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Distributed Control System Operator Jobs in Charlotte, NC

Control Engineer 2

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$81.60K - $105.50K/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 ...

Control Engineer 3

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$81.60K - $105.50K/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 ...

Control Engineer 1

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$81.60K - $105.50K/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

Controls and Automation Engineer

Chester, SC · On-site

$84K - $111.20K/yr

Modicon PLC systems Siemens PCS7 Distributed Control System Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation) PLC Platforms (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, etc.) --- Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in ...

Initiates changes to plant Batch Operating Procedures (BOP's), new raw materials (both alternate supplier and new chemicals to the plant), and plant distributed control system (DCS) recipes. Ensure ...

Initiates changes to plant Batch Operating Procedures (BOP's), new raw materials (both alternate supplier and new chemicals to the plant), and plant distributed control system (DCS) recipes. Ensure ...

... distribution, key code access validation, alarm signoff, etc. Conduct planned and unplanned ... Manages multiple electronic access control systems tomonitorand facilitate response for automated ...

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Distributed Control System Operator information

See Charlotte, NC salary details

$11

$24

$37

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

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for distributed control system operator in Charlotte, NC is $24.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $27.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Charlotte, NC? For Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Charlotte, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Charlotte, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Charlotte, NC are:
What cities near Charlotte, NC are hiring for Distributed Control System Operator jobs? Cities near Charlotte, NC with the most Distributed Control System Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Distributed Control System Operator job openings in Charlotte, NC as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,052 per year, or $24.1 per hour.
Control Systems Engineer (Water/Industrial)

Control Systems Engineer (Water/Industrial)

HDR

Charlotte, NC • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago


HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 350 rated engineering


Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we work to weave diversity, equity, and inclusion into our work and foster a sense of belonging throughout the company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story' 
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.

We believe building engineering is more than systems and structures, it's about powering progress and enabling innovation. As part of HDR's Building Engineering Services Group, you'll help design the critical infrastructure that supports the digital age and shapes the spaces where people work, connect, and thrive. From high-performance data centers driving the future of AI to dynamic commercial environments, your work will directly support technological advancement, sustainability, and human experience. We bring together mechanical, electrical, structural, and civil engineering experts to solve complex design challenges with precision, creativity, and collaboration. Whether you're optimizing energy efficiency, integrating resilient systems, or engineering the backbone of next-generation facilities, your contributions will help define the future of the built environment. This isn't just a job, it's a chance to lead innovation, engineer impact, and build a legacy of excellence.

HDR is looking for a Control Systems Engineer to support our global Control Systems practice which includes full-service capabilities. Our practice provides assessment, planning, design, automation programming/configuration, testing & commissioning, and maintenance for control systems in multiple industries. The primary role of this position is to support the planning, design, and implementation of automated industrial control systems in coordination with clients and multidiscipline teams to develop solutions for construction and implementation in multiple market sectors including, food & beverage; general industrial; oil & gas; logistics, manufacturing; mining; transportation; and water/wastewater. In this role, the Control Systems Engineer will work under the direction of a Senior Control Systems Engineer to design complex industrial control and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, assisting with the evaluation and selection of equipment and system components. They will be responsible for creating biddable and technically accurate construction documents including drawings and specifications. They must be self-motivated with an initiative to deliver high quality, technically excellent control system designs. 

Primary responsibilities and duties include:

  • Travel to client facilities to participate in field activities to assess and document the current state of installed control systems
  • Participate in design review and planning meetings with the client
  • Participate in the development of preliminary engineering reports and studies focused on recommending and developing solutions for control               system improvements
  • Interface with electrical and process engineers to coordinate design requirements for network, power, control, and instrumentation
  • Assist with the selection and specification of process instrumentation, control panels, and network equipment.
  • Assist with the development of biddable and technically accurate SCADA / I&C construction documents including P&IDs, network architecture             diagrams, control panel layouts and wiring diagrams, installation details, loop drawings, and technical specifications
  • Utilize CADD software including AutoDesk AutoCAD products to develop and review construction documents
  • Assist with system testing and commissioning activities

Growth opportunities:

  • Exposure to multiple market sectors and core services of our global control systems program
  • Training and development to build skillset to serve as market sector and core service subject matter expert (SME)
  • Serve as Engineer of Record in responsible charge for the development of biddable and technically accurate control system construction                     documents
  • Active participation in industry professional societies, trade shows, and conferences
  • Advancement to Senior Control Systems Engineer

Preferred Qualifications

  • Minimum of 5 years of applicable experience
  • Hands on experience designing instrumentation and control systems, including P&IDs, control schematics, and loops required
  • Must be knowledgeable of network, PLC, DCS, or DDC hardware and software
  • Must be knowledgeable of SCADA/HMI software and capabilities
  • Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) programming and configuration a plus
  • Distributed Control System (DCS) programming and configuration a plus
  • SCADA HMI programming and configuration a plus
  • Network design experience for industrial control or SCADA systems a plus
  • Demonstrated knowledge of remote site telemetry communications a plus
  • Demonstrated knowledge of cybersecurity considerations for industrial control or SCADA systems a plus
  • Experience in food & beverage, oil & gas, general industrial, mining, manufacturing, or logistics a plus
  • Local candidates are preferred
  • *LI-SM1
 
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or related field.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license
  • PLC/WTP and WWTP software programming experience
  • Hands-on experience designing SCADA systems, including schematics and loops
  • Experience managing control systems projects
  • Knowledge of automation hardware including but not limitied to Allen-Bradley, Emerson, Foxboro, Modicon, Siemens, and GE.
  • Knowledge of automation software including but not limited to Wonderware, iFix, FacotryTalk, VTScada, Ignition
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office products
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.


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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917