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Control Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Control Room Operator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$99K - $110K/yr

Primary Purpose of Position We are a looking for a Control Room Operator to join our team. This person will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of a cogeneration plant and its systems ...

New

Control Room Operator

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$99K - $110K/yr

Primary Purpose of Position We are a looking for a Control Room Operator to join our team. This person will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of a cogeneration plant and its systems ...

New

Iteris is looking for a Control Room Operator (Traffic Management Center) to play a critical, behind-the-scenes role, in ensuring safe and efficient travel across the transportation network. Working ...

Iteris is looking for a Control Room Operator (Traffic Management Center) to play a critical, behind-the-scenes role, in ensuring safe and efficient travel across the transportation network. Working ...

Iteris is looking for a Control Room Operator (Traffic Management Center) to play a critical, behind-the-scenes role, in ensuring safe and efficient travel across the transportation network. Working ...

Iteris is looking for a Control Room Operator (Traffic Management Center) to play a critical, behind-the-scenes role, in ensuring safe and efficient travel across the transportation network. Working ...

Iteris is looking for a Control Room Operator (Traffic Management Center) to play a critical, behind-the-scenes role, in ensuring safe and efficient travel across the transportation network. Working ...

Iteris is looking for a Control Room Operator (Traffic Management Center) to play a critical, behind-the-scenes role, in ensuring safe and efficient travel across the transportation network. Working ...

The Temporary Quality Operator position is responsible for performing a variety of basic ... Monitors and verifies quality in accordance with statistical process control. Applies method ...

... Temporary Quality Operator position is responsible for performing a variety of basic ... Monitors and verifies quality in accordance with statistical process control. Applies method ...

The Temporary Quality Operator position is responsible for performing a variety of basic ... Monitors and verifies quality in accordance with statistical process control. Applies method ...

Control Booth Operator

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$50K - $88K/yr

Proficiency and experience operating a secure facility control and monitoring system. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Job is generally sedentary in nature; however, visual acuity is required to read data on ...

Be Seen First

Traffic Operations Center Computer Operator Metaforá Consulting, Inc. is seeking an entry-level, full-time Control Room Traffic Monitoring Operator ( TOC Operator ) for the Colonial Heights area ...

Training provided

$20.35 - $26.81/hr

Traffic Maintenance Operator II (may underfill) Bargaining Unit: AFSCME Operates specialized ... Installs, repairs, and maintains various traffic control devices and parking meters. May in a lead ...

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Control Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$24

$38

How much do control operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for control operator in Virginia is $24.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Control Operators, and how can they be effectively managed?

Control Operators often work in fast-paced environments where quick decision-making and attention to detail are critical. Common challenges include managing multiple systems simultaneously, responding to alarms or unexpected events, and maintaining clear communication with team members across shifts. Effective management of these challenges involves thorough training, strong situational awareness, and adherence to established protocols. Regular team briefings and ongoing skills development also help ensure operational safety and efficiency.

What do control operators do?

Control operators are responsible for managing and monitoring the operation of systems or equipment, ensuring processes run smoothly and safely. They often work with control panels, automation tools, and communication systems to respond to alarms, adjust settings, and maintain operational efficiency. This role typically requires technical skills, attention to detail, and sometimes certification or training in specific control systems.

How do you become a control operator?

To become a control operator, individuals typically need to obtain an amateur radio license by passing a written exam that tests knowledge of radio regulations, operating procedures, and technical concepts. Some positions may require relevant experience, technical skills, or certifications, and operators often need to be at least 18 years old and adhere to specific regulatory requirements set by the governing authority.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Control Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Control Operator, you need a solid understanding of process control systems, mechanical or electrical troubleshooting, and generally a relevant technical diploma or degree. Familiarity with SCADA systems, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and safety protocols is typically required, along with any necessary industry certifications. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help operators respond quickly and accurately to system changes or emergencies. These skills are crucial for maintaining safe, efficient, and reliable operations in industrial or utility environments.

What jobs make $500,000 a year?

Control operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized surgeons, or successful entrepreneurs. In some industries like finance, technology, or executive management, top-tier professionals can reach or exceed this income level, often requiring advanced skills, extensive experience, and high responsibility. Salary levels vary widely based on industry, experience, and location, but control operator roles generally have lower compensation at this level.

How much do control room operators get paid?

Control room operators typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of the environment, required certifications, and shift schedules.

What are Control Operators?

