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Control Room Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Control Room Operator

Woodland, CA · On-site

$47.67 - $58.65/hr

Operating and maintenance experience with various analytical and test equipment *Demonstrated knowledge, skill and prior hands-on operational experience relating to instrumentation and control ...

Control Room Operator

Woodland, CA · On-site

$47.67 - $58.65/hr

Operating and maintenance experience with various analytical and test equipment *Demonstrated knowledge, skill and prior hands-on operational experience relating to instrumentation and control ...

Operating and maintenance experience with various analytical and test equipment *Demonstrated knowledge, skill and prior hands-on operational experience relating to instrumentation and control ...

If you are seeking for a rock solid job opportunity with cross training opportunities, room for ... Responsible for quality of work and the safe operation of all tools/equipment under his/her control

Responsible for quality of work and the safe operation of all tools/equipment under his/her control * Responsible for good housekeeping and safety inspection of work area * May be required to perform ...

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Control Room Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$22

$42

How much do control room operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for control room operator in California is $22.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become a control room operator?

To become a control room operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant technical training or experience in operating control systems. Many employers prefer candidates with knowledge of industry-specific tools, safety procedures, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA or industry-specific licenses. On-the-job training is common, and strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to monitor multiple systems are essential.

What does a Control Room Operator do?

A Control Room Operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling complex systems and equipment from a central location, often in industries such as power generation, manufacturing, or transportation. They oversee operations, respond to alarms or abnormalities, and ensure that processes run safely and efficiently. Their duties include tracking data, adjusting controls, communicating with field staff, and following safety protocols to prevent accidents or downtime. Control Room Operators play a critical role in maintaining the smooth operation of vital infrastructure.

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

Control Room Operators often face challenges such as monitoring multiple systems simultaneously, responding quickly to alarms, and managing stressful situations during emergencies. Staying organized, maintaining clear communication with team members, and following established protocols are key to managing these challenges effectively. Regular training and familiarization with control systems also help operators remain confident and prepared for unexpected incidents.

What qualifications do you need to be a control room operator?

Control room operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant technical training or certifications such as a control room operations certificate. Prior experience in monitoring, troubleshooting, and operating control systems, as well as strong communication and problem-solving skills, are also important qualifications.

What is the work of control room operator?

A control room operator monitors and manages equipment, systems, or processes in a facility such as a power plant, manufacturing plant, or transportation hub. They use control panels, computer systems, and communication tools to ensure operations run smoothly, safely, and efficiently, often working in shifts and following safety protocols. The role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and sometimes certifications depending on the industry.

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

To thrive as a Control Room Operator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and typically a background in engineering, technology, or a related technical field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, Distributed Control Systems (DCS), and relevant safety certifications is often required. Quick decision-making, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of industrial processes and emergency response.

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

AspectControl Room OperatorPlant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma, technical training, and sometimes certifications in control systemsRequires a high school diploma, technical training, and certifications related to plant equipment
Work EnvironmentOperates within a control room monitoring systems and equipmentWorks on-site at the plant, operating and maintaining machinery
Industry UsageCommon in energy, manufacturing, and utilities sectorsFound in power plants, manufacturing facilities, and processing plants

Control Room Operators primarily monitor and control systems from a centralized location, focusing on system stability and safety. Plant Operators work directly on equipment, performing maintenance and operational tasks. Both roles require technical knowledge and safety awareness, but their daily activities and work environments differ.

What Is a Control Room Operator?

A control room operator works in the control room at an industrial facility, usually a power plant. The primary job responsibilities are monitoring the operation of equipment, machines, and other systems in the plant. Additional duties include managing alarms or alerts, monitoring production rates, and logging system statuses. The job requires keen attention to detail. The job is often performed in a setting where constant vigilance is critical to prevent falls, shocks, and other workplace injuries. Qualifications include an understanding of mechanics and strong organizational skills.

How much do control room operators get paid?

Control room operators typically earn an average salary ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Salaries can be higher with specialized skills, certifications, or in high-demand sectors such as energy, manufacturing, or transportation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Control Room Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Control Room Operator jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Control Room Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Control Room Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Control Room Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Control Room Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Control Room Operator jobs in CA? For Control Room Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Control Room Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,524 per year, or $22.8 per hour.
Control Room Operator

Control Room Operator

DTE Energy

Woodland, CA • On-site

$47.67 - $58.65/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


DTE Energy rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 52 rated energy and utility


