Power Distributors and Dispatchers
O*NET 51-8012.00 · SOC 51-8012
Power Distributor is a solid career choice. Median pay is $107k a year with +1.2% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 700 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Monitor power flow across transmission lines and substations
- →Dispatch switching orders to field crews during outages
- →Balance electrical load across the distribution grid
- →Log system changes and outage events in control records
- →Coordinate power rerouting when transmission equipment fails
Education & How to Get In
Most Power Distributor positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Power Distributor involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Power Distributor?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Power Distributor Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Power Distributors and Dispatchers is projected to grow 1.2% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·44% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·32% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Power Distributor make?
The median Power Distributor earns $107k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Power Distributor jobs?
Our model puts Power Distributor at 47 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 44% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 32% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Power Distributor a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 1.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 700 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Power Distributor?
Most Power Distributor roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Power Distributor?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Power Distributor career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
Take the assessment →No account required · Matches are paid · 7 minutes