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Distributed Control System Operator Jobs in Iowa

As a Distribution Operator, you play a critical role in ensuring customers receive the products ... computer systems for inventory, tracking, and order fulfillmentWe're Looking For:We want team ...

As a Distribution Operator, you play a critical role in ensuring customers receive the products ... Work with basic computer systems for inventory, tracking, and order fulfillment We're Looking For:

Control Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA ยท On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Work with design, software, and test engineers to develop and validate control system solutions. * Translate customer and operator feedback into measurable product improvements. * Support product ...

Control Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA ยท On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Work with design, software, and test engineers to develop and validate control system solutions. * Translate customer and operator feedback into measurable product improvements. * Support product ...

Biorefinery Process Operator Nevada, IA Competitive Hourly Rates based on experience. The ... Operate the DCS (Distributed Control System) for the plant. * Troubleshoot equipment to optimize ...

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Distributed Control System Operator information

What is a distributed control system 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a distributed control system operator?

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Iowa?

For Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Distributed Control System Operator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Distributed Control System Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Distributed Control System Operator job openings in Iowa as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Field Service Control Systems Engineer

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

Novaspect
201 - 500 employees

$82K - $92K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Field Service Control Systems Engineer

Novaspect, Inc., an Emerson Impact Partner, the global leader of automation systems and solutions, is currently offering an opportunity for a Field Service Control Systems Engineer to join our fast paced, customer-oriented Field Service engineering team. The successful candidate will assist our Engineering and Sales teams in the development and delivery of process control solutions for our industrial customers.

Field Service Engineer Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Actively listening and communicating to accomplish customerโ€™s objectives
  • Providing ongoing site support, which may include: Distributed Control System configuration, commissioning, startup, and tuning
  • Distributed Control System, field instrumentation, and system-related troubleshooting and problem resolution
  • Performing basic to complex Loop tuning
  • Creating and managing interfaces to PLCs, drives, and various control bus networks
  • Performing basic to complex cybersecurity maintenance
  • Setting up and configuring Microsoft Windows administrator functions
  • Creating and managing Ethernet IP networks
  • Leading preventive maintenance visits
  • Auditing control system power and grounding
  • Recommending and implementing plant floor digital transformation technologies, including setting up and configuration of Operational Analytics, Product Data Management, and Operations Management Systems.
  • Travelling to customer facilities
  • Developing solutions with customer-provided information, system design, remote access, backup system files, virtual systems, designing and testing solutions
  • Developing and delivering operator training.
  • Provide clear and frequent communications by:
  • Performing basic to complex diagnostic and troubleshooting over the phone or video and in person
  • Creating and delivering detailed and professional engineering reports offering clear recommendations and guidance to customers
  • Independent customer interface, technical review of opportunities, system-generated reports, actionable recommendations
  • Capturing leads for additional product or service opportunities
  • Work as a team by:
  • Working cooperatively with others, sharing knowledge, lessons learned, and participating in or leading team meetings and projects where solutions are developed, ideas are exchanged, and processes are improved
  • Helping colleagues as they encounter situations
  • Participating in and supporting the Novaspectโ€™s technical access line (NTA)
  • Mentoring other Control System Engineers
  • Working closely with sales to bring in any opportunities
  • Work to grow Novaspect as an employee-owner by:
  • Representing Novaspectโ€™s core behaviors, quality, customer service, and brand
  • Developing advanced skills and knowledge in general control systems, infrastructure, and operational technology
  • Complying with internal and customer safety programs
  • Emphasizing Novaspect Core Behaviors and Lenses in daily activities and interactions
Field Service Engineer Education and/or Experience
  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in engineering or technology field or technical work experience
  • 2-4 years of experience in the control system engineering field
  • Experience working with DeltaV, preferred
  • Demonstrate excellence in core job responsibilities and competencies
  • Seeks additional responsibilities, engages in opportunities to grow and develop skills and competencies
  • Ability to perform as an embedded engineer at a customer location
  • Ability to work independently as the primary technical interface for customer or sales team
Field Service Engineer Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift up to 30lbs (i.e., Workstation Monitors and Laptop Computers)
  • Ability to work extended hours on a computer
  • Ability to work in a loud industrial environment
  • For Field-based roles: Must be willing to work at customer sites which include, but are not limited to, oil & gas sites, refineries, nuclear and chemical plants, paper, and steel mills
  • For Field-based roles: Ability to be clean-shaven to accommodate required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) usage (e.g., respirator) as needed at customer
  • Ability to travel to customer sites up to 65% of the time
Field Service Engineer Pay
  • Base Salary Range: $82,000 - $92,000
  • Potential Bonus: 5%
  • Overtime Eligible
Field Service Engineer Benefits
  • Generous paid time off; starting at 15 vacation days, 10 holidays, and 10 days of Paid Sick & Safety Time (PSST)
  • 401K with 6% company match
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Excellent health & wellness benefits
  • Student debt & tuition reimbursement
  • Referral bonus

Novaspect is a 2025 Great Place to Work Certified company

Who We Are

Novaspect, Inc., is an employee-owned company that engineers, sells, and services industrial process controls. Our Core Purpose is to improve our customerโ€™s performance through the innovative application of technology. We are passionate about creating effective processes and building customer relationships. We position ourselves to attract the best talent and ensure we are delivering local services with proven technologies. Novaspect seeks to increase the success and sustainability of our customersโ€™ operations and our local communities. We do this by providing best-in-class industrial automation solutions. As a 100% employee-owned ESOP company, we are also looking for folks who share our desire to have a positive impact on customers and their communities, and with a personal investment in successful results.

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