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Distributed Control System Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

C&W Services

Control Systems Technician

Cicero, IL

... distribution systems * Monitor Material Handling Equipment (MHE) metrics and partner with other ... Utilize Operation System Assessment reports to improve material handling system reliability through ...

C&W Services

Control Systems Technician

Joliet, IL

... distribution systems * Monitor Material Handling Equipment (MHE) metrics and partner with Controls ... Utilize Operation System Assessment reports to improve material handling system reliability through ...

Ecolab

Sr Controls Engineer

Naperville, IL · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

... distribution, circuit protection, control power (24VDC), grounding, and wiring practices. * Integrate Siemens PLC systems with Building Management Systems (BMS) and Data Center Infrastructure ...

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All JobsDistributed Control System Operator JobsDistributed Control System Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Distributed Control System Operator information

See Chicago, IL 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 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 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.
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
Infographic showing various Distributed Control System Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,790 per year, or $25.4 per hour.
Instrumentation & Control Engineer III

Instrumentation & Control Engineer III

Zachry Group

Downers Grove, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago

Zachry Group rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

63rd of 79 rated construction

Job description


Zachry Engineering Corporation (ZEC) is currently accepting applications for an Engineer III I&C to join our I&C Department in Downers Grove, IL. This is a great opportunity to get involved on challenging and interesting design projects within various industries.
Responsibilities
  • Plans and conducts work requiring judgement in the independent evaluation, selection, and substantial adaptation and modifications of standard techniques, procedures and criteria. Devises new approaches to problems encountered, receives technical guidance on unusual or complex problems and supervisory approval on proposed plans for projects.
  • Assigned specific projects to complete, working as a fully competent engineer in all conventional aspects of the subject matter or the functional area of the assignment. Independently performs the assignment with instructions as to the general results expected. Employee is responsible for following project responsibilities as defined for the assigned project position.
  • Lead the production of instrumentation engineering/design deliverables, including Instrument Index, control systems (DCS and/or PLC) and Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS) Data Sheets and control design deliverables, including I/O list, Process Control Narratives.
  • Responsible for applying knowledge of commonly used I&C engineering/design concepts, principles, practices, codes, and procedures within the engineering services industry.
  • May supervise a few engineers or technicians on assigned work unless project requires a licensed Professional Engineer. May perform studies, preparation of specifications, evaluation of proposals, and development of estimates. May recommend for purchase of controls system components.
  • Maintains a thorough, current knowledge of new and innovative techniques in the controls engineering field. Is technically knowledgeable in specific areas of responsibility to the degree of preparing and providing training for other personnel
  • Practical knowledge of routine and precedent design and working knowledge of basic engineering principles for application in solving problems. Perform studies, preparation of specifications, evaluation of proposals, and development of estimates. May recommend for purchase controls system components.
  • Practical knowledge of routine and precedent design and working knowledge of basic engineering principles for application in solving problems. Perform studies, preparation of specifications, evaluation of proposals, and development of estimates. May recommend for purchase controls system components. Knowledge of engineering methods and practices in specific areas of responsibility to the degree of preparing and providing training for other personnel, both within the company and for the customer.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in an engineering discipline from an accredited engineering program
  • Strong background in instrument and control systems.
  • 6-10+ years of instrumentation and controls engineering experience.
  • Training and experience with distributed control systems (ABB, Emerson Ovation, Siemens T3000, MarkVIe, GE MicroNet).
  • Knowledge of control systems for gas boilers and turbines.
  • Values ethics, professionalism, and maintains confidentiality
  • Possesses advanced oral and written communication skills.
  • Comfortable working in a collaborative, transparent, teamwork-based culture
  • Proficient with Engineering and Computer Software (MS Office, AutoCAD, 2D &/or 3D CAD, BlueBeam, Revit, NavisWorks, etc.)
  • Ability to independently organize and prioritize work assignments and coordinate a variety of tasks, with good attention to detail and ability to deal with conflicting priorities and deadlines
  • Understanding, acceptance and adherence of company policies and procedures, including all business objectives and goals
  • Willingness to travel and work in office and field environments

Preferred Requirements
  • Licensed Professional Engineer

Physical Demands
Employee will be required to communicate in person, via telephone, email, use of arm/hand steadiness, manual dexterity, finger dexterity, multi limb coordination, oral expression, and comprehension. May be required to lift, carry and move objects safely.
Work Environment
Employee will work in multiple environments including an office, warehouse and in a trailer or building on construction sites. On construction sites, noise levels will be moderate to high. Job sites may contain the following: light to heavy equipment vehicles, small to large equipment, materials, communication equipment and tools, people standing, walking, sitting, signaling, and talking. Noise levels vary and may include bells, whistles, and alarms.
The above description covers the fundamental responsibilities of the I&C Engineer III position. It shall not be construed as a complete listing of all miscellaneous, incidental or similar duties which may be required from day-to-day.
Zachry Group is dedicated to providing a SAFE and Drug Free work environment; and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
This position Instrumentation & Control Engineer III is eligible for participation in Zachry's Total Employee Rewards Program, which includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, and other ancillary benefits. This position is also eligible for participation in the 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan.
In accordance with Illinois Equal Pay Act, the expected salary range for this Illinois position, I & C III is between $106,500 and $149,960, annually. Actual pay will be adjusted based on experience, geographic location, and other job-related factors as permitted by law.

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About Zachry Group

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Zachry Group is America's pacesetter in turnkey construction, engineering, maintenance, turnaround and fabrication services in the power, energy, chemicals, manufacturing and industrial sectors. It works with customers to plan, build, and renew their most critical facilities, so they can achieve their immediate and long-term goals, all at the highest safety standards. Zachry Group operates 35 offices, and averages 20,000 employees working in more than 400 locations nationwide. Please visit www.zachrygroup.com for more information.

Industry

Construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Antonio, TX, US

Year founded

1924

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