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Control Panel Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Control Panel Builder

Torrance, CA

$19.75 - $25.25/hr

We are a team of builders, engineers, and operators who believe nuclear energy should be fast to ... The Role The Control Panel Builder is responsible for assembling, wiring, and finishing industrial ...

Control Panel Assembler / Electrical Panel Builder / Electrical Assembler 1st Shift | Monday ... Work Environment Large manufacturing facility operating under ISO 9001:2015 standards. Job Type ...

Panel Operator

Burlington, WA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Summary As a Panel Operator, you are at the center of feed production, using advanced control systems to ensure every batch is formulated and delivered with precision. You monitor and program ...

Panel Operator

Burlington, WA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Summary As a Panel Operator, you are at the center of feed production, using advanced control systems to ensure every batch is formulated and delivered with precision. You monitor and program ...

Panel Operator

Burlington, WA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Summary As a Panel Operator, you are at the center of feed production, using advanced control systems to ensure every batch is formulated and delivered with precision. You monitor and program ...

Panel Control Technician

Windsor, CT · On-site

$19 - $24.25/hr

We are hiring a Control Panel Technician for our Windsor, CT location. This is an onsite position ... operators, pilot lights, pushbuttons, selector *itches, relays, timers, contactors, starters ...

Panel Control Technician

Windsor, CT

$19 - $24.25/hr

Assemble end wire electrical control panels Including operators, pilot lights, pushbuttons, selector *itches, relays, timers, contactors, starters, alternators, controllers, recorders, transmitters ...

Panel Control Technician

Windsor, CT

$19 - $24.25/hr

We are hiring a Control Panel Technician for our Windsor, CT location. This is an onsite position ... operators, pilot lights, pushbuttons, selector *itches, relays, timers, contactors, starters ...

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Control Panel Operator information

See salary details

$11

$24

$38

How much do control panel operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for control panel operator in the United States is $24.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a control panel operator?

Control Panel Operators are professionals responsible for monitoring and controlling machinery and equipment through control panels in various industries, such as manufacturing, power generation, and processing plants. They ensure that systems run smoothly by observing instrument readings, making necessary adjustments, and responding to alarms or malfunctions. Their role is critical in maintaining operational efficiency, safety, and compliance with regulations. Control Panel Operators often require specialized training and must have a solid understanding of the systems they oversee.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a control panel operator?

To thrive as a Control Panel Operator, you need a solid understanding of process control systems, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and industry-specific safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for monitoring operations and responding to issues. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of industrial processes, minimizing downtime and maintaining quality standards.

What are the typical challenges a control panel operator faces during shift changes, and how are they managed?

Control Panel Operators often encounter challenges during shift changes, such as ensuring accurate handover of system status and ongoing issues. Miscommunication can lead to operational errors or missed alarms. To manage this, operators typically follow structured handover protocols, use detailed logbooks, and participate in briefings with incoming team members. Maintaining clear communication and thorough documentation is essential to ensure continuity and safe operations.

What is the difference between Control Panel Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectControl Panel OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, sometimes certificationsHigh school diploma, technical training or certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentControl rooms, industrial plants, power stationsFactories, manufacturing floors, production lines
Job FocusMonitoring and controlling equipment via control panelsOperating machinery directly to produce goods

Control Panel Operators primarily monitor and control equipment through control panels in industrial settings, focusing on system stability. Machine Operators directly handle machinery to manufacture products. While both roles require safety training and technical knowledge, Control Panel Operators emphasize system oversight, whereas Machine Operators focus on physical operation of equipment.

More about Control Panel Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Control Panel Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Control Panel Operator job openings:

What states have the most Control Panel Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Control Panel Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Control Panel Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,245 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

$19.75 - $25.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

About Valar Atomics

At Valar Atomics, we're redefining what's possible in energy. Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable-unlocking abundant energy for industry, hydrogen, and next-generation manufacturing. We are a team of builders, engineers, and operators who believe nuclear energy should be fast to deploy, factory-made, and built for the real world. Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel fabrication can power the future. Joining Valar Atomics means becoming part of a company where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level.

