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Distributed Control System Operator Jobs in Ashburn, VA

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 4

Tysons, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

They're technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed ... Maintenance * Perform troubleshooting on service calls to existing and legacy system operators

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 3

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

They're technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed ... Perform troubleshooting on service calls to existing and legacy system operators. * Perform ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 3

Tysons, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

They're technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed ... Perform troubleshooting on service calls to existing and legacy system operators. * Perform ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 2 (Onsite)

Tysons, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

They're technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed ... Perform troubleshooting on service calls to existing and legacy system operators. * Perform ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 2 - Manassas

Manassas, VA · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

They're technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed ... Perform troubleshooting on service calls to existing and legacy system operators. * Perform ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 2

Tysons, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

... distributed control systems, PLCs, and SCADA systems. Control engineers use these skills to design ... operators. o Perform hardware / software upgrades and replacements on existing systems.

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 3

Tysons, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

... distributed control systems, PLCs, and SCADA systems. Control engineers use these skills to design ... operators. o Perform hardware / software upgrades and replacements on existing systems.

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 4

Tysons, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

... distributed control systems, PLCs, and SCADA systems. Control engineers use these skills to design ... system operators. o Perform hardware / software upgrades and replacements on existing systems.

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 1

Manassas, VA · On-site

$72K - $89K/yr

They're technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed ... Maintenance * Perform troubleshooting on service calls to existing and legacy system operators

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 3 - Manassas, VA

Manassas, VA · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

They're technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed ... Maintenance * Perform troubleshooting on service calls to existing and legacy system operators

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 1

Tysons, VA · On-site

$75K - $94K/yr

They're technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed ... Maintenance * Perform troubleshooting on service calls to existing and legacy system operators

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All JobsDistributed Control System Operator JobsDistributed Control System Operator Jobs in Ashburn, VA

Distributed Control System Operator information

See Ashburn, VA salary details

$12

$25

$39

How much do distributed control system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for distributed control system operator in Ashburn, VA is $25.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $28.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.
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Distributed Control System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Distributed Control System Operator job openings in Ashburn, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,403 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Lead Control Systems Engineer - DeltaV

RoviSys

Manassas, VA • On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Overview
Works directly with customers to define functional requirements and design, configure, commission and qualify DeltaV control systems.
Responsibilities
  • Work in team environment with engineers and designers from RoviSys, partners and clients to provide state of the art Control Systems to improve efficiency, product quality, and profitability of process manufacturing
  • Develop Life Cycle documents, Electrical panels, Control Architecture and wiring drawings per GMP standards
  • Redline P&ID documentation
  • Define and implement Delta-V distributed control system (DCS) configurations
  • Testing and on-site commissioning and qualification of control systems
  • Lead teams of engineers and technicians to provide control system solutions
  • Mentor less experienced engineers
  • Develop engineering standards to improve efficiency and accuracy of project execution
  • Provide technical sales support to RoviSys business development team

Qualifications
  • 2-10 years of experience in automation
  • Platforms: Emerson DeltaV
  • Thorough understanding of control system design and coding, including batch control
  • Self-motivated, excellent communication skills, and enjoy working with people
  • B.S. in Electrical, Computer, or Chemical Engineering or Engineering Technology
  • Hands-on experience with current Emerson DeltaV
  • Authorized to work in the U.S. without RoviSys sponsorship

Compensation & Benefits Highlights
  • Competitive Base Salary: $80,000-$130,000, depending on experience
  • Performance Bonuses: Bonus structure designed to reward results
  • Travel Perks: Travel incentives + per-diem packages for field assignments
  • Full Benefits Package: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Retirement Ready: 401(k) with company match
  • Time Off: Generous PTO which includes vacation, holidays, and unlimited personal time
  • Grow With Us:Ongoing training, certifications, and professional development support

Apply