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Distributed Control System Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Tempus

Quality Control Technologist I-III

Chicago, IL

$23.25 - $28.50/hr

Update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and equipment records within the document control system, including drafting, revision, and review of internal SOPs and other quality documentation ...

Tempus

Quality Control Technologist I-III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23.25 - $28.50/hr

Update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and equipment records within the document control system, including drafting, revision, and review of internal SOPs and other quality documentation ...

Arkema

Shift Operator $28/hr. Job

Alsip, IL · On-site

$28/hr

Monitor process conditions, equipment and control systems. * Performs tasks assigned to operations ... Train peers in use of operating systems and procedures, and assists with procedure reviews if ...

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

Distributed Control System Operator information

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$12

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$39

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

As of Aug 17, 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 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?

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:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Distributed Control System Operator jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,790 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Senior I&C Engineer (Instrumentation and Controls)

Valdes Architecture & Engineering

Griffith, IN • On-site

$14K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities
  • Senior Engineers are expected to be leaders of projects and project teams and responsible for managing project man-hour budgets and scheduling of department man-hours
  • Strong technical skills and an ability to mentor and assist staff in all aspects of electrical design, including I&C specifications and selection
  • Supervise and monitor project staff ensuring that engineering packages are completed on time and within budget for the project they are responsible for
  • Ability to analyze, design and produce engineering packages for clients and prepare instrumentation specifications for purchase
  • Ability to establish and maintain good business relationships with key client contacts throughout the project
  • Extensive knowledge of required design codes and the knowledge to establish design criteria and ensure staff is following proper protocol
  • On-site interface with client engineering representative and other discipline engineers
  • Review, check and analyze design drawings prior to client submittals
  • Responsible for ensuring that documents produced by the team members follow both internal and client quality standards
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree or Higher in Electrical or Controls Engineering
  • 5-10 Years (or more) of experience working in a Power Generation, Distribution, Oil & Gas, Chemical, Pharmaceutical and/or Industrial engineering environment
  • Professional Engineering (PE) license preferred
  • Must possess exceptional interpersonal and organizational skills
  • Must be able to work in the US without sponsorship now or in the future
Technical Competencies
  • Low to medium voltage power distribution system design and layout
  • Instrumentation identification and installation package development as well as application design including data sheets, loop diagrams, wiring diagrams, instrument lists, input / output lists, and scope of work development.
  • Instrumentation skills including: reading or developing P&IDs , Instrument selection and specifications, control valve and primary element sizing, instrument loop diagrams, locations plans and installation details, and interconnection and wiring diagrams
  • Distributed Control System interface design experience
  • Electrical heat trace design
  • Development of wiring diagrams and schematics
$14,500 - $185,000 a year
Salaries for all positions are based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, total years of experience in the industry, education, skills, and qualifications. Compensation may vary depending on the candidate's individual background and expertise. Salaries are subject to fluctuation outside of the given range. The indicated range is not a commitment and meant as a guideline. All compensation, exempt or non-exempt status, and benefits will be discussed during the interview process.
Valdes Architecture & Engineering Company is looking for bright and talented people that want to take their career to the next level. We offer many rewarding career paths to challenge and engage our employees at all phases of their careers. Our office provides a team environment, and excellent working conditions, which allow individuals to maximize their potential. Valdes Architecture & Engineering offers an outstanding benefits package including Medical, Dental, 401K plan, Company paid Long Term and Short Term Disability Insurance, Company paid Life and AD&D Insurance, Pet Insurance, a discounted gym membership and tuition reimbursement.
EEO/AAE
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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