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Distributed Control System Operator Jobs in Colorado

Quest Global

Control Panel Engineer

Longmont, CO

$85 - $105K/hr

System Design and Architecture: Lead the design of Control Panel, including the overall cabinet layout, internal components, power distribution, and system architecture. Ensure that designs meet ...

Quest Global

Control Panel Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$85 - $105K/hr

System Design and Architecture: Lead the design of Control Panel, including the overall cabinet layout, internal components, power distribution, and system architecture. Ensure that designs meet ...

Quest Global

Control Panel Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$85 - $105K/hr

System Design and Architecture: Lead the design of Control Panel, including the overall cabinet layout, internal components, power distribution, and system architecture. Ensure that designs meet ...

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Distributed Control System Operator information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Distributed Control System Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Distributed Control System (DCS) Operator, you need a solid understanding of process control, instrumentation, and industrial automation, typically supported by a technical diploma or associate degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with DCS platforms such as Honeywell, Siemens, or Emerson, as well as relevant safety certifications and SCADA systems, is usually required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help operators manage complex systems and respond quickly to issues. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and reliable plant operations in highly regulated industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Distributed Control System Operators, and how can they be managed?

Distributed Control System Operators often encounter challenges such as responding to system alarms, managing equipment malfunctions, and ensuring continuous, safe plant operations. Rapid decision-making and effective communication with maintenance and engineering teams are crucial to minimize downtime and safety risks. Staying updated with system upgrades and participating in regular training also help operators manage new technologies and evolving procedures. Collaboration and strong attention to detail are key to successfully overcoming these challenges.

What is a Distributed Control System (DCS) Operator?

A Distributed Control System (DCS) Operator is a professional responsible for monitoring, controlling, and optimizing industrial processes using a distributed control system. They ensure that manufacturing plants or industrial facilities run efficiently, safely, and within set parameters by managing process variables such as temperature, pressure, and flow. DCS Operators respond to alarms, troubleshoot issues, and coordinate with other team members to maintain smooth operations. Their role is crucial in industries like oil and gas, power generation, chemical manufacturing, and water treatment.

What is the difference between Distributed Control System Operator vs Control Room Operator?

AspectDistributed Control System OperatorControl Room Operator
CredentialsTechnical certifications in control systems, process operationsBasic operational training, sometimes technical certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, energy plantsControl rooms, monitoring stations across various industries
Industry UsagePower plants, oil & gas, manufacturingUtilities, transportation, manufacturing

The Distributed Control System Operator focuses on managing and monitoring complex control systems within industrial environments, often requiring technical certifications. Control Room Operators oversee plant operations from control rooms, ensuring safety and efficiency. While both roles involve monitoring equipment, the DCS Operator specializes in control system management, whereas the Control Room Operator handles overall plant operations.

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What job categories do people searching Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Distributed Control System Operator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Distributed Control System Operator job openings:
Distributed Control System Operator jobs near you
System Operator II or III

System Operator II or III

CORE Electric Cooperative

Sedalia, CO • On-site

$40.24 - $59.52/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

About CORE
CORE Electric Cooperative is the largest member-owned electric distribution cooperative in Colorado dedicated to providing reliable, affordable, clean, and safe electric service to our communities. With a commitment to innovation and member satisfaction, we strive to meet the evolving needs of our members while maintaining the highest standards of service excellence.
Job Summary
The System Operator II and System Operator III are responsible for the safe and reliable operation of CORE's Transmission and Distribution systems from the Primary or Backup Control Center. The System Operator II performs bulk electric system (BES) transmission tasks and coordinates normal and emergency operations and switching under the supervision of a System Operator III or Senior. The System Operator II and System Operator III will consistently work a 12-hour shift comprised of day or night hours according to the given weekly schedule.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Monitors and controls CORE's transmission and distribution system. Uses SCADA to monitor transmission line status, real and reactive power flows, and voltage per NERC requirements.
  • Coordinates and monitors switching and clearances on the transmission and distribution system, assigning and scheduling requests for clearing lines and equipment and issuing clearances and non-reclose orders.
  • Coordinates routine and emergency switching and operations in accordance with relevant CORE work practices and operating procedures.
  • Analyzes power outages via SCADA, Outage Management System (OMS) and field input. Develops and implements corrective actions. Operates CORE's OMS and reports issues to support.
  • Directs service crews and line crews by radio, telephone and the use of maps in isolating faults, troubleshooting, and restoring customer load.
  • Logs system and operation events, where required. Prepares reports and keeps records.
  • Calls in necessary personnel and dispatches crews as necessary during system emergencies and outages.
  • Answers telephone calls received in the Sedalia office outside of normal working hours and processes them properly.
  • Contacts proper authorities and requests emergency police, fire or medical equipment in the event of accidents, sabotage or vandalism to CORE facilities.
  • Informs CORE management of issues per the Supervisor On-call procedure.
  • Monitors alarms for radio repeaters, substations, building fire alarms, building security and security cameras. Takes appropriate actions as needed.
  • Attends internal and external NERC continuing education classes as needed to obtain or maintain NERC certification.
  • The System Operator III has the authority and responsibility to adhere to the requirements of NERC Reliability Standards and WECC Regional Reliability Standards.

Minimum Qualifications of System Operator II
  • High school diploma or equivalent certificate required
  • 3 or more years of practical experience with an electric utility.
  • Requires valid Colorado driver's license with satisfactory driving record within CORE standards.
  • Must obtain NERC certification as RC, TOP, or BITO within 18 months of employment. Satisfactory background check results required per NERC CIP.
  • Must obtain NERC certification as RC, TOP, or BITO within 18 months of employment.
  • Competent with position-specific software and applications.
  • Competent with Microsoft Office: Excel, Word, Outlook.
  • Competent with general office equipment.

Minimum Qualifications of System Operator III
  • High school diploma or equivalent certificate required.
  • 3 or more years of practical equivalent experience as an electric System Operator required. Willing to consider 5 years' experience in electric utility operations experience in substitute for System operator experience.
  • NERC certification as RC. TOP, or BITO required.
  • Requires a valid Colorado Driver's License with satisfactory driving record within CORE's standards.
  • Satisfactory background check results required per NERC CIP
  • Competent with position-specific software and applications.
  • Competent with Microsoft Office: Excel, Word, Outlook.
  • Competent with general office equipment.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements
  • Sedentary work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally and all other sedentary criteria are met.
  • None: The worker is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions (as in typical office or administrative work).

Note: This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed and is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned.
Application Timeline
The application deadline for this job is estimated to be 6/15/2026. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs, the availability of qualified candidates, and whether the role is filled or not. We encourage qualified candidates to submit their application(s) expediently so as not to miss out on opportunities.
CORE offers a comprehensive benefits package including the following...
  • 9/80 work schedule: every other Friday off!
  • Nine paid holidays per year
  • 160 Hours of accruable PTO per year
  • Paid parental leave
  • Education and training reimbursement
  • Volunteer paid time off
  • 100% Cooperative paid benefits, including:
    • Defined benefit pension plan
    • Medical insurance
    • Dental insurance
    • Vision insurance
    • Short term disability
    • Long term disability
    • Employee assistance program
    • Life insurance
    • HSA with employer contribution
  • 401(k) with up to 4% match. Immediately 100% vested
  • Length of service program
  • Free Onsite EV charging stations (at certain locations)
  • Onsite micro market (at certain locations)
  • Onsite gym with golf simulator and massage chairs (at certain locations)

CORE is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
  • EEO is The Law - click here for more information
  • Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled
  • We consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, handicap or disability, or status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran in accordance with federal law. If you need assistance, please reach out to us at hr@core.coop

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