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Control Room Operator Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Operations Shift Engineer

Newport, MI · On-site

$63K - $86K/yr

May assume the Control Room Supervisor position as necessary. * Performs routine work control ... Reactor Operator * Engineering Officer of the Watch / Propulsion Plant Watch Officer * Engineering ...

Operations Shift Engineer

Newport, MI

$63K - $86K/yr

May assume the Control Room Supervisor position as necessary. * Performs routine work control ... Reactor Operator * Engineering Officer of the Watch / Propulsion Plant Watch Officer * Engineering ...

Operations Shift Engineer

Newport, MI · On-site

$63K - $86K/yr

May assume the Control Room Supervisor position as necessary. * Performs routine work control ... Reactor Operator * Engineering Officer of the Watch / Propulsion Plant Watch Officer * Engineering ...

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Control Room Operator information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$13

$22

$42

How much do control room operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for control room operator in Detroit, MI is $22.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $25.24 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 job categories do people searching Control Room Operator jobs in Detroit, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Control Room Operator jobs in Detroit, MI are:
What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Control Room Operator jobs? Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Control Room Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Control Room Operator job openings in Detroit, MI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,671 per year, or $22.9 per hour.
Control Room Supervisor

Control Room Supervisor

DTE Energy

Newport, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


DTE Energy rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 53 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.
Testing Required: EEI POSS Test
Job Summary
Provides supervision of shift operations functions of the Nuclear Generation organization to ensure the safe, reliable and efficient operations of the nuclear power plant and all its related equipment. In accordance with the plant operating license, approved procedures, and management expectations, directs the operation of the plant, turbine generator, and their auxiliaries while maintaining a broad perspective of operational conditions affecting the safety of the plant.
Key Accountabilities
  • Directs plant operations activities to produce maximum electrical output at minimum costs, consistent with regulatory requirements
  • Maintains, controls and directs plant activities to ensure control room monitoring remains the primary focus and directs the crew for the strategic implementation of normal and emergency operating procedures
  • Maintains close oversight of control room activities to detect errors or lapses in judgement or a breakdown in role responsibilities by other crew members, including asserting their authority for command and control whenever high standards are not being maintained
  • Conducts human reliability assessment of each crew member looking for indications of stress, anxiety, or nervousness and takes actions accordingly to address
  • Ensures plant activities are properly managed and coordinated and determines which activities require control room staff attention, including minimizing distractions
  • Conducts observations and evaluates performance against the station standards, identifies gaps in performance and provides coaching and feedback
  • May perform the function of field support supervisor or incident assessor
  • Performs crew briefings and updates to keep crewmembers aware of plant conditions and challenges
  • Maintains the Crew Performance Notebook
  • Participates as Emergency Response Organization member and responds to call-in's.
  • Ability to work effectively with employees at all organizational levels, communicating effectively both orally and in writing.

Qualifications
The candidate's education and experience must be verified and in accordance with Regulatory Qualifications List and ACAD 10001, Guidelines for Initial Training and Qualification of Licensed Operators as described below:
  • High School diploma or equivalent GED.
  • For an RO Upgrade or Direct SRO, must meet the eligibility requirement of current INPO ACAD 12 months or more as an ACTIVE RO at Fermi OR
  • 12 month or more as an ACTIVE RO or SRO at a commercial power reactor facility of the same vendor and vintage OR
  • 18 months or more as an ACTIVE RO or SRO at a BWR/PWR facility OR
  • 18 months in position equivalent to the reactor operator position at a military reactor such as:
    • Reactor Operator
    • Engineering Officer of the Watch / Propulsion Plant Watch Officer
    • Engineering Watch Supervisor / Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor

Additional Qualifications
Other Qualifications
  • Pass physical examination for Nuclear Regulatory Commission Regulation 396, "Certificate of Physical Exam" and Guide 1.134, "Medical Evaluation of Nuclear Power Plant Personnel Requiring Operator Licenses".
  • Must obtain and maintain Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license issued by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

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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