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Distributed Control System Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

ComEd

Dist System Operator II

Joliet, IL · On-site

Control and operate the distribution system at various voltage levels. Span of control includes all ... Maintain operating log, interruption reports and associated records to accurately record system ...

ComEd

Sr Dist System Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

Follow established operating practices and procedures as they relate to customer restoration ... Control and operate the distribution system. Span of control includes all devices connected to the ...

ComEd

Dist System Operator I

Joliet, IL · On-site

Control and operate equipment on the primary electric distribution system. Respond to all ... Maintain operating log, interruption reports and associated records to accurately record system ...

Fermilab

Control System Hardware Engineer

Batavia, IL · On-site

$99.50K - $130.90K/yr

What your day-to-day as a Control System Hardware Engineer at Fermilab will look like: * Analyze ... Plan medium to large projects from inception to completion and brings them to operating status.

Argonne National Laboratory

ATLAS Operator

Lemont, IL · On-site

$29.75 - $46.41/hr

... distributed control systems * Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively with colleagues, users, and technical staff * Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage work ...

Argonne National Laboratory

ATLAS Operator

Lemont, IL

$29.75 - $46.41/hr

... distributed control systems * Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively with colleagues, users, and technical staff * Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage work ...

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

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for distributed control system operator in Chicago, IL is $25.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.05 and $28.70 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 Chicago, IL? For Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Distributed Control System Operator jobs near you
Dist System Operator II

Dist System Operator II

ComEd

Joliet, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

ComEd rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Who We Are
We're powering a cleaner, brighter future.
Exelon is leading the energy transformation, and we're calling all problem solvers, innovators, community builders and change makers. Work with us to deliver solutions that make our diverse cities and communities stronger, healthier and more resilient.
We're powered by purpose-driven people like you who believe in being inclusive and creative, and value safety, innovation, integrity and community service. We are a Fortune 200 company, 20,000 colleagues strong serving more than 10.7 million customers at six energy companies -- Atlantic City Electric (ACE), Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE), Commonwealth Edison (ComEd), Delmarva Power & Light (DPL), PECO Energy Company (PECO), and Potomac Electric Power Company (Pepco).
We're committed to creating an environment where every person can thrive. Our employee experience is grounded in four tenets that guide how we support our people: purposeful careers, growth opportunities, community impact, and support to thrive.
In our relentless pursuit of excellence, we elevate diverse voices, fresh perspectives and bold thinking. And since we know transforming the future of energy is hard work, we provide competitive compensation, incentives, excellent benefits and the opportunity to build a rewarding career.
Are you in?
Primary Purpose
Optimize the practices, policies, procedures and programs to operate the electric distribution system in a safe, reliable and efficient manner with the welfare of employees, customers, the public and shareholders in mind. Follow established operating practices and procedures as they relate to customer restoration, switching and operating for scheduled and emergent work. Manage real-time system alarm status and loading conditions. Perform system restoration during storms and emergency events. Perform the work of receiving, recording, routing, dispatching customer calls, information, orders, and emergency calls. Serve as the tagging authority by leading and directing the application of the safety tagging procedures. Execute line clearance orders by confirming and directing the placement of tags. Lead, direct and supervise associates in restoring customers and safely clearing and restoring equipment. Control and operate the distribution system at various voltage levels. Span of control includes all devices connected to the distribution system typically beginning with the circuit breaker at the substation. Respond to all electrical service interruptions involving distribution equipment referenced above. Respond to electrical service interruptions up to and including Power Quality, Part Out and All Out categories at various voltage levels. Perform electrical switching on a planned, emergent and emergency basis on the distribution system. Maintain system voltages as well as line and equipment loadings within acceptable limits. Maintain and apply a working knowledge of the Exelon Management Model for business controls and meet management's expectation for conducting effective business.
Position requires the ability to work extended hours, rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays and overtime on regularly scheduled days off to support operations for coverage during storms or other energy delivery emergencies.
Primary Duties
  • Follow established policies, procedures and guidelines on distribution system operations. Maintain the system integrity, reliability and security of the distribution system in a safe, reliable and efficient manner.
  • Gather and analyze system data to determine the feasibility of switching requests. Verify the safe and efficient operation of the electrical system.
  • Compile switching routines within system loading and system configuration parameters and provide guidelines to ensure proper clearance for switching requests. Develop and provide emergency switching plans based on last contingencies
  • Direct and supervise all electrical switching, placement of safety tags and testing activities on the system in a safe, reliable and efficient manner.
  • Notify and direct appropriate personnel including but not limited to Operating, Construction, Customer and Contractor Personnel, as may be needed to take the necessary actions associated with outages, equipment failure, emergencies and various events on the distribution system.
  • Maintain system voltages, line and equipment loadings within acceptable limits
  • Keep supervisors informed of abnormal system conditions, major customer outages and equipment related problems
  • Maintain current system status information on SCADA displays, operating maps and switching routines. Interface with mapping and monitor the accuracy of new maps issued for project diagram and other related work.
  • Maintain operating log, interruption reports and associated records to accurately record system status and sequence of events.