The Team 

As part of the Engineering organization, Instrumentations & Controls designs the systems that monitor, automate, and protect Valar's facilities and reactor technologies. The team develops reliable control architectures that enable safe and efficient operations. 

The Role 

The Control Panel Builder is responsible for assembling, wiring, and finishing industrial control panels according to electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and applicable codes and standards. This role requires attention to detail, adherence to safety and quality standards, and the ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities 

  • Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and panel layout 
    drawings
  • Use hand tools, power tools, crimpers, torque tools, label printers/engravers, and 
    multimeters safely and properly
  • Mechanically assemble control panel enclosures, backplates, DIN rail 
    components, wire duct, and other various devices
  • Wire control panels including:
    • Power distribution (single-phase & three-phase)
    • Control circuits
    • PLC I/O wiring
    • VFDs, motor starters, relays, contactors, terminal blocks, and power supplies
    • Cut, strip, crimp, label, and route wires per drawing and workmanship standards
    • Apply wire labels, terminal labels, and device tags per project documentation
    • Verify parts and materials against the BOM, drawings, and project documentation 
  • Identify and report incorrect, damaged, missing, or substitute components
  • Torque electrical terminations to specified values and document as required
  • Perform continuity checks and basic electrical verification prior to testing
  • Maintain cleanliness, organization, and workmanship standards inside enclosures
  • Build panels in accordance with applicable UL 508A, NEC, project specifications, 
    and company quality procedures
  • Communicate issues, discrepancies, or missing information to engineering or 
    supervision
  • Support panel testing and troubleshooting as needed
  • Support rework, modifications, and engineering change implementation as needed
  • Comply with safety policies, PPE requirements, and LOTO procedures 

Basic Qualifications  

  • 2+ years of experience building, wiring, or assembling industrial control panels; 3+ 
    years preferred
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and panel 
    layout drawings
  • Experience cutting, stripping, crimping, labeling, routing, and terminating wires
  • Experience with DIN rail components, terminal blocks, relays, contactors, power 
    supplies, circuit breakers, and VFDs
  • Proficient with hand tools and shop tools, including wire strippers, crimpers, torque 
    tools, drills, label printers/engravers, and multimeters
  • Ability to perform basic continuity checks and point-to-point wiring verification
  • Ability to follow BOMs, drawings, work instructions, and quality checklists
  • Knowledge of basic electrical safety practices, PPE requirements, and LOTO 
    procedures
  • Strong attention to detail, cleanliness, organization, and workmanship quality
  • Ability to communicate missing parts, drawing discrepancies, or build issues to 
    engineering or supervision
  • Ability to work independently or as part of a team in a shop/lab environment
  • Ability to lift to 50 lbs. and work on the shop floor for extended periods 

Preferred Skills and Experience  

  • Familiarity with UL 508A requirements, NEC, and industrial control panel standards
  • Experience with PLC systems such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar platforms
  • Experience with PLC I/O wiring, analog/digital signals, instrumentation, or 4-20 mA 
    loops
  • Panel testing, troubleshooting, or quality inspection experience
  • Experience supporting redlines, as-built markups, or engineering change 
    implementation
  • Forklift, scissor lift, or aerial lift certification
  • Field service experience
  • Electrical certification, electrician training, trade school, or formal technical 
    training 

What We Offer  

  • Competitive base salary 
  • Equity ownership in a rapidly growing advanced energy company 
  • Comprehensive medical benefits 
  • Free daily lunch and dinner provided onsite 
  • Generous PPE stipend
  • High-impact startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy 
  • Opportunities for rapid career growth and internal advancement 
  • Direct collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, and industry leaders 
  • The opportunity to help build and scale transformative energy technology from the ground up

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Valar Atomics is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment and will provide reasonable accommodation as required by law.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder).