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Control Room Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Operate all plant equipment to meet plant dispatch requirements and report issues or other anomalies of plant equipment and performance to Control Room Operator, Maintenance or Direct Manager ...

Operate all plant equipment to meet plant dispatch requirements and report issues or other anomalies of plant equipment and performance to Control Room Operator, Maintenance or Direct Manager ...

Operate all plant equipment to meet plant dispatch requirements and report issues or other anomalies of plant equipment and performance to Control Room Operator, Maintenance or Direct Manager ...

Work closely with control room operator to maintain operations. * Completes daily and weekend checklists (daily inventory). * Completes all assigned Impact items * Supports all AIMS initiatives

Work closely with control room operator to maintain operations. * Completes daily and weekend checklists (daily inventory). * Completes all assigned Impact items * Supports all AIMS initiatives

Site Logistics Technician

Alsip, IL · On-site

$28.72 - $38.98/hr

Works closely with other functions, such as control room operators and quality control to ensure efficient operation of the plant to meet production demand. Accountabilities Accurate and efficient ...

Work closely with control room operator to maintain operations. * Completes daily and weekend checklists (daily inventory). * Completes all assigned Impact items * Supports all AIMS initiatives

Operator I

Lockport, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

Sweeps, mops, scrubs and vacuums floors, cleans offices, restrooms and control room per standard ... Additionally, Operator are eligible for the annual Local Performance-Based Compensation program.

Travel OR RN

Chicago, IL · On-site

$2.2K - $2.3K/wk

OR - Operating Room * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 09/08/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per ... Maintain a sterile environment and follow OR best practices and infection control standards ...

Operators

Hammond, IN · On-site

$35.10 - $40.10/hr

Keeps the control room and/or office clean and neat. 12. Patrols and inspects work areas or units to detect leaks and equipment malfunctions, monitors operating conditions and shuts equipment down if ...

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Control Room Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do control room operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for control room operator in Chicago, IL is $23.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $26.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Control Room Operator jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Control Room Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Control Room Operator jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Control Room Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Control Room Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,606 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Combustion Turbine Technician

NRG

Aurora, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Welcome to the intersection of energy and home services. At NRG, we’re all about propelling the next generation of leaders forward. We are driven by our passion to create a smarter, cleaner and more connected future. We deliver innovative solutions that make our customers’ lives easier—helping them power, protect, and intelligently manage their homes and businesses. To do this, we need creative and talented people to join our company.

We offer a dynamic work environment and a unified and inclusive culture. NRG fosters a strong sense of belonging that leads to better collaboration and business performance. Our company programs are designed to help employees develop the skills they need for success now and in the future. In everything we do, we aim to champion our employees and bring value to our customers, investors and society.

More information is available at www.nrg.com. Connect with NRG on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.

The Combustion Turbine Technician is an entry level position and is responsible for monitoring the status of all plant systems, controlling routine plant operations, responding to alarms and abnormal conditions by taking appropriate corrective actions as directed by Control Room Operator, and performs basic routine maintenance duties. The position will assist in plant shutdown and start-up procedures as required and assures that the plant meets its generating requirements while operating in a safe and efficient manner.

The Combustion Turbine Technician carries out tasks in accordance with Plant Operating and Maintenance procedures and associated vendor and manufacturer technical procedures. This position operates from established and well-known procedures, performing duties as directed, encountering recurring work situations which can be highly complex, occasional variations from the norm.

 

Job Functions

 

