the electric distribution system's design, operation, maintenance, and performance.

• Two years of post-secondary training in electricity or electric distribution AND five years of experience in electric utility operations; OR completion of an Xcel or equivalent Lineman apprenticeship AND three years of Lineman/Troubleman experience; OR four years of an Engineering degree AND three years of experience in electric utility distribution. 

• Must be able to work rotating shifts, overtime, extension of shifts, and respond to emergency calls to return to work.

• Possesses excellent verbal and written communication skills and computer skills. 

• The ability to problem solve and understand contractual work rules related to dispatching appropriate employees based upon the current needs of ensuring the reliable Electric Distribution System.

Prior team-leader or supervisor experience is preferred, as is the ability to work independently and in a team environment under extreme workload pressure and in emergency conditions
 

As a leading combination electricity and natural gas energy company, Xcel Energy offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity and 1.9 million natural gas customers across eight Western and Midwestern states. At Xcel Energy, we strive to be the preferred and trusted provider of the energy our customers need. If you’re ready to be a part of something big, we invite you to join our team.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Individuals with a disability who need an accommodation to apply please contact us at recruiting@xcelenergy.com.

Bargaining

The anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $57.60 per hour

This position is eligible for the following benefits: Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement Account, Health Care Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account (HSA) (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Limited-Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA), Short-term disability (STD), Long-term disability (LTD), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Tuition reimbursement, Transit programs, Employee recognition program, Pension, 401(k) plan, Vacation, Holidays, Additional days off, Sick Time, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO)

Benefit plans are subject to change and Xcel Energy has the right to end, suspend, or amend any of its plans, at any time, in whole or in part.

In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information including but not limited to dates of school attendance and graduation.  You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Deadline to Apply: 01/28/26

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ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

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