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Control Room Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

DTE Energy

Control Room Supervisor

Newport, MI · On-site

In accordance with the plant operating license, approved procedures, and management expectations ... Maintains close oversight of control room activities to detect errors or lapses in judgement or a ...

DTE Energy

Control Room Supervisor

Newport, MI

In accordance with the plant operating license, approved procedures, and management expectations ... Maintains close oversight of control room activities to detect errors or lapses in judgement or a ...

DTE Energy

Control Room Supervisor

Newport, MI · On-site

In accordance with the plant operating license, approved procedures, and management expectations ... Maintains close oversight of control room activities to detect errors or lapses in judgement or a ...

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All JobsControl Room Operator JobsControl Room Operator Jobs in Michigan

Control Room Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$20

$37

How much do control room operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for control room operator in Michigan is $20.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $22.21 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.
More about Control Room Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Control Room Operator jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Control Room Operator jobs in Michigan are:
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What job categories do people searching Control Room Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Control Room Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Control Room Operator jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Control Room Operator job openings:
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Control Room Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Control Room Operator job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,971 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Senior Control Room Operator - NorthStar Clean Energy

Senior Control Room Operator - NorthStar Clean Energy

Consumers Energy

Gaylord, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Consumers Energy rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 53 rated energy and utility

Job description

NorthStar Clean Energy decarbonizes the economy by providing clean energy and carbon management solutions to utility, municipal, commercial, and industrial customers enabling them to meet their sustainability and business goals. Additionally, we own and operate natural gas assets throughout the United States. To learn more about NorthStar Clean Energy, please visit www.northstarcleanenergy.com.
This position is with NorthStar Clean Energy, a CMS Energy company, and is not a position of employment with Consumers Energy.
Livingston Generating Station consists of four quick-start, simple-cycle combustion turbines totaling 156 MW. The plant's electric output is offered into the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) market and provides VAR support to the transmission system.
Livingston Generating Station is adjacent to an electric substation and a natural gas pipeline and is often tapped to provide power during transmission system work. The station's generating units are enclosed in a double-walled block building designed for sound control and aesthetics.
The Senior Control Room Operator is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of gas turbine generators and associated auxiliary systems within a power generation facility. This role includes both control room and field operations, with a strong emphasis on real-time monitoring, system optimization, and rapid response to changing plant conditions.
The Senior Control Room Operator is responsible for complying with all station procedures and environmental regulations and directing the activities on their shift. Directing the operation of major plant equipment and recordkeeping duties to ensure efficient and safe plant operations within established procedures and parameters.
Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Monitor the operation of major plant equipment and systems and take appropriate action to ensure they are operated safely, in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements according to the Emissions Minimization Plan, in a manner consistent with maximizing availability and in a manner consistent with optimizing fuel efficiency
  • Maintain a log of significant operating activities and events and generate required reports
  • Operate assigned control systems including distributed control, water, steam, combustion, turbine generator and related components in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Answer the telephone when necessary in a professional manner and serve as a focal point for communications during emergency situations
  • Direct and ensure completion of required safety procedures; (e.g., lockout/tagout, confined space, hot work)
  • Take measurements and readings and compare with standards; implement corrective actions within established procedures
  • Assist in maintaining the boiler system by adding/transferring chemicals as needed to maintain desired parameters
  • Identify and correct problems; report problems requiring further action
  • Respond to alarms in a timely manner; operate necessary equipment to effectively respond to critical situations
  • Coordinate and may direct activities of other work groups as necessary to support overall plant operations. Train plant personnel in accordance with Company policies and government regulations. Oversee the work of sub-contractors on assigned shift, as necessary. Perform other comparable non-operating duties during plant shutdowns.
  • Initiate and execute unit startup, shutdown, and load adjustments following established procedures
  • Maintain continuous situational awareness of plant status, including generation output and system constraints
  • Other non-essential duties as assigned or may be necessary

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision in both control room and field environments
  • Comfortable working alone for extended periods while maintaining high situational awareness and accountability. Have a working knowledge of LOTO, confined space, P & ID's, hot work
  • Ability to use past experience, analytical judgement, to plan and perform diversified work
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety
  • Excellent communication skills to provide clear direction and feedback to all team members on the site
  • Agility to be able to work overtime, as well as rotating shift schedules that include weekends and holidays
  • Strong understanding of gas turbine systems, thermodynamics, and power plant processes

Position Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or GED required
  • Associate's Degree preferred
  • 4+ years of power plant operations experience as an operator and or previous control room experience required, with 3 years' experience as a plant operator preferred
  • Electrical & Mechanical experience and knowledge for troubleshooting required.
  • Valid driver's license required

Working Conditions:
  • The working conditions for this position may include, but are not limited to, the following requirements and environmental exposures. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • The working conditions for this position may include climbing stairs; frequent walking; and the ability to sit or stand for extended periods. The role may require stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling, as well as lifting, moving, or carrying items up to 35 pounds. Employees must maintain close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus, and must remain alert throughout the workday. Effective communication is essential, along with regular use of computers and related technology. The position may involve exposure to atmospheric conditions such as dust, fumes, odors, gases, and other airborne particles. Work environments may include high noise areas, confined spaces, and elevated locations, as well as extreme internal or external temperatures, including prolonged exposure to the sun. The role may also involve exposure to mechanical, electrical, thermal, chemical, and high/low pressure steam hazards, as well as high electrical voltage. Employees may be required to operate heavy or hazardous equipment and handle potentially hazardous chemicals while following established safety procedures.
  • To support a safe and productive workplace, the Company may require a Fitness for Duty (FFD) evaluation to confirm an employee can safely and effectively perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation. FFD testing will be used only in circumstances permitted by law and administered in a manner that is job related and consistent with business necessity.

Location:
The selected candidate must be within a commutable distance or willing to relocate. Relocation assistance is not offered for this position.
Why should you join our team?
At NorthStar Clean Energy, we offer more than just a place to work. We foster a culture that supports career development, growth, and stability, and we take pride in offering our co-workers excellent benefits and compensation packages. We are deliberately creating an inclusive culture that makes our diverse team of co-workers feel valued, supported, and empowered every day. We're a company made up of thousands of people, all with different stories to share and work to do, but we stand united in our company purpose: world class performance delivering hometown service.
What we offer:
  • Competitive compensation packages
  • Medical, Dental and Vision
  • 401k with company match
  • Paid parental leave
  • Up to 13 paid Holidays
  • Paid time off
  • Educational Assistance Program

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:
We, at NorthStar Clean Energy, value Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion. It is part of our DNA. We treat our employees with respect, we treat each other fairly and we value the opinions of others. We are passionate about building and nurturing an environment where everyone feels included. We don't discriminate. We seek to learn about each other and better understand our unique differences. Our uniqueness makes us authentic. We create safe spaces where everyone can be who they truly are. We invite difficult conversations and uncomfortable topics. We value diverse perspectives; this is what makes us great together. We harbor an inclusive environment where employees feel empowered to share their backgrounds, experiences, and ideas. Our Employee Resource Groups, Women's Advisory Panel (WAP), Women's in Energy (WE), Minority Advisory Panel (MAP), Pride Alliance of Consumers Energy (PACE), GENERGY, capable, Interfaith and Veterans Advisory Panel (VAP) are key enablers to living the values of our company culture: Caring, Empowered, Deliberate, Agility, and Ownership.
All qualified applicants will not be discriminated against and will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability, race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.

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