Job Scope
  • Functional control over various operating, construction, testing, customer and contractor groups in the performance of electrical switching, repair, testing and related work activities involving lines, transformers, and other equipment under the jurisdiction of the Distribution System Operator. The different groups include Distribution System Operations Field Operations, Aerial and Underground Construction and Maintenance, Transmission and Substation,
  • The consequences of operating errors or improper system operation could cost the company millions of dollars in direct, indirect and intangible costs such as the loss of customer good will, damaged company equipment, damaged customer equipment and damage to the company's public image.
  • Independent judgment is essential in making the real time decisions necessary to maintain the integrity, reliability and security of the Exelon Utilities distribution system.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Meet job requirements of Distributed System Operator 1 job requirements AND have at last 6 months Distributor System Operator 1 equivalent experience
  • Ability and willingness to progress to higher Distribution System Operator job classifications.
  • Ability to sit and stand for extended periods of time. Must have the ability to differentiate between and recognize specific colors on computer schematics that relay important system configuration information.
  • Thorough understanding of the Exelon Utilities distribution system, the ability to recognize system configuration and loading issues, ability to formulate contingency plans and thorough knowledge and understanding of proper operating procedures obtained through successful completion of formal OCC training
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Demonstrated analytical skills and judgment
  • Demonstrated ability to respond to emergencies and manage stressful situations
  • Ability to work shift work
  • Candidate must receive a "Recommended" result on the System Operator / Power Dispatch (SOPD) test to be eligible for consideration

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in engineering, technology, math, or business, with a heavy technology curriculum.

Benefits
  • Annual salary will vary based on a candidate's skills, qualifications, experience, and other factors: $84,000.00/Yr. - $115,500.00/Yr.
  • Annual Bonus for eligible positions: 10%
  • 401(k) match and annual company contribution
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Generous paid time off options, including vacation, sick time, floating and fixed holidays, maternity leave and bonding/primary caregiver leave or parental leave
  • Employee Assistance Program and resources for mental and emotional support
  • Wellbeing programs such as tuition reimbursement, adoption and surrogacy assistance and fitness reimbursement
  • Referral bonus program
  • And much more

Note: Exelon-sponsored compensation and benefit programs may vary or not apply based on length of service, job grade, job classification or represented status. Eligibility will be determined by the written plan or program documents.

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About ComEd

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ComEd began as the Western Edison Light Company, one of several companies owned by inventor and researcher Thomas Edison. In July 1892, another Edison employee moved to Chicago to run Edison's local company, Chicago Edison. Sam Insull had a sharp business mind and eagerly increased his knowledge of electricity. Through improved marketing and increased demand for electric lighting, Commonwealth Edison was born in September 1907. ComEd is a unit of Chicago-based Exelon Corporation, a Fortune 100 energy company with approximately 10 million electricity and natural gas customers. ComEd powers the lives of more than 4 million customers across northern Illinois, or 70 percent of the state’s population. ComEd's service territory borders Iroquois County to the south (roughly Interstate 80), the Wisconsin border to the north, the Iowa border to the west and the Indiana border to the east.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1907

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