1

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

Senior Reactor Operator

Crest Hill, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Crest Hill, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Elwood, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Elwood, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License ...

Showing results 41-60

Control Room Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$23

$44

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.

Production Supervisor - Chemical

JSK Recruiting, Inc

Saint Charles, IL

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Production Supervisor - Chemicals
St Charles, IL (On-site)
Compensation: $90,000 to $120,000 plus bonus
About the Role
A well-established chemical manufacturing operation in St Charles is looking for a hands-on Production Supervisor to lead a team of up to 10 operators across a continuous chemical production process. This is a floor-first leadership role with approximately 70% of your time spent on the floor and 30% on scheduling, reporting, and coordination. The facility runs 24/7 and this shift is newly created as the plant expands to three-shift operations, making this a great opportunity to set the tone and build something from the start.
Processes are largely automated and controlled through an automated system, with operators monitoring from a central control room and the supervisor moving across all three areas.
About the Company
This is a large, globally recognized manufacturer of chemical products with a multicultural workforce and a culture that values floor presence, technical problem solving, and people who lead by example. The plant runs quarterly maintenance shutdowns and an annual full facility shutdown. The team is collaborative, cross-functional, and built around continuous improvement. Career growth is real here, and the company invests in people who show up and perform.
Responsibilities
  • Lead up to 10 operators across multiple departments
  • Troubleshoot chemical reactions and process deviations proactively and make sound decisions under pressure
  • Manage batch scheduling and coordinate raw material inventory validation and truck unloading
  • Monitor all process systems through the control room and ensure operators are executing to standard
  • Complete shift reports, log batch numbers and PBOs for traceability, and track process deviations accurately
  • Plan and oversee manual material handling tasks including raw material reloading, QC sampling, and end-of-run cleaning
  • Drive housekeeping, safety, and operational standards across all three process areas
Requirements
  • BS in Chemical engineering, Chemistry, Biology or related is required or an equivalent of 5+ years of hands-on chemical processing leadership experience
  • Experience in continuous chemical processes is required; polymerization, coatings, plastics, or extrusion backgrounds are a strong fit
  • PSM program is strongly preferred
  • Leadership experience in a chemical, or closely related industrial manufacturing environment with the ability to make decisions independently on shift
  • Automated processing equipment is preferred
  • Floor-first mindset with the ability to move between hands-on work and desk responsibilities
  • Stable work history with a track record of growing within organizations
Compensation and Benefits
  • $90,000 to $120,000 base salary plus bonus
  • Performance bonus paid twice per year based on results across the facility
  • 100% paid for medical benefits
  • Weekend rotation with scheduled time off built in
  • Stable, globally recognized company with real career growth potential
This is a role for someone who thrives in a technical environment, leads from the floor, and wants to grow within a world-class chemical manufacturing operation. If that describes you, apply now and let's talk.
#ZR

Company Description

The team at JSK Recruiting, Inc. prides itself on providing boutique-level services combined with the resources of a larger recruiting firm. We forgo the traditional nine-to-five workday model in favor of complete accessibility. We are here for our clients and candidates when they need us most.

With 12 years of experience in the field of supply chain and manufacturing recruiting, we maintain the relationships that employers are looking for in a recruiting firm as well as those that talented professionals need when they are ready to make a career change.

At JSK Recruiting, we provide complete recruiting services, from sourcing candidates to organizing the interview process. Finding both long-term employees and rewarding careers across manufacturing and supply chain positions has never been easier.