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Distributed Control System Operator Jobs in Ashburn, VA

TAMKO

Controls Hardware Engineer

Frederick, MD

$77K - $100K/yr

... systems; and motion control systems. * Operating knowledge and use of AutoCAD. * Experience ... Experience with power distribution systems. Physical Requirements/Work Environment The physical ...

Amentum

BAS Operator/Controls Tech

Springfield, VA · On-site

$49.12/hr

Amentum is looking for a BAS Operator/Controls Technician to join our team in Springfield, VA to ... This type of work involves most of the following: diagnosing control system concerns and ensuring ...

Pae

BAS Operator/Controls Tech

Springfield, VA

$49.12/hr

Amentum is looking for a BAS Operator/Controls Technician to join our team in Springfield, VA to ... This type of work involves most of the following: diagnosing control system concerns and ensuring ...

KeenLogic

Master Control Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

Master Control Operator KeenLogic is seeking a Master Control Operator to support one of our ... Operate and maintain closed-circuit television and IPTV distribution systems over fiber and media ...

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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 6, 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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What cities near Ashburn, VA are hiring for Distributed Control System Operator jobs? Cities near Ashburn, VA with the most Distributed Control System Operator job openings:
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, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. 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.
Control System Designer, Data Centers - Remote (U.S.)

Control System Designer, Data Centers - Remote (U.S.)

AECOM

Arlington, VA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

AECOM rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 79 rated construction

Job description

Company Description
Work with Us. Change the World.
At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world's most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.
There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.
We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.
Job Description
AECOM is actively seeking a highly motivated Data Center Control System Designer to join our Buildings and Places (B+P) group in our Arlington, VA office; however, this position can be fully Remote. This position will design state-of-the-art automation and SCADA systems for mechanical and electrical systems for complex data center and mission critical infrastructure projects across the globe.
This position offers the flexibility of a remote work schedule and can be based from a variety of locations in the US where AECOM has an office.
Although the position is primarily remote periodic travel may be required for client meetings, key project milestones, onsite collaboration sessions, or other business-critical activities. Travel is expected to be occasional and scheduled in advance
AECOM is a leader in the global data center consulting industry with robust teams in the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. In this role, you will have the opportunity to work with our teams around the world on high-profile, fast-paced data center projects for global clients. This is a hands-on, client-facing role with an opportunity for upward career mobility.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Coordinate with mechanical design team to develop control sequences, diagrams, and points lists for mechanical systems serving both building and process systems.
  • Coordinate with electrical design team on the development of network architectures and points lists for electrical distribution and conditioning systems.
  • Coordinate with Information and Communications Technology (ICT) design team to coordinate structured ethernet cabling interfaces to control panels and end devices.
  • Design resilient operational technology (OT) networks for control systems including both ethernet and serial networks utilizing various media (wireless, fiber, copper).
  • Develop basis of design (BOD) for building automation system (BAS), programmable logic controllers (PLC) and power monitoring system (PMS) controllers, instrumentation and software including datasheets.
  • Develop and tailor division 23 and 25 controls, instrumentation, and cyber security technical specifications in alignment with BOD.
  • Develop and tailor division 26 power monitoring specifications including coordination with electrical team for specification of factory-mounted systems on distribution equipment for compatibility.
  • Familiar with modern control system protocols for BAS, EPMS, & PLC - i.e. Modbus, BACnet, EtherNet/IP, etc., along with proper applications and network requirements for specification.
  • Verify compliance with applicable US codes and engineering standards/practices.
  • Ability to work with templated models for system deployment, tracking and justifying all changes from client's models.
  • Coordinate with other disciplines as needed for a cohesive and well-coordinated design.
  • Work flexible hours to attend project meetings/calls
  • Be detail-oriented and technical yet experienced enough to see the big picture.
  • Schedule and meet budget expectations.
  • Multi-task and be flexible, along with ability to adapt to project deadlines.
  • Have passion and enthusiasm for design in a collaborative and progressive team-oriented work environment.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree with 6 plus years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and or education.
  • Four years of work experience as an Instrumentation and Control Engineer (I&C) Engineer or controls contractor creating controls submittals.
  • Experience with BAS & PLC control system platforms.
  • Experience with Electrical Power Monitoring Systems (PMS/EPMS)

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree Technology, Electrical, Mechanical or equivalent
  • Demonstrated experience with colocation and hyperscale data center projects.
  • Experience with US codes and standards.
  • Experience with data center or other mission critical environments
  • Experience with Operational Technology Networks
  • Experience with SCADA platforms and specifying technical cybersecurity requirements

Additional Information
  • Relocation is not available for this role
  • Sponsorship is not available for this role

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.
About AECOM
AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.
AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients' complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle - from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com.
What makes AECOM a great place to work
You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you'll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you've always envisioned. Here, you'll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community-where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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