Control Operators are professionals responsible for monitoring and managing the operations of complex systems, such as machinery, power plants, or manufacturing processes. They ensure that systems run efficiently and safely by observing instruments, making necessary adjustments, and responding to alarms or system irregularities. Control Operators play a crucial role in maintaining optimal performance and preventing malfunctions by following established procedures and safety protocols. Their work often involves collaboration with other technical staff to troubleshoot and resolve issues quickly.

What is the difference between Control Operator vs Control Room Operator?

AspectControl OperatorControl Room Operator
CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications or training in control systemsSimilar certifications, often with additional safety or industry-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, power stations, manufacturing facilitiesControl rooms within industrial or utility facilities
Industry UsageCommon in energy, manufacturing, and utilitiesPrimarily in power generation, oil & gas, and manufacturing sectors
Job FocusMonitoring and adjusting control systemsOverseeing entire control room operations and coordination

Both Control Operators and Control Room Operators work in industrial environments monitoring control systems. Control Operators focus on operating specific control systems, while Control Room Operators oversee the entire control room operations, often managing multiple systems and coordinating team efforts.

Infographic showing various Control Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,805 per year, or $24.4 per hour.
Control Room Operator

Control Room Operator

Constellation Energy

Arlington, VA • On-site

$99K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Constellation Energy rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 100 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 77 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Who We Are

As the largest private-sector power producer in the world and the nation's largest producer of clean and reliable energy, Constellation is focused on our purpose: lighting the way to a brilliant tomorrow for all. We have been the leader in clean energy production for more than a decade, and we are cultivating a workplace where our employees can grow, thrive, and contribute. Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural gas, geothermal, hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 million homes.
Our culture and employee experience make it clear: We are powered by passion and purpose. Together, we're creating healthier communities and a cleaner planet, and our people are the driving force behind our success. At Constellation, you can build a fulfilling career with opportunities to learn, grow and make an impact. By doing our best work and meeting new challenges, we can accomplish great things. Join us in meeting the country's energy needs today and tomorrow.


Total Rewards

Constellation offers an extensive selection of benefits and rewards to help our employees thrive professionally and personally. We provide competitive compensation and a wide-range of benefits that support both employees and their families, helping them prepare for the future. In addition to highly competitive salaries, eligible employees are offered a bonus program, 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase program comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits, including robust wellbeing programs disability and life insurance benefits paid time off for vacation, holidays, and sick days and much more.

Expected salary range of $99,000 to $110,000, varies based on experience, along with comprehensive benefits package that includes bonus and 401(k).

Primary Purpose of Position

We are a looking for a Control Room Operator to join our team. This person will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of a cogeneration plant and its systems during their shift. This position is located in Washington, DC. The Combined Heat & Power (CHP) Facility consists of three Solar Mercury 50 combustion turbines, three Rentech Heat Recovery Steam Generators, one Cleaver-Brooks auxiliary boiler, and associated auxiliary equipment (compressors, pumps, etc.)


Primary Duties and Accountabilities

  • Monitor, record, and trend readings from the plant control system and steam generating equipment.
  • Monitor gas turbine control panels to ensure proper operation of turbine equipment.
  • Perform all required plant water chemistry analysis, adjust as necessary to maintain chemistry control within the plant specified limits.
  • Operate the plant in a safe and efficient manner, following all procedures, health and safety guidelines, and current operating practices.
  • Monitor instrumentation readings for variances from prescribed standards, adjusting as necessary to maintain proper equipment operation, and record abnormalities in the control room log.
  • Maintain required records including the control room logbook and lockout/tagout log.
  • Inspect equipment at regular intervals to identify malfunctions, repair needs, or unsafe conditions, and report issues beyond the troubleshooting or repair capabilities of shift personnel to management.
  • Support safety by correcting hazards such as leaks, slip hazards, or deficiencies, and by monitoring maintenance activities to ensure proper plant operation.
  • Perform minor maintenance, outage repairs, and equipment testing, and assist with cleanliness of plant spaces and common areas.
  • Train and support new employees as required.
  • Additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

  • High school Diploma or GED
  • DC Stationary Engineer's License (3rd Class)
  • 5 years of power plant control room operations experience or equivalent education and experience
  • Strong mechanical aptitude, basic steam plant and combustion turbine knowledge
  • Ability to read and interpret safety rules, data, operating instructions, maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals in English
  • Proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing English
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals
  • Demonstrated ability to follow written, oral, or diagram-based instructions using sound judgment and practical understanding
  • Demonstrated judgment and decision-making skills within defined procedures and practices, including use of calculations, deductive reasoning, and consultation with a supervisor

Preferred Qualifications

DC Stationary Engineer's License (1st Class)


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