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Control Room Operator Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Site: The Brigham and Women's Hospital, Inc. Mass General Brigham relies on a wide range of professionals, including doctors, nurses, business people, tech experts, researchers, and systems analysts ...

Site: The Brigham and Women's Hospital, Inc. Mass General Brigham relies on a wide range of professionals, including doctors, nurses, business people, tech experts, researchers, and systems analysts ...

Auxiliary Operator

Boston, MA · On-site

$45.54/hr

Keep Assistant Watch Engineer and Control Room Operator informed of changes in equipment conditions. * Check, clean, and change burners and fuel oil strainers. * Start and stop auxiliary equipment.

Working under the supervision of the Shift Supervisor and the direction of the Control Room Operator, the Utility Operator will be responsible for the operation and inspection of various power plant ...

Refinery Operator

Quincy, MA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Conduct shift turnover with the relief operator in the control room. * Participate in maintenance activities during shutdown and repairs, joining the Maintenance team to perform inspection ...

Apply Early

Conduct shift turnover with the relief operator in the control room. * Participate in maintenance activities during shutdown and repairs, joining the Maintenance team to perform inspection ...

Apply Early

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Showing results 1-20

Control Room Operator information

See Boston, MA salary details

$14

$25

$46

How much do control room operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for control room operator in Boston, MA is $25.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.86 and $27.69 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 Boston, MA? The most popular types of Control Room Operator jobs in Boston, MA are:
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What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Control Room Operator jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Control Room Operator job openings:
Control Room Operator

$37.51 - $48.46/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Reading Municipal Light Department
Job Position Description
Job Title: Control Room OperatorReports to: General Foreman OperationsDivision: OperationsSteps 1-4 Revision Date: 9-23-20Reviewed By: Janet S. WalshWork Location: 230 Ash StReading, MA Union: Y☒ N☐ AFSCME - LMSFLSA: Exempt ☐ Non-Exempt☒
This Position Description presents illustrative work activities usually encountered by personnel filling this position. It is not meant to list all possible work activities in all possible work conditions. It is also not meant to define specific limits on work activities that may be performed by any person holding this position. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of management to assign, direct and control the work of employees under supervision. Position descriptions may occasionally be changed to allow the RMLD to better meet the needs of the customers, reflect applicable laws and regulations, or otherwise implement Commission policies. All non-bargaining unit RMLD workers are "employees at will."
Job Summary:
Under general supervision by the General Foreman Operations, assisted by the Assistant General Foreman Operations, performs operating tasks in the main Control Room located at 230 Ash Street including related to the safe and efficient support of the RMLD operations and customers. All functions related to integrated automation subsystems (SCADA, Outage Management System (OMS), Automated/Advanced Metering System, Integrated Work Order Management System, GIS, Distribution Management System (DMS), etc.), communication systems dispatch (two way radio, cell net, IVR, etc.), emergency response, security monitoring and control, basic customer service after normal business hours and occasionally during business hours if deemed necessary. The position requires shift duty in order to provide 24/7 continuous coverage of system operations.
Illustrative Work Activities:
Essential work activities, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
  • Monitors status of substation and field switching equipment via SCADA.
  • Operates switching equipment for routine or emergency work, Transmission owner, and REMVEC Operating Procedures, as directed by authorized Control Authority, in accordance with the RMLD Switching and Tagging policy.
  • Monitors Outage Management System (OMS) for outage detection. Assists in the isolation and restoration via SCADA, if applicable, as directed by authorized Control Authority.
  • Maintains, updates, corrects and distributes all required reports and records related to OMS.
  • Maintains, updates, and monitors all required reports, records related to operation of the Distribution Management System (DMS) and its communication with substations and field remote devices.
  • Produces outage management reports to support efforts such as troubleshooting, assistance in restoration efforts, prioritization, maintenance and engineering analysis.
  • Monitors and reports the functionality of the fixed network and metering system and the fiber loop system.
  • Maintains, updates, corrects and distributes all required reports, records related to operation of the distribution, fixed network, fiber systems and any RMLD distributed energy sources.
  • Operates system and maintains records and logs for all communication systems (two way radio, cell net, IVR, etc.).
  • Assists in the Work Order Management System to retrieve historic data and other pertinent data.
  • Assists in the update and management of the GIS; query GIS data to provide pertinent information and documents related to any distribution function including dig safes, system reconfiguration, outages, equipment profile, or any other GIS database information to support operations of the distribution system.
  • Monitors the functionality and data input/export between all subsystems within the DMS.
  • Assists in the development of technical training programs. Assists the General Foreman of Operations in the development, review and implementation of individual Career Development Program.
  • Participates in tailboard switching briefings in accordance with the RMLD Switching and Tagging Policy. Provides any known data and input regarding hazards, etc. pertinent to a safe and successful Switching Order.
  • Assists in enforcing all operational safety policies and procedures. Reports violations and assists in preparing lessons learned. Provides recommendations for improving the efficiency and/or safety of procedures to the General Foreman Operations and the Director of Engineering and Operations.
  • Assists in ensuring compliance with applicable NERC security regulations, etc.
  • Completes and maintains required reporting documents, including logging data, trending data etc. to support system reliability, maintenance of Asset Management database and overall accuracy.
  • Ability to be qualified as a Switchman and Tagman.

Minimum Qualifications
Education:
High school or electrical trade school graduate, with specialized courses in the electrical field or computer science. Associate degree in computer science, cartography, engineering, or equivalent as determined by the RMLD, preferred.
Experience:
One-year technical experience in an electric utility distribution system or equivalent. Experience in troubleshooting support of electric distribution operations using control room computer systems assets, remote switching and/or dispatching of electrical distribution equipment via SCADA, preferred. Experience operating relatively complex communications systems related to system distributions, metering, safety, dispatch, etc. Familiarity with dispatching of Code Blue and/or activating other emergency operating procedures with accuracy, desired. Familiarity with GIS mapping and editing, preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of control room computer systems assets. Good command of the English language. Good writing skills, excellent record keeping skills, demonstrated proficiency in basic math and computer skills, including software applications such as Microsoft365 including SharePoint. Ability to use social media and websites. Knowledge of basic diagnostic techniques for computer systems assets.
Judgment and Initiative:
Ability to provide appropriate levels of initiative, response and resolution to various issues including customer calls, distribution system issues, emergency response, Code Blue, ISO Grid emergency operating procedures, etc. Responsibilities involve performance of specialized procedures involving, but not limited to, system operation and communications with an emphasis on safety. Works primarily in accordance with written procedures and directives from Control Authorities. During system non-emergencies, operators are expected to use substantial judgment in the application of standard operating procedures. Operators must remain composed, alert and functional under sometimes stressful conditions occasioned by system and/or personnel emergencies. Duties are generally proceduralized, allowing employee to perform independently if necessary, modifying procedures to insure completion of work. Generally, works alone with defined written procedures.
Manual Skills:
Ability to operate computers, scanner, printers, plotters and other related equipment as required.
Physical Requirements:
Light lifting.
Supervisory:
None.
MA Licenses and Certifications:
Valid Class D Operators license required.
Other:
As a Department representative on customer complaints, customer service and emergency service, employee must demonstrate a strong initiative and ability to effectively evaluate control room systems to assist in providing support for troubleshooting system , communicate ideas, technical information, and directions in a precise and courteous manner.
Five Steps ranging from $37.51 to $48.46. Expected hiring rate is $37.51 per hour.