Job description

DTE is one of the nation's largest diversified energy companies. Our electric and gas companies have fueled our customer's homes and Michigan's progress for more than a century. And as Michigan's largest source of renewable energy, we're creating a cleaner, healthier environment to power our future. We're also serving communities beyond Michigan, where our affiliated businesses offer renewable energy, emission control technologies, and energy services to industries in 19 states. But we're more than a leading energy company... and working at DTE is more than just a job. At DTE, we take great care of each other and our customers, and we use our energy to be a force for growth and prosperity in our communities. When you join us, you'll be part of a team that welcomes, recognizes, and celebrates differences, and values everyone's health, safety, and wellbeing. Are you ready to make that kind of difference? Bring your energy to DTE. Together, we can achieve great things. The pay range for this position is $47.67 - $58.65.
Job Summary
Location: Woodland, CA
The person holding this position is responsible during his/her shift for all personnel and equipment involved in the safe and efficient production of steam and electricity. He or she leads in the coordination, monitoring and controlling all on-shift operations. As the senior individual on duty, he or she has the responsibility and authority to take whatever action may be necessary to protect people, environment, and equipment.
Key Accountabilities
  • Ensures that all site safety and environmental requirements and procedures are followed and takes corrective actions as necessary
  • Assists the Operations Supervisor to plan, direct and perform housekeeping duties. Ensures housekeeping standards are maintained or initiates corrective action, as required
  • Oversees all station operations, including startup, shutdown, inspection, routine chemical testing, all switching and tagging, equipment troubleshooting, writes, reviews, and revises operating and related procedures
  • Assists the Operations Supervisor in maintaining administrative documents, generating reports and initiates action to replenish consumables
  • Provides feedback to the Operations Supervisor regarding the technical and administrative conduct of shift operations
  • Assists in the development and implementation of the planned daily operations schedule
  • Assists in the orientation, training, development of O&M Technicians to assure high work quality
  • Assists the Operation Supervisor in the planning of routine preventive and predictive maintenance on all systems and equipment. Supports corrective maintenance efforts on selected equipment
  • Communicates with other company personnel on-site and at other locations. Represents the company in dealing with the public, steam and power customers, vendors, contractors, regulators, and other non-company personnel
  • Maximizes plant efficiency and shareholder value without compromising personnel and equipment safety, environmental compliance, or the long-term commercial viability of the facility
  • Available for scheduled and unscheduled shift coverage, performs tasks that require physical exertion and is expected to respond to off-hour call-ins when contacted by phone or company furnished pager or cell phone
  • Establishes and maintains high personal and professional standards of safety and environmental conscientiousness and compliance
  • Supports all departments and performs other duties necessary to fulfill plant requirements
  • Perform all other duties as assigned

Minimum Education & Experience Requirements
  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
  • Three (3) years of power plant experience in operations and maintenance, including experience as a qualified O&M Tech III

Other Qualifications
Preferred:
*Experience with wood fired steam turbine electrical generation
Other Requirements:
*Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license
*Knowledge of power plant safety policies and procedures, especially in the areas of high-energy systems, chemical handling, heavy equipment, rotating machinery, confined spaces, incipient fire suppression, and first aid
*Basic knowledge of or ability to understand fundamental principles related to physics, mathematics, AC and DC electrical theory, chemistry, water treatment process, thermal dynamics, heat transfer and fluid flow
*Knowledge of and experience in at least four (4) of the following skill areas: pipefitting, welding, machining, rigging, rotating machine repair, fabrication, machine alignment, piping schematics, mechanical drawings, electrical theory, electrical safety, vibration analysis, electrical test equipment, basic electrical trouble-shooting, and high- and low-voltage systems, equipment, and components
*Demonstrated knowledge regarding operation of valves, switches, controls, keyboards, and other devices associated with power plants
*Working knowledge of maintenance management systems
*Ability to comprehend and apply technical information, including mechanical and electrical drawings (such as blueprints, P&IDs, single-line diagrams and schematics) to problem-solving situations and troubleshooting
*Ability to locate, trouble-shoot, and adjust defects in mechanical equipment and/or maintain, install, modify and trouble-shoot plant electrical systems and equipment without "tripping" equipment (with supervision, if necessary)
*Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English and perform basic mathematical calculations
*Ability to communicate and coordinate work on technical subjects with others across job families and with outside vendors
*Operating and maintenance experience with various analytical and test equipment
*Demonstrated knowledge, skill and prior hands-on operational experience relating to instrumentation and control systems used in modern power stations, including burner management, combustion control, boiler controls, turbine controls, machine condition monitoring and continuous emissions monitoring (CEMS)
*Demonstrated knowledge, skill and prior hands-on operational experience relating to electrical systems used in modern power stations, including 13.8KV switchgear and motors, 4160-volt switchgear and motors, 480-volt motors and control centers, transformers, batteries, inverters and chargers, main generator, and excitation equipment
*Outstanding skill in leadership and interpersonal relationships
Physical Demands & Working Conditions
The physical demands characterized here epitomize those that must be met by an employee to properly perform the integral functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. In order to properly perform the integral functions of this job, the employee is required to:
  • Sit, stand, or walk for a minimum of 8-hour shifts, including walking long distances, up and down stairs and on uneven ground
  • Frequently lift objects of up to 75 pounds in weight and carry objects of up to 35 pounds in weight. Occasionally the employee will have to push or pull objects of up to 70 pounds in weight
  • Frequently climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch or occasionally, crawl
  • Talk & hear; use hands & fingers; handle & feel; and able to reach with hands and arms extensively
  • Frequent operations of controls with occasional driving and fine hand function manipulations of tools and equipment
  • Vision requirements for this position include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to outside weather conditions, including wet and/or humid conditions, and extreme heat and cold. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud. Regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts and/or machinery and burns. Exposed to protected and unprotected heights, which requires the use of a personal fall protection system (harness/lifeline). Occasionally exposed to vibration and fumes or airborne particles which will require the use of personal protective equipment including respirators; flame retardant clothing; self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), etc. Enter and work in confined space areas.
Additional Information
Incumbents may engage in all or some combination of the activities and accountabilities, and utilize a variety of the competencies cited in this description depending upon the organization and role to which they are assigned. This description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by incumbents in this job. It is not intended as an all-inclusive list of accountabilities or responsibilities, nor is it intended to limit the rights of supervisors or management representatives to assign, direct and control the work of employees under their supervision.
PRIVACY NOTICE TO CALIFORNIA JOB APPLICANTS
At DTE Energy, we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome and a sense of belonging. We seek individuals with a heart for service, a passion to help our communities prosper, and ideas to help shape the future of energy. We are proud to be an equal opportunity, employer that considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, disability, national origin, citizenship, height, weight, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable federal and/or state laws.

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