  • Perform “Auxiliary Operator” duties; assist in starting, operating, and stopping the plant and responding to abnormal and emergency conditions in the most effective manner, complying with all safety and environmental requirements.
  • Continuously monitor system and component conditions to determine plant and equipment performance.
  • Operate all plant equipment to meet plant dispatch requirements and report issues or other anomalies of plant equipment and performance to Control Room Operator, Maintenance or Direct Manager.
  • Assist in conducting acceptance and performance tests on existing or new plant equipment.
  • Adjust control systems to regulate the load on the Gas Turbines and to maintain proper conditions.
  • Perform emergency activities to maintain electric service and safeguard station equipment as required.
  • Control all plant evolutions to ensure their safe and effective conduct and compliance with established policies and procedures.
  • Perform basic mechanical maintenance duties such as predictive and preventative maintenance, replacing basic parts (filters, gaskets, etc.), and repacking bearings.
  • Perform the tasks of opening, closing, racking, resetting, and routine maintenance on breakers and switch gear up to 138 kV.
  • Conduct basic trouble shooting and analysis on indication and control equipment.
  • Collect and analyze “trending” information to evaluate equipment performance and to forecast possible equipment failures.
  • Assist in and support major maintenance on plant equipment that is conducted by outside contractors.
  • Assist in physical inventories.
  • Participate in the administrative maintenance of the plant operating manuals, technical references, prints and diagrams and preventative/predictive maintenance records.
  • Maintain complete equipment files, logs, drawings, and schematics for all designated equipment.
  • Maintain assigned working locations in a neat and orderly condition.
  • Complete other tasks as requested by the Operations, Maintenance Manager or Direct Report

 

Education and Experience – An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will be considered.

  • High school graduate or equivalent, and trade school, related military service training programs, or technical training school programs.
  • Experience with mechanical, electrical or PLC troubleshooting and repair is a plus but not required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities - which may be representative, but not all-inclusive of those commonly associated with this position.

  • Must possess basic math skills, good verbal communications skills, and be proficient with the use of power and precision tools.
  • Must be cooperative with those he/she contacts in this work and have the ability to work without direct supervision.
  • Must know the hazards involved and the safety precautions to be practiced in the operation and maintenance of power plant equipment and machinery.
  • Work within and insure strict adherence to all safety practices and procedures.
  • Must be able to respond to audio alarms and variations of sound.
  • Basic data entry/computer skills
  • Work as part of a team.

Work Environment – Environmental or atmospheric conditions commonly associated with the performance of the functions of this job.

  • Protective equipment such as hard hats, safety glasses, ear protection and other equipment must be worn in the performance of some duties. Work with hazardous materials may be required.
  • Requires working rotating 12-hour shifts with weekend and holiday work as required by schedules, workload and plant conditions. Shift schedule is 4 days on and 4 days off in a Day, Day, Day, Day, Off, Off, Off, Off, Night, Night, Night, Night, Off, Off, Off, Off.  Includes working indoors and outdoors.

Physical Abilities - The physical demands described below represent those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully.  Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

  • Must be able to work on your feet for extensive periods, requiring stair and ladder climbing, and routinely lifting 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to work in elevated areas, confined spaces and in extreme heat and cold conditions.

The base salary range for this position is $66,320- $99,480. The base salary range above represents the low and high end of the salary range for this position. Actual salaries will vary based on several factors including but not limited to location, experience, and performance. The range listed is just one component of the total compensation package for employees. Other rewards may include annual bonus, short- and long-term incentives, and program-specific awards. In addition the position may be eligible to participate in the benefits program which include, but are not limited to, medical, vision, dental, 401K, and flexible spending accounts.  

NRG Energy is committed to a drug and alcohol-free workplace. To the extent permitted by law and any applicable collective bargaining agreement, employees are subject to periodic random drug testing, and post-accident and reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol testing. EOE AA M/F/Protected Veteran Status/Disability. Level, Title and/or Salary may be adjusted based on the applicant's experience or skills.

EEO is the Law Poster (The poster can be found at http://www.eeoc.gov/employers/upload/poster_screen_reader_optimized.pdf)

Official description on file with Talent.


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About NRG

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At NRG, we're bringing the power of energy to people and organizations by putting customers at the center of everything we do. We generate electricity and provide energy solutions and natural gas to millions of customers through our diverse portfolio of retail brands. A Fortune 500 company, operating in the United States and Canada, NRG delivers innovative solutions while advocating for competitive energy markets and customer choice, working towards a sustainable energy future. More information is available at www.nrg.com. Connect with NRG on Facebook, LinkedIn and follow us on Twitter @nrgenergy.

Industry

Oil and coal products manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US