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Distributed Control System Operator Jobs in Federal Way, WA

Performing control tests to determine if landfill conveyance systems are operating correctly and effectively, such as measuring water flow and leachate/contaminated storm water extraction efficiency.

... operator and equipment safety in mind. * Manage budget, scope, schedule and proactively report ... control systems. * Understanding of Low Voltage Power Distribution System design. Working ...

Inventory Control Coordinator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21.50 - $27.25/hr

... around field/distributor inventory both physically and systematically, through monitoring ... How You'll Create Impact Uses Inventory systems such as SMS, ZSIS, DCS, Fed-ex programs to loan ...

Material Control Operator The Material Control Operator accurately maintains and reports inventory ... Enter accurate and timely data into the inventory management system to record material movements ...

... and distribution engineering teams. The role focuses on communication and control interfaces among substations, transmission systems, utilities, and control centers, including SCADA systems ...

Showing results 21-40

Distributed Control System Operator information

See Federal Way, WA salary details

$13

$27

$42

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for distributed control system operator in Federal Way, WA is $27.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.73 and $31.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 Federal Way, WA?

For Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Federal Way, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Distributed Control System Operator job openings in Federal Way, WA 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 $57,227 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Industrial Controls Systems Engineer - SCADA Administrator

Pierce County

Tacoma, WA • On-site, Remote

$106K - $155K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Pierce County (Washington) rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

220th of 848 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description Summary Why It's a Great Opportunity: In this role for the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) Administrator you will be responsible for the system administration needs of multiple utility SCADA systems at water and wastewater treatment facilities and their associated collection and distribution systems. You will coordinate and execute system updates, upgrades, and network communications across the utility industrial network. You will also coordinate with the Pierce County IT Department to ensure updates across the business and industrial networks are completed without service interruption.

Keeping the water and wastewater systems working for Pierce County residents is what this role is all about. Tour of the WWTP https://youtu.be/uXvDxaieS90 Tour the New Expansion https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJ83_KNfII8 Drone Footage of the Plant https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o1FbDOmENGY Why It's a Great Department: PPW stewards a healthy and vibrant community by collaboratively planning and investing in our people, infrastructure, systems, and policies. PPW's team has more than 800 members that collaborate, innovate and inspire in performing essential services to the community

The department is responsible for the County road and levee systems, sewer systems, airports, ferries, building permits, environmental review, sustainability, community planning, and code enforcement - just to name a few. Learn more about Planning and Public Works here. How to be Successful in the Role: Success in this role comes from being equally comfortable understanding the big picture and diving into the technical details needed to keep industrial control systems operating at their best.

You'll bring experience with SCADA systems, industrial networks, and operational technology, along with strong analytical and troubleshooting skills to diagnose issues and implement solutions. Curiosity, a continuous learning mindset, and the ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical partners will help you thrive. This role is focused on programming, configuring, troubleshooting, and improving systems rather than managing projects or overseeing the work of others.

Your Future in this Role: You will have access to professional development through robust online learning and other training opportunities throughout your career to ensure your success. This position has multiple career growth and promotional opportunities in Pierce County to build on a great career while directly impacting the communities in Pierce County. Core Daily Responsibilities: Administer and support utility wide SCADA system operation for the County's wastewater treatment facilities, water systems, and collection system.

Manage SCADA System expansions/updates/upgrades and coordinate SCADA network communications. Collaborate with engineers and system integrators on existing SCADA system needs as well as new design requirements. HMI/SCADA programming/design.

Understanding the diverse array of protocols utilized for transmitting, collecting, storing, and managing data within SCADA ecosystems. Provide troubleshooting and technical support in order to ensure that technology adheres to system development methodology and policies, procedures, laws and regulations. Perform emergency response and triage for Plant operations for all SCADA systems.

Maintain up to date documentation for technical processes, procedures and training materials for applications, databases, and systems. Work cross-functionally and effectively with the County's IT Department to ensure SCADA integrity and continuous operation of the utility industrial networks. A classification description with a more detailed list of essential functions can be found here.

Minimum Qualifications Additional education or experience which clearly indicates the ability to perform the essential functions of this position may substitute on a year for year basis. 5 years of Operational Technology (OT) Controls systems programming. Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer science, or related degree.

A valid Washington State driver's license is required. A resume and cover letter are required for this position. As a condition of employment, the applicant will need to authorize and complete a background check.

Information received from the background check is reviewed case-by-case and will not necessarily remove an applicant from consideration. Supplemental Information To be considered for this opportunity please: Complete and submit a detailed online Pierce County Employment Application by selecting "APPLY" above or go to: www.piercecountywa.org/jobs. If you have a question about this opportunity, please email the Recruitment Team at PCHRRecruit@piercecountywa.gov and specify the Job Number and Title

If you do not have internet access, you may visit your local public library or any WorkSource location and use their computers. Individuals needing accommodation in the application, testing process or need this job announcement in an alternative format may call Human Resources at (253) 798-7480, at least two days prior to the need. Our Recruitment Practices: This is a competitive and meritorious selection process.

Pierce County applications are reviewed by human hiring staff in accordance with the qualifications listed for the position. Pierce County understands applicants may use AI tools when preparing application materials. We recognize these tools can make the process easier; however, we ask that everything you submit genuinely reflects your own experience, skills, knowledge, and writing style.

During the interview process, you may be asked to demonstrate your skills, including writing and subject knowledge, and to speak to your experience in your own voice. Applicants should be prepared to respond to interview questions without relying on AI-generated responses or reading prepared answers from a screen. Any misrepresentation may result in disqualification or separation.

Applicants whose qualifications most closely align with the County's needs will be eligible for further consideration. Notification of application status typically occurs within two to three weeks after the closing date. Some applicants may receive short notice to participate in additional selection steps, which may include assessments, phone screens, or interviews.

Upon offer, compensation is based on a range of job-related factors, including the requirements of the role, your skills and experience, and internal pay equity. Our Welcoming Workplace Commitment: Pierce County is committed to fostering a Welcoming Workplace where employees are supported, respected, and able to thrive. We believe a strong public workforce is representative of the community it serves and that fair and just access to opportunity strengthens public service.

Guided by the County Executive's Forward Together mission, Pierce County works to build communities that are safe, welcoming, and connected. This same commitment shapes how we recruit, develop, and retain our employees. County employees make a direct and visible impact in the lives of residents every day, and we invite you to join us in helping keep Pierce County a place people are proud to call